Arriving just in time for the 4th of July Holiday
On June 28, the newly renovated Bayside Park at 3rd Street in Ocean City will welcome a remarkable visitor from across the seas: the Nao Trinidad, a magnificent tall ship replica of the vessel that led the historic Magellan-Elcano expedition in the 16th century. This floating museum of Spanish maritime heritage will be docked at the bulkhead along Chicago Avenue, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of maritime exploration. The ship will be docked in Ocean City throughout the summer, leaving on September 1.
Event details can be found in OceanCity.com’s Event Listings.
A Glimpse into History: The Fate of the Original Nao Trinidad
The Nao Trinidad was the flagship of the Magellan-Elcano expedition, the first to circumnavigate the globe between 1519 and 1522. This monumental voyage opened new trade routes, connected continents and oceans, and introduced the world to diverse cultures in Brazil, Argentina, the Mariana Islands, the Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, and Timor.
Setting sail from Seville, Spain, on August 10, 1519, the Nao Trinidad led a fleet of five ships across the Atlantic, along the South American coast, through the Strait of Magellan, and across the vast Pacific Ocean. However, after reaching the Moluccas (Spice Islands), the Trinidad’s fate took a tragic turn. A severe leak in its hull prevented it from returning to Spain with the sole surviving ship, the Victoria, which completed the circumnavigation months later.
In a desperate attempt to return eastward, the Trinidad faced relentless headwinds, currents, and a violent storm that nearly destroyed it. The crew suffered from cold, hunger, thirst, and scurvy. After six months of hardship, with only 17 survivors, the ship limped back to the Moluccas, where they were captured by the Portuguese. The battered Nao Trinidad was abandoned and met its demise in those waters.
A Floating Museum
The Nao Trinidad replica in Ocean City serves as a testament to the original ship’s remarkable journey and the indomitable spirit of exploration. Visitors can explore its multiple decks, marvel at its intricate rigging, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of Magellan’s historic voyage. The ship’s crew, dressed in period attire, will be on hand to answer questions and share stories about life at sea during the Age of Discovery. The Nao Trinidad is not just a ship; it’s a portal to the past, offering a unique educational and cultural experience for all ages.
You can see cool pictures of the Nao Trinidad on their Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/lanaotrinidad
Construction and Specifications of the Nao Trinidad
The construction of the Nao Trinidad replica adhered to historical accuracy while employing innovative shipbuilding techniques. Combining fiberglass with a wood lining, the project took approximately 14 months to complete, culminating in its launch on March 11th, 2018.
The vessel weighs 200 tons and boasts three masts and a bowsprit, just like the original. The main mast reaches an impressive 82 feet above the waterline. Over 1,589 cubic feet of iroko wood, a durable tropical wood resistant to various climates, were used in its construction.
Facts and Figures
- Visiting Area: More than 1,200 square feet across multiple decks
- Accommodations: 4 decks, captain’s cabin, and crew quarters
- Capacity: Maximum of 100 people for events
- Visitor Traffic: Approximately 2,000 visitors per day
- Specifications: 93 feet long, 26.2 feet wide beam, 10 feet draft, 82 feet air draft
- Rigging: 4 masts, 5 sails, 359 square yards of sail area, and over 1.9 miles of rope
The Nao Trinidad replica offers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur and craftsmanship of 16th-century maritime vessels. For more information, please visit the Nao Trinidad website: https://naotrinidad.org/en/content/8-construction
Plan Your Visit
The Nao Trinidad will be open for tours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, with tickets priced as follows:
- Families (two adults and up to three children): $35
- Adults: $15
- Children (ages 5-12): $5
- Children under 5: Free
You can buy tickets online on the Nao Trinidad site.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience a piece of history firsthand. The Nao Trinidad’s visit to Ocean City promises to be a memorable event for both residents and visitors alike.
A Legacy of Exploration
The Nao Trinidad’s presence in Ocean City serves as a reminder of the spirit of exploration and adventure that has shaped our world. As you step aboard this majestic vessel, imagine yourself alongside Magellan and his crew, setting sail into the unknown with dreams of discovering new lands and expanding the boundaries of human knowledge. The Nao Trinidad’s visit is a celebration of that enduring spirit and a testament to the power of human ingenuity and perseverance.
