A replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship is set to arrive in Shoreham for the first time.
The Nao Santa María will be docked at Shoreham Port from July 1 to 12, where it will be open to the public for tours.
The historic vessel is a faithful replica of the ship used by Columbus during his 1492 voyage and is visiting Shoreham as part of its 2026 European tour.
Organisers say the ship is more than just a vessel, describing it as a floating museum and an ambassador for the maritime, cultural and tourism heritage of the Province of Huelva in Spain.
The Nao Santa María was built in 2018 by the Fundación Nao Victoria to mark the 525th anniversary of the Encounter between Two Worlds.
The 200-ton ship was constructed by master shipwrights in Punta Umbría, in Huelva, using iroko and pine wood. It was built using historical records to help ensure its design reflects the original 15th-century ship as closely as possible.
During its stay at Shoreham Port, visitors will be able to explore the ship’s interior, learn about life on board during the 15th century and discover more about the great oceanic expeditions of the age of exploration.
The experience is aimed at visitors of all ages, as well as schools and associations wishing to book organised group visits.
Tours will be available daily from 10am to 8pm throughout the ship’s stay in Shoreham.
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