A stunning full size replica of a 17th century Spanish tall ship is set to sail into Weymouth later this month.
The El Galeon vessel will arrive in Weymouth no later than 4pm on Thursday, May 18 and will stay in the town until no later than 10pm on Monday, May 22.
It will be berthed at Weymouth Harbour, with the public given a rare opportunity to climb aboard the fascinating ship.
Traffic on the water will be monitored during the tall ship's visit and mariners are asked to give El Galeon a 'wide berth' in confined waters around the harbour.
El Galeon measures 49.4m in length and is an exact full size replica of a 17th century Spanish Galleon ship from the 1600s, used by the Spanish in maritime expeditions and trade between Spain, America and the Philippines.
The unique tall ship, which is also a floating museum and owned by the Nao Victoria Foundation in Spain, was dedicated to the export of fruits, salt and general cargo, both in Mediterranean ports and anchorages, as well as on the north and west coast of Africa.
These vessels were fighting ships and massive trading vessels that could carry more than 1,200 tons of cargo whilst accommodating 150 crew plus merchants, servants, families and animals.
El Galeon, boasting six decks and eight miles of rope to handle its 9,000 square feet of sails, was launched in 2009 at Huelva in Spain and has sailed more than 70,000 miles visiting major ports around the world.
The entire timber structure used iroko, pine and beech, reinforced using a new technique to ensure the 500-year-old design meets all 21st-century regulations to safely sail.
Those wishing to catch a glimpse of the tall ship up close and climb aboard are required to purchase tickets and head to the Visitors Pontoon at Weymouth Harbour, which will be open from 10am-8pm from May 18-21.
El Galeon is on a tour of the region and its arrival into the Dorset town is set to transport the harbour back in time.
A self-guided walking tour is available of the vessel and once on board, visitors are free to wander its decks, talk to actual crew members and view dozens of interactive exhibits, videos, projections and historical documents. Photos are also allowed.
Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for families and can be bought at the pier or via www.velacuadra.es (website in Spanish).
Weymouth Harbour master Ed Carter said: "During arrival and departure, a harbour patrol vessel will be in place to monitor vessel traffic and safety during these times.
"Mariners are requested to give El Galeon a wide berth in the confined waters of the outer harbour and harbour entrance, especially during berthing manoeuvres."
More information can be found on the tall ship by visiting www.love-weymouth.co.uk/events/weymouth/history-heritage/visit-the-tallship-el-galeon/
To see the tall ship on the water, take a look at the YouTube video below:
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