The Nao Victoria is a stunning replica of the first ever ship to fully sail the world. Her arrival follows the huge success of the Galeón Andalucía’s visit to the Kent port in 2025 and symbolises another extraordinary moment in world history.
The Nao Victoria represents the greatest adventure in sea navigation: the first circle around the world in the 16th century (1519/1522). On 8th September 1522, 18 men, under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano, arrived back in Seville, Spain after more than three years at sea crossing five oceans to reveal the full size of Earth.
The initial expedition was originally made up of five ships and 243 crew members (“The Spice Army”), who, under the command of Ferdinand Magellan, left Seville, Spain on 10th August 1519. However, the Nao Victoria was the only ship to complete the return journey. The ship due to be on display, mirrored the same adventure in 2004, becoming the first replica to sail the globe.
Diederik Smet, Civic Engagement and Partnership Manager at the Port of Dover said:
“It’s amazing to have another iconic tall ship coming to the Port for the second summer in a row. The Galeón Andalucía was hugely popular with our local community in 2025, so we are delighted that they can be immersed in the inspiring story of another piece of maritime history here in Dover once again. Thank you to the Nao Victoria Foundation for making this happen.”
The Nao Victoria Foundation added:
“Sailing the Nao Victoria to Dover is a truly epic event. We are talking about the world’s only seaworthy replica of the ship that accomplished the greatest maritime feat of all time: the first circumnavigation of the globe. This very ship, which we are now bringing to the public, is a living legend that has already sailed the five great oceans of the planet. Seeing its historic masts rise against the imposing backdrop of Dover’s White Cliffs will be an unforgettable sight; it is a unique and monumental opportunity for visitors to have the privilege of stepping onto the very decks that changed our world forever”.
