Hundreds of people have already visited a unique tall ship in Whitehaven – and it has been revealed it will now stay for an extra day.
Galeón Andalucía arrived in the town late on Tuesday night and opened for people to jump on board on Wednesday.
It was due to remain in the town until tomorrow Sunday, July 13.
But, organisers have revealed that ‘for reasons out of anyone’s control’ it will be staying an extra day.
It means people can visit it on Monday, July 14 too.
The full-scale 17th century replica Spanish galleon is unique to other tall ships, as it operates as a floating museum.
Visitors will be able to wander and take photos and videos on its decks, talk to the ship’s actual crew members, enjoy interactive exhibits, videos, projections and see historical documents onboard.
It also marks the first time in two decades that a ship of this size and calibre has visited Whitehaven.
The replica was originally built in Spain in 2009 and is modelled on the galleons used by the Spanish during the 16th and 17th centuries. It is around 160ft or 49 metres long and weighs around 500 tonnes.
In its heyday, the real armed cargo ship would have been used for discovery expeditions and for inter-oceanic trade between Spain, America and the Philippines as part of the Fleets of the Indies.
July 13 update
It has now been announced that it will now leave on the 4pm high tide on Wednesday, which means it will now also be open until 8pm on Tuesday, July 15.
Gerard Richardson said: “Given the 4pm departure, we expect there may be a big turnout so please bear in mind that a small working area will be taped off adjacent to the ship from about noon on Wednesday. That area needs to be kept clear for the ships crew and marina team.
“This visit has been quite remarkable for the town and it would be lovely if as many of you as possible could come along on Wednesday to help make here departure something the crew will remember fondly for years to come.”
Tickets are available on the quayside.
