IF you see what looks like a pirate ship on the channel in the coming weeks, fear not, the Vale is not being looted!
A stunning Spanish galleon is set to dock at Cardiff Bay between May 10 and 12 as it continues a tour of the UK.
The Galeón Andalucía is a replica galleon used by the Spanish between the 16th and 18th centuries for trade through Spain, America and the Philippines.
The incredible vessel was built by the Nao Victoria Foundation and launched at the Punta Umbria shipyard (Huelva, Spain), in 2009.
After extensive historical research was completed, the ship began being built using original and innovative techniques.
The hull and the decks were made using a new construction system with fibreglass and later, the whole structure, including the decks and the hull, was lined with wood.
The Galeón Andalucía is an imposing ship, measuring 55meters in length, with six decks, constructed from iroko and pine wood, and nearly 1000m² of sail surface spread across its seven sails.
It was carefully crafted to reflect the magnificent maritime tradition of the Andalusian community.
Between the 16th and 18th centuries, galleons were the boats that took the lead role in trade and cultural routes - named the Indies fleets.
The galleon was built to withstand some of the longest routes in navigation history.
Since its launch in 2009, Galeón Andalucía has put in quite the shift covering more than 48,000 nautical miles and sailing on seas including the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Southern China Sea, the Aegean Sea, the Bosporus Strait and the Caribbean.
Once it leaves Cardiff, Galeón Andalucía is set to continue its journey to Jersey, Plymouth, Poole, Scarborough, Southend-on-sea and Whitby before ending up in Great Yarmouth.
While in Cardiff, the ship will be open to the public between 10am and 8pm.
Prices start at £6 for children aged between five and 10 years old and £12 for adults.
Tickets for children under five are free and a family ticket which consists of two adults and up to three children is £35.
Find out how to get tickets to board the vessel at www.fundacionnaovictoria.org/buy-tickets.
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