Cross of Burgundy flag presented to El Galeon

Staff from the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument presented a Cross of Burgundy flag to the crew of El Galeón this morning, part of the Viva 500 Florida celebration; commemorating 500 years since Ponce de Leon claimed this land for Spain and named it La Florida.

The educational vessel sailed into St Augustine on May 21 and was originally scheduled to depart yesterday, Monday, June 3. Due to the large volume of visitors, that stay has been extended through June 23, along with an opportunity for Historic City News readers to learn about the history of early sea navigators and the contribution of Spanish explorers.

“The extended stay in St. Augustine will provide the vessel’s owners, Fundacion Nao Victoria in its home port of Seville, Spain, the opportunity to seek other venues to showcase the vessel while in the United States,” said Glenn Hastings, executive director of the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council. “While visitors continue to tour and enjoy the ship, the Nao Victoria organizers are able to plan for future endeavors, such as sailing up the Atlantic Coast to New York City and the possible use of El Galeon in film production.”

The ship departed from Puerto Rico, where Ponce de Leon was governor, and has sailed in much the same way his crew did in 1513. El Galeon also stopped in Miami, Cape Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale; inviting visitors to come aboard the floating museum and living-history testament to the mariners who forged Florida’s history.

The 16th century sailing ship will be open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through June 23, for public visits. Tickets are $15 for adults, $8 for children; ages 6 to 12, and children age 5 and under are free.

Photo credits: © 2013 Historic City News archive photograph National Park Service