STUNNING pictures have shown a replica Spanish tall ship floating museum being docked at Southend Pier.
El Galeon, built from 2009 to 2010 and owned by the Nao Voria Foundation, has taken up temporary residency at the head of the world’s longest pleasure pier today.
Launched in 2009 and spanning close to 49 metres, the reinforced timber-structured vessel is a full-size copy of the ships from the 1600s.
These were used by the Spanish Crown for maritime expeditions and “establish trade routes” between Spain, America and the Philippines.
As the ship began its final approach to the pier, Visit Southend took to Facebook Live to stream its arrival.
An Echo Camera Club member Martin Harvey took some drone shots of the masterpiece when it was finally moored in its home for the next 11 days.
Boasting six decks of “fascinating” features, exhibits and displays and 3,400sqft of open space, El Galeon’s visitors will be able to step aboard to learn how the galleons connected the world’s continents, supported by informative, period-dressed staff.
Derek Jarvis, councillor responsible for arts, culture, heritage and leisure, said: “This is a unique experience for families, sea lovers and those who appreciate history, to learn more about what life was like as a 17th century sailor, and how these 200ft galleon tall ships made the world much more accessible.”
Following Southend City Council’s announcement that the vessel’s would be visiting the seaside town, demand for this limited-time experience soared and resulted in advanced online tickets being released to control guest numbers aboard.
Due to the booming sales, the company have extended El Galeon’s stay from May 29 to June 4.
“We’re thrilled the ship can stay on throughout half term and hope as many people as possible take advantage of its longer stay,” Mr Jarvis added.
Admission – which is in addition to the usual pier charges – for adults cost £10, children aged five to 10 are £5, and a family-of-four ticket is £25. Children under 5 can visit for free.
Guests can book their passes in advance on the Southend Pier and Railway website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel