Residents and visitors to Weymouth Dorset will have the chance to travel back in time to the Spanish Armada this coming weekend.
Spanish Galleon El Galeon arrives in Weymouth.
The El Galeon, a replica Spanish Galleon of the period, will be open to visitors for the next few days.
It will be based in Weymouth Harbour. With public access this weekend. It is scheduled to leave Dorset Harbor on Monday.
El Galeon is a little less than 50 meters away. It is an exact full-size replica of a 17th century Spanish galleon from the 1600s.
This type of ships was used by the Spaniards for sea campaigns. Also trading in Spain, America and the Far East as far as the Philippines.
El Galleon arrives at Weymouth.
This unique tall ship. There is also a floating museum and belongs to the Nao Victoria Foundation of Spain.
Ships of this type were mostly warships. But also huge merchant ships that could carry more than 1200 tons of cargo. Plus a crew of 150 at a time with their merchants, servants, families and animals.
El Galeon has six decks and has about eight miles of rope to run its 9,000 square feet of sails.
Galleon El Galeon Very modern
The ship was launched in 2009 in Huelva, Spain. Since then, she has sailed more than 70,000 miles, visiting many major ports around the world.
A large crowd awaited the El Galleon at Weymouth on the edge of the harbour.
Made of iroko, pine and beech. Plus it’s now reinforced to ensure the 500-year-old design meets all 21st century regulations for safety under sail.
Those who want to look at this unique tall ship of hers and see her up close can climb aboard. However, you will be required to purchase tickets on board.
El Galleon will be moored at the Visitors Pontoon in Weymouth Harbour. It will be open May 18-21 weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for families and can be bought at the port or via www.velacuadra.es.