In the 16th Century, Spanish explorers sailed around the world searching for new lands and trade routes to help improve their nation’s wealth and resources. Many spent weeks, if not months, at sea as they traveled from continent to continent. During their voyages, many of these seafaring explorers made their homes aboard tall ships called galleons. These 170ft long cargo ships were characterized by masts as tall as the ships were long and could house upwards of 100 passengers and crew members, as well as innumerable amounts of gold, silver, and other treasures.
Galleons were constructed of pine, oak, or other hardwoods, and required hundreds of carpenters, blacksmiths, shipwrights, and other tradesmen working around the clock for months on end to build. Because of the expense and manpower required to construct these Spanish tall ships, they were commissioned by groups of wealthy businessmen who pooled their resources in hopes that voyages abroad would yield high returns on their investments. For decades, galleons played an integral role in the exploration and colonization of much of the New World.
Now, 500 years later, you have the chance to experience life aboard a Spanish tall ship, right here in the Sailing Capital of the World. Not only does El Galeon Andalucía appear in the new NBC series Crossbones, but this replica tall ship serves as a cultural attraction that raises awareness about maritime history and the 16th Century around the world. It departed Spain in January on a voyage to ports all over the globe, including a month-long stay in Ocean City in August. From September 22 – 28 the tall ship will make its home at City Dock in Downtown Annapolis.
Don’t miss your chance to take part in this international event, and board a vessel that’s traveled the world, while it’s in your own back yard. Climb aboard El Galeon Andalucía and get a first-hand look at what it was like to be a 16th Century Spanish explorer. The tall ship is open for tours daily from 10am-6pm. General admission tickets start as low as $16 for adults, but discounted rates and upgraded VIP packages are available at www.tallshipevent.com.
If you’re wondering how impressive El Galeon Andalucía truly is, check out these images of the ship’s stay in Ocean City this summer:
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