The Galeón Andalucía docks at Gravesend Town Pier
Published: 14:30, 10 September 2024
Updated: 10:49, 11 September 2024
An impressive replica of a historic Spanish ship has docked at its second Kent pier this year.
The Galeón Andalucía, which is based on vessels which sailed between the 16th and 18th centuries, has moored at Gravesend Town Pier.
The Spanish Galleons were boats which led the trade and cultural routes between Spain, America and the Philippines.
They were designed to cross the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and carry 150 people aboard including officers, crew, merchants and other passengers.
Known as the Fleet of Indies, they covered the longest routes in history in terms of length and duration.
The 48m replica was built in 2009 by the non-profit organisation the Nao Victoria Foundation and was launched on November 30 that same year.
It covered more than 48,000 nautical miles in its first six years travelling across the globe and docking at hundreds of ports.
The floating museum allows guests to explore its five decks and learn about historic ships, the seas and coasts they travelled and what life was like onboard.
It was seen sailing along the River Thames today (September 10) as it came in to moor at Gravesend.
It will be open to visitors from tomorrow (September 11) until Sunday, September 22 at Gravesend Town Pier between 10am and 8pm.
Tickets cost £12 for adults, £6 for children aged five to 10 years old, and £30 for families of two adults and up to three children.
The ship replica was previously docked at Ramsgate Harbour’s Commercial Quay in July.
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Alex Langridge