Displaying items by tag: Santa Maria

13th May 2014

Haiti Shipwreck Could Be Remains of Columbus Flagship 'Santa Maria'

#SantaMaria - Christopher Columbus' voyage of discovery to the Americas more than 500 years ago is almost the stuff of legend today - but now marine archaeologists think they've found the remnants of his flagship, the Santa Maria.

The potential find off the north coast of Haiti - on what was then known as the island of Hispaniola - could give us a tangible connection to the stories we all learned at school about the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria.

As The Independent reports, top archaeological investigator Barry Clifford says "all the geographical, underwater topography and archaeological evidence strongly suggests that this wreck is Columbus’ famous flagship."

And it's only happened because of a fresh look at images of the wreck taken more than 10 years ago, in the context of new dives to the site earlier this month.

Sadly the return dives saw various artefacts were missing, presumed raided by looters.

But it's hoped that the ship itself, if it is indeed confirmed as the one Columbus sailed to the New World in 1492, might be preserved in such a state that it could be raised and become an important tourist attraction for impoverished Haiti.

The Independent has much more on the story HERE.

Published in Historic Boats

Tagged under

About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.