The ports and harbours of the Cork coastline have always enjoyed a varied set of visiting vessels, ranging from those massive cruise ships to the exclusive superyachts dropping anchor.
However, the scene down in West Cork is where locals and flocking tourists alike will soon be able to board (10-14 June) a truly unique replica tallship ahead of this summer’s Baltimore Pirate Festival (19-21 June).
The 200-ton vessel is that of Nao Santa María, a modern-day recreation, which is in every detail of La Santa María de la Inmaculada Concepción. This vessel formed the largest of the trio of sailing ships used by Christopher Columbus on his first expedition across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492.
La Santa María is among the most famous in history, and given how authentic the replica is, it has proved a hit with visiting families during its call to Leeside last week.
It may only be 28 m in length, but it has proved impressive to thousands of those who have trodden its decks since its construction in 2018. On this forthcoming occasion, a ceremonial flotilla of local boats and the crew of the Baltimore RNLI Lifeboat are to greet the arrival into the harbour before berthing at the North Pier.
The replica Nao Santa María was built in 2018 as a floating museum and educational project dedicated to the maritime heritage of Christopher Columbus's first Atlantic voyage.
Measuring 28 metres in length and displacing 200 tonnes, the vessel is a faithful reconstruction of Columbus's flagship, which sailed alongside Niña and Pinta on the 1492 expedition.
During its stay in Baltimore, visitors will be able to tour the ship's decks and accommodation spaces, offering a glimpse into life aboard a late 15th-century ocean-going vessel.
The ship's arrival is expected to be marked by a ceremonial escort from local boats and the crew of the Baltimore RNLI lifeboat before berthing at the North Pier.
The visit comes ahead of the Baltimore Pirate Festival, which returns from 19 to 21 June with a programme of maritime-themed events and entertainment.
CorkBeo has more on the replica, including a special onboard event held on 11 June, and also details of the festival.
