Stunning replica of Christopher Columbus ship to visit Great Yarmouth

The Nao Santa Maria will dock at South Quay in Great Yarmouth on Tuesday, July 8, and depart on Monday, July 21. The ship - described as a floating, living museum - tells the story of the first circumnavigation of the world by Christopher Columbus in 1492 and people will have the opportunity to go aboard and learn about how the crew discovered America on one of the most famous sea voyages ever.

The impressive ship has four masts and 300sqm of sail on Major, Topsail, Mizzen, Ratchet, and Spritsail, with rigging replicating the original and more than three kilometres of rope. It has a forecastle deck, quarter deck, poop deck and a cabin.

The visit follow's last year's successful stopover in Great Yarmouth by the Galeon Andalucía, which saw thousands of people enjoy going aboard the tall ship. Ruth Cockrill, Great Yarmouth Borough Council's Marketing and Events Officer, said: ''We are delighted to have helped secure the visit of the Nao Santa Maria to the town this summer.

''The unique vessel promises to offer a fascinating day out for people of all ages. She is a truly incredible ship and we can't wait for her arrival, it promises to be a stunning spectacle for people to enjoy on South Quay and learn more about the history of the Santa Maria and Christopher Columbus.''

The ship was built by the Nao Victoria Foundation and construction in Spain involved almost 100 tradespeople - from shipwrights, ropemakers and other maritime craftsmen, alongside historians and engineers who worked on planning the initial designs for the replica and the design of the ship's shapes and measurements.

An innovative process was used for her construction combining fibreglass with a wooden coating. After 14 months' work, the ship was launched in 2018. It weighs in at 200 tons, is 28m long, has a beam of eight metres and a draft of three and a half metres.

Visitors will be able to see a recreation of conditions aboard as well as a range of other features, exhibits and live displays. Group visits from local schools and educational groups are possible, along with receptions and corporate events.

The Nao Santa Maria is scheduled to arrive at South Quay on Tuesday, July 8, and will be open to the public from July 9 until July 20, departing Great Yarmouth on Monday, July 21.

The ship will open between 10am to 8pm daily and there will be an opening ceremony on July 9. Tickets cost £10, £5 for children between five and ten years old. Children under five go free. A family ticket (two adults and up to three children) costs £25.

For more Information and to book tickets please visit tickets.naosantamaria.org/content . Tickets can also be purchased on the quayside while the ship is in Great Yarmouth.

School and group visits can be arranged by contacting ecampos@velacuadra.es