A rare opportunity to explore one of the most legendary vessels in maritime history is coming to a Kent marina.
The Nao Victoria, a stunning full-scale replica of the 16th-century ship that completed Ferdinand Magellan’s maiden expedition around the world, will be docked at Chatham Maritime, from July 30 to August 4
The ship will be opened to visitors at Basin 1 from tomorrow (July 31) to Sunday, August 3, between 10am and 8pm daily.
Commanded by Juan Sebastián Elcano, the original ship set sail from Seville in 1519 and returned in 1522 after making history as the first vessel to sail around the world.
This faithful replica, built in Spain in 1991 after years of research, is based on 16th-century nautical records, drawings and chronicles.
It matches the original’s shape, sails and equipment, offering visitors a true sense of life at sea 500 years ago.
In 2004, the Nao Victoria made her own global journey, sailing 26,894 miles and visiting 17 countries, the first historical replica ever to complete a round-the-world voyage.
Since then, she’s travelled across Europe, the USA and beyond, with more than 6 million visitors stepping aboard to explore this floating ambassador of Spanish history.
Guests will be able to explore three wooden decks, visit the captain’s quarters, and speak to the crew who live and work aboard as the ship tours the world.
An opening ceremony will take place tomorrow at 10am, hosted by Chatham Maritime Trust and attended by the mayor and local dignitaries.
