Replica of first ship to circumnavigate the world to dock in St Peter Port for public visit
- Replica of the first ship to circumnavigate the world will dock in St Peter Port between 7 and 20 September
- Self-guided tours will be available on select dates between 10am and 8pm at the Cruise Tenders Pontoon on Albert Pier
- The original Nao Victoria completed the world's first circumnavigation between 1519 and 1522 under Juan Sebastián Elcano
- The replica was built in 1992 in Seville and completed its own circumnavigation between 2004 and 2006, visiting 17 countries
- Tickets are available through the Nao Victoria Foundation's website at www.fundacionnaovictoria.org
A replica of the first ship to circumnavigate the world will dock in St Peter Port this month, offering the public the chance to step aboard a piece of maritime history.
The Nao Victoria, a faithful recreation of the 16th-century vessel that completed the world's first circumnavigation, will be moored at the Cruise Tenders Pontoon on Albert Pier between Monday 7 September and Sunday 20 September.
The floating museum will open its decks for self-guided tours on 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 19 September, with visits available between 10am and 8pm. The tours are being organised by the Nao Victoria Foundation, which operates the replica vessel.
Tickets for the tours are available through the foundation's website at www.fundacionnaovictoria.org.
The original Nao Victoria holds a unique place in maritime history. Between 1519 and 1522, the vessel completed the first circumnavigation of the globe under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano. After three years at sea, a crew of 18 men became the first to cross the oceans and reveal the true size of the Earth.
The replica was constructed in 1992 in Seville, the capital of the autonomous community of Andalusia in Spain and the original vessel's port of origin.
The recreation has itself achieved a remarkable feat, completing its own circumnavigation of the globe between 2004 and 2006. During that journey, it sailed 26,894 nautical miles and visited 17 countries across five continents.
The vessel has generated significant public interest at ports across Europe. Earlier this year, it appeared at the Jersey Boat Show, and its visit to Guernsey represents another opportunity for Channel Islands residents to experience this piece of maritime heritage.
James Way, harbourmaster at Guernsey Ports, welcomed the vessel's arrival.
"The Nao Victoria promises to be a striking addition to Guernsey harbour and an exciting attraction for the public during her stay," he said.
"Opportunities to host the replica of a vessel of such historical significance are rare, and her visit will provide islanders and visitors alike with a unique chance to experience a fascinating piece of maritime history."
Mr Way emphasised the importance of the visit for the island community.
"As an island community with a strong connection to the sea, Guernsey has always valued its maritime heritage, and we are pleased to support initiatives that bring that heritage to life in an engaging and accessible way," he said.
The Nao Victoria Foundation operates the vessel as an educational and cultural project, allowing visitors to experience the conditions faced by 16th-century sailors and learn about one of the most significant voyages in human history.
Q&A
Q: When will the Nao Victoria be available for public tours in St Peter Port?
A: The vessel will be open for self-guided tours on 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 19 September between 10am and 8pm at the Cruise Tenders Pontoon on Albert Pier.
Q: What is the historical significance of the original Nao Victoria?
A: The original Nao Victoria was the first ship to circumnavigate the globe between 1519 and 1522. Under Juan Sebastián Elcano's command, a crew of 18 men became the first to cross the oceans and reveal the true size of the Earth after three years at sea.
Q: How can people book tickets to visit the replica vessel?
A: Tickets are available through the Nao Victoria Foundation's website at www.fundacionnaovictoria.org.
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