Huge Spanish 'warship' measuring 55 metres to sail along Thames in London - and you can get on board

Galeon Andalucia, a replica of a 17th Century Spanish galleon moored on the Quayside in Blyth, Northumberland.
-Credit: (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)


No, it is not an invasion by sea, it is just a 55-metre Spanish 'warship' which is going to sail through London next week. The Galeón Andalucía will sail through the iconic Tower Bridge and along the River Thames before docking for just under two weeks in London.

The 17th Century Spanish Galleon Replica was built from 2009 to 2010 by the Nao Victoria Foundation and is a fully working ship that has travelled all over the globe sailing over the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans.

The ship will sail through London on Monday, September 23 going under Tower Bridge at 5.30pm. After sailing down the Thames, the Galeón Andalucía will dock at St. Katherine's Dock and will have its decks open for visitors to come aboard from September 24 to October 6.

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Onboard you can discover what life was like sailing in Spain's Golden Age which could be a perfect day out for family and friends, where you'll experience a true voyage into history. These types of boats were the ones that took the lead role in the trade and cultural routes named the West Indies Fleet. These were a convoy of sea routes organised by the Spanish empire hundreds of years ago.

The Galleons would sail these routes that were known as the longest routes and also lasted longer than any other in navigation history. The Galeon Andalucia will be open from 10am to 8pm for the days it is docked in London. Tickets cost £12 for adults and £6 for kids, with a family ticket costing £30 (two adults and up to three children).

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