A full scale replica of the 16th century Spanish galleon Nao Victoria has sailed into Scarborough harbour and is already proving a major attraction for residents and visitors.

Moored at North Wharfe Quay until Sunday 6 July 2025, the ship is open daily for public tours offering a rare chance to step aboard the vessel that made maritime history as the first to circumnavigate the globe.

The original Nao Victoria left Seville in 1519 and returned in 1522, having crossed three oceans and the edges of four continents under the command of Juan Sebastian Elcano.

Visitors can now explore this intricately recreated replica and learn about the challenges faced by the crew during their historic voyage more than 500 years ago.

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The Nao Victoria’s arrival follows the hugely popular visit of the Galeon Andalucia last summer, which drew thousands of families to the harbour and created a buzz throughout the town.

Our executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include the visitor economy, said: “Scarborough is a hugely popular destination for families especially at this time of year and it’s great to be able to add the Nao Victoria to the town’s offering this summer.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for visitors and residents to witness maritime history up close, jumping aboard a replica of the iconic ship that was the first to ever circumnavigate the world.

“The tourism sector is so valuable to the local economy and high-profile arrivals such as this can only increase footfall further, which in turn can provide a welcome boost to local businesses, restaurants and accommodation providers.”

The visit has been funded by Visit North Yorkshire, the countywide organisation promoting tourism and championing local destinations.

Tourism generates £4 billion a year for North Yorkshire’s economy and supports 38,000 jobs across the region.

Visitors can step onboard the Nao Victoria between 10am and 8pm.

Families can take a self-guided tour of the decks, discovering more about the historical and social context that led to one of the greatest maritime feats in the history of navigation.

People can also talk to members of the crew, real sailors who live as they did 500 years ago.

To find out more information about the ship and buy tickets, visit the Visit North Yorkshire website or visit the Nao Victoria website.

Schools and other groups can also enquire about a group visit by contacting ecampos@velacuadra.es.