Historic Galleon El Galeón Andalucía Docks in Fishguard Harbour

A remarkable 17th-century replica, the El Galeón Andalucía, is set to arrive at Fishguard Harbour in North Pembrokeshire on October 8, 2023. This significant maritime event allows the public to explore the intricacies of a historical vessel that played a vital role in Spain’s maritime trade. The ship’s visit follows a previously scheduled stop that was cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Docking on October 8, El Galeón Andalucía will be accessible for public tours from October 9 to October 12. After this four-day event, the ship will continue its journey on October 13. This visit not only highlights the town’s maritime heritage but also underscores the efforts of local community members who worked diligently to secure the galleon’s return.

A Vessel of Historical Significance

El Galeón Andalucía is an impressive 55 metres long, constructed from iroko and pine wood, and features seven sails spanning nearly 1,000 square metres. This galleon offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with history, immersing them in the maritime world of the Age of Discovery. According to Sailing Ships Maine, galleons were crucial for establishing trade routes for the Spanish Crown between the 16th and 18th centuries, connecting Spain with the Americas and the Philippines.

The ship serves as a floating museum, with five decks available for exploration from 10:00 to 20:00. Visitors can experience the working life of sailors who navigated the oceans aboard these impressive vessels. The local community is particularly excited about this visit, viewing it as a celebration of their shared maritime history.

Community Efforts and Cultural Events

Local leaders have expressed their enthusiasm for the galleon’s arrival. Jeremy Martineau, Honorary Secretary of North Pembrokeshire Trade and Tourism, stated, “We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming El Galeón Andalucía to Fishguard Harbour this October. The remarkable ship is not only a striking reminder of our shared maritime history but also a wonderful opportunity to showcase North Pembrokeshire to visitors from near and far.”

The timing of this visit coincides with the Fishguard Bay Food Festival, which runs concurrently, enhancing the cultural experience for attendees. First launched in 2023 by the Fishguard Bay Sustainable Food Initiative, the festival focuses on sustainable and locally produced food, featuring workshops, cooking demonstrations, and performances. This year marks the festival’s second edition, promising a weekend filled with food and entertainment.

Tickets for El Galeón Andalucía are priced at £12 for adults and £6 for children over the age of six. Children aged five and under can enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased online or on board the ship, which also allows entry to the food festival for an additional £2. For further information, interested parties can contact Jeremy Martineau via email at [email protected].

This unique convergence of maritime history and local culture is poised to attract visitors, making it a noteworthy event for Fishguard and the wider Pembrokeshire community.