More than 10,000 visitors boarded the Nao Santa Maria during a 10-day stay in Drogheda, highlighting the growing appeal of the River Boyne as a maritime tourism destination. Drogheda Port Company says the visit demonstrated the town's ability to host major heritage attractions while boosting local businesses and visitor numbers.
The full-scale replica of Christopher Columbus's 1492 flagship berthed at Fiddle Case Pier, where thousands of families, school groups and maritime enthusiasts toured the vessel.
Captain Pablo Fernández and his crew extended opening hours into the evenings to accommodate demand. During their stay, they also explored Drogheda's historic sites and attended a reception hosted by the Old Drogheda Society.
An onboard reception celebrated the tourism potential of the River Boyne and Drogheda. Guests enjoyed Spanish cuisine and flamenco music, reflecting the historic trading links between Drogheda and Spain.
Speaking at the event, Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney highlighted the importance of regional ports and referred to the Government's new ports policy.
He also noted the need for additional deep-water capacity on Ireland's east coast and praised the local team "working to develop Drogheda and put it on the map."
Spanish Ambassador María Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat, Mayor of Drogheda Declan Power and representatives from local business and community organisations also attended the reception.
Drogheda Port Company chairman Gerard Deegan thanked the port team and partners whose support helped deliver the event, which attracted visitors from across the region.
The company said the success of the visit reinforces its commitment to using maritime events to strengthen tourism, celebrate the River Boyne's heritage and promote Drogheda as an important cultural and port destination.
