Look, I’ll never turn down the opportunity to engage in a bit of transport talk. But whilst London’s nifty network of tubes and trains are usually the primary topics of my vehicle-related ramblings, today I’m pushing the boat out. Later this week, a full-size replica of a 17th-century galleon will be sailing into St Katharine Docks – and here’s how you can hop aboard to explore it.
El Galeón Andalucía first docked in London back in 2024 and its arrival was met with such high demand, it had to extend its stay. Now, the 500-tonne vessel will return to the capital city on Friday as part of St Katharine Docks wider winter programme.
El Galeón Andalucía
The arrival of El Galeón Andalucía marks a rare chance for Londoners to hop on board one the impressive ships that sailed the world’s trade across the ocean. Measuring around 55 metres in length, the valiant vessel boasts six decks, each of which will be full of exciting exhibits and live displays for the occasion. Crew dressed in period costume will also be on board, ready to fully immerse guests and bring the age of Spanish galleons to life.
Built in Spain by the Nao Victoria Foundation, the hull and decks of this particular boat were constructed using a method that’s never before been used for an ocean-going ship of this size. Since its creation, El Galeón Andalucía has sailed more than 70,000 nautical miles and visited over 100 ports across 4 continents.
El Galeón Andalucía will arrive at St Katharine Docks on November 13 and visitors will be able to hop on board until January 10. Find out more and plan your visit here.
