New Bedford Welcomes Back Replica of Magellan’s Tall Ship to Pope’s Island

NEW BEDFORD – Explore New Bedford, the City’s Marketing and Tourism Department, and Pope’s Island Marina welcome back for the second year in a row the Nao Trinidad, a replica of the 16th century tall ship that circumnavigated the globe with Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan’s fleet. Last year marked the 500th anniversary of Magellan’s historic trip.

“Many visitors came to New Bedford last year to see the ship and we got some great feedback, so we knew we wanted to have it return this year,” Explore New Bedford Director Ashley Payne said. “It’s a perfect match with New Bedford’s long and storied maritime history.”

“While at port, the ship is a floating museum and people are welcome to tour the ship, interact with the crew, and visit the exhibition on board,” said Ulises Custodio of the Spanish-based nonprofit, Nao Victoria Foundation.

There will be a brief welcoming ceremony at Pope’s Island on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 5 p.m. and it will be open for tours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 11-15. Tickets may be purchased in person at Pope’s Island Marina or online in advance.

Visitors looking for a unique view of the ship can take the New Bedford Launch, a boat ride for the whole family from Pier-3 to Pope’s Island, for $4 per person (cash only). The Launch is available daily, call 508-989-1328 for more information.

It will lead into a fun weekend around the City. Thursday, Sept. 12, is the 25th anniversary of AHA! Downtown, and there will be food trucks and vendors at Pope’s Island on Saturday, Sept. 15 from 12-6 p.m. Food trucks will return to Pope’s Island on Sunday the 16th.

About Explore New Bedford
Explore New Bedford promotes the City of New Bedford as a leisure and business travel destination and hub for creatives, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. We celebrate the story of the city’s history, arts, and culture by sharing the diverse stories of our vibrant community. Follow Explore New Bedford on Facebook and Instagram. Visit our website at explorenewbedford.org