Historical Spanish ship docked in Torquay

A faithful replica of a historical Spanish ship is docked at Haldon Pier in Torquay harbour until June 15, with opening hours from 10am to 8pm.

The Nao Victoria is a famous Spanish vessel once captained by Ferdinand Magellan and Juan Sebastián Elcano during the first circumnavigation of the globe, completed over five centuries ago between 1519 and 1522.

During its stay in Torquay, the public will have the unique opportunity to board the ship, walk its decks, and experience the remarkable journey its sailors undertook more than 500 years ago.

Built from oak and pine using traditional shipbuilding techniques and historical accuracy, the Nao Victoria is regarded as a “true masterpiece of Spanish naval carpentry”.

Between 2004 and 2006, it completed a modern voyage around the world, sailing over 26,000 nautical miles and making port in 17 countries. Since then, it has continued sailing across the globe, visiting over 100 ports in the United States and Europe, and welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors as a floating museum.

Torquay is one of the UK ports on its European tour this year, which includes ports of call in Spain, France, the Netherlands and Germany. Throughout this tour, the Nao Victoria will take part in festivals and international events, serving to represent Spain’s rich maritime heritage.

Tickets are available online at tickets.naovictoria.org