El Galeón Andalucía, a replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, will dock in Fishguard Harbour for a highly anticipated visit
A stunning spectacle is set to dock at Fishguard Harbour this month(Image: Portland Press Herald, Portland Press Herald via Getty Images)
A Welsh coastal town is set to welcome a maritime visitor this October as El Galeón Andalucía, a faithful replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, sails into Fishguard Harbour. The arrival marks a significant moment for the North Pembrokeshire town, after it’s last visit had to be cancelled due to poor weather.
Docking at Fishguard Harbour on Wednesday October 8, the grand vessel will be open for public tours from Thursday, 9 through Sunday October, 12 before continuing its journey on Monday, 13.
According to Sailing Ships Maine, these kind of vessels were employed by the Spanish Crown for sea voyages from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The website states: “Galleons were intended to discover and then establish trade routes between Spain, America and the Philippines islands, and formed what was then called the ‘Fleet of the Indies’.”
At 55 metres long, constructed from iroko and pine wood, and carrying seven sails across nearly 1,000 square metres, El Galeón is a striking sight. Built with close attention to historical detail, the vessel is a floating museum that offers visitors a chance to step back into the maritime world of the Age of Discovery.
Five decks are open for exploration from 10am to 8pm, offering insight into the working life of sailors who once crossed oceans in ships just like this.
This visit is more than a spectacle. For many in the community, it’s the culmination of considerable behind-the-scenes effort. Jeremy Martineau, Honorary Secretary of North Pembrokeshire Trade and Tourism, was among those instrumental in bringing the ship to the area.
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“We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming El Galeón Andalucía to Fishguard Harbour this October,” he said. “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. After the disappointment of a cancelled visit, securing her return feels especially rewarding.”
The timing of the visit is particularly apt, coinciding with the Fishguard Bay Food Festival, which returns for its second year. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
First launched in 2023 by Fishguard Bay Sustainable Food Initiative, the Food Festival has quickly become a notable fixture in the town’s calendar. Centred around sustainable and locally produced food, it brings together producers, chefs, musicians, and volunteers for a weekend of workshops, cooking demonstrations, markets, and performances.
The two events together promise a weekend rich in culture, history, and community engagement. Tickets for El Galeón Andalucía are currently available, costing £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 accessed here, but will also be available on board, with entry to the food festival for £2. For further information, click here, or contact Jeremy Martineau via jeremy.m@talktalk.net.