Spanish training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano opens to public in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo.- On Wednesday, starting at 3:00 p.m., the Juan Sebastián Elcano, a historic Spanish training ship, opened its doors to the public at Sans Soucí port. The military vessel, with 254 crew members aboard, offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the Spanish Navy’s operations on international waters. The ship, which docked in the Dominican capital on Monday, carries a special guest: Princess Leonor de Borbón, the heir to the Spanish crown, who is serving as a midshipman during this transatlantic voyage.

Among the visitors were teachers, students, and naval history enthusiasts, who were impressed by the ship’s remarkable preservation and historical value. One visitor marveled at the bronze details, mooring structures, and overall condition of the vessel. A history teacher who brought her students highlighted the educational significance of the visit, linking the ship to Spain’s colonial history and the accomplishments of Juan Sebastián Elcano, the first sailor to circumnavigate the globe. The students were particularly interested in learning about the life aboard the ship and the various ranks of sailors.

The vessel is open to visitors on Thursday, May 22, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m