A full-size replica of a 17th-century Spanish tall ship is set to sail into Weymouth next week. 

The Galeón Andalucía will visit Weymouth from Thursday, August 29 (arriving no later than 4pm) and will stay in town until 8pm on Monday, September 2.

It will be berthed at Weymouth Harbour and the public will be given a rare opportunity to climb aboard the huge ship.

The Spanish tall ship also visited Weymouth for two days in May last year.

The Galeon Andalucia measures 160ft in length and is a 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.

Galeón AndalucíaGaleón Andalucía (Image: Poole BID)

It took three years of research before a 17-month construction project could begin on the replica. 

Since it was first launched in November 2009, a crew of 15 to 35 people have manned her across the seas and oceans around the world.

The tall ship has crossed the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea and the Caribbean Sea.

Four masts hold six sails which measure almost 11,000 square feet. The average speed of the ship is around seven knots.

Converted into a floating museum, the vessel offers a unique space for a diversity of events, as well as an interpretive centre dedicated to galleons.

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free to wander its decks, talk to actual crew members and view dozens of interactive exhibits, videos, projections and historical documents.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 £12 for adults, £6 for children and £30 for families (two adults and up to 3 children between 5-10 years) and can be bought at the harbour or via www.velacuadra.es (website in Spanish).