A striking full-scale replica of the first ship to sail around the world will dock in Plymouth, offering visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the golden age of exploration.
UPDATE 28-05-2025: The Dates have changed to Friday 30th May to June 1st
The Nao Victoria, a painstaking recreation of the 16th-century vessel that achieved the world’s first circumnavigation, will be moored at the Barbican Landing Stage from Friday 30th May to June 1st
Built in Spain for the 1992 World Expo in Seville, the replica has itself sailed thousands of nautical miles and now functions as a floating museum, drawing thousands of visitors at ports across Europe and the Americas.
The original Nao Victoria set sail from Seville in 1519 as part of Ferdinand Magellan’s fleet. Though Magellan himself did not survive the journey, the Victoria returned home three years later under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano, completing an unprecedented voyage that rewrote the map of the world.
Now, more than 500 years later, the replica is complete with four decks, towering masts and 290 square metres of sail and offers a rare glimpse into the formidable life of 16th-century sailors.
Captain Richard Allan, CEO and Harbour Master at Cattewater Harbour, said Plymouth was the ideal city to host the ship:
“We’re looking forward to welcoming the Nao Victoria and her crew to Plymouth next week. Hosting such a historically significant vessel underscores our city’s rich maritime heritage and offers a unique experience for both residents and visitors alike.
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The Barbican Landing Stage is one of the most accessible and versatile berthing facilities in the South West — situated in the heart of Plymouth’s historic quarter. It’s the perfect platform to showcase such an iconic ship, and we’re proud to support events that bring our waterfront to life.”
Visitors will be able to explore the ship’s decks and interact with crew members in period dress, who will be on hand to explain how early explorers navigated vast and unknown oceans without the benefit of modern technology.
Interactive displays on board will shed light on the realities of life at sea during the Age of Discovery, from long voyages and limited provisions to celestial navigation and the dangers of the open ocean.
Tickets for onboard visits can be purchased in advance through the Nao Victoria Foundation’s official website or at the entrance to the Barbican Landing Stage during the ship’s stay.
https://tickets.fundacionnaovictoria.org/content
