Columbus ship discovers Fuengirola

A remarkable piece of maritime history is arriving on the Costa del Sol, giving visitors the chance to step aboard a replica of the ship that carried Christopher Columbus across the Atlantic in 1492.

The Nao Santa María will be berthed at Fuengirola Marina from November 11 to 22, where the public can explore the historic vessel and discover what life was like for sailors more than 500 years ago. Full details are available from the official organisers of the Fuengirola visit.

History sails into Fuengirola harbour

The original Santa María was the largest of the three ships in Columbus’s expedition, sailing as well as the Pinta and Niña on the voyage that led to the European arrival in the Americas. More information about the history of Christopher Columbus’s Santa María is available from the foundation responsible for the modern replica.

However, its story had a dramatic ending. On Christmas Day 1492, while anchored off the coast of Hispaniola, in what is now Haiti, the ship ran aground and was wrecked. Its timbers were reportedly used to build a small settlement called La Navidad, where Columbus left some of his men.

Meticulous replica demonstrates most historic feat

The modern Nao Santa María is a full-size replica built in 2018 by the Fundación Nao Victoria. Its construction involved almost 100 professionals, including shipwrights, historians and engineers. The construction of the full-size Santa María replica took 14 months and produced a 200-tonne vessel.

Visitors will be able to explore three decks, including the ship’s interior and storage areas, with the experience designed to bring the history of the great voyages of discovery to life.

The ship will be open daily from 10am to 7pm throughout its Fuengirola stay. Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for children aged five to 10. A family ticket for two adults and up to three children costs €25, while under-fives enter free. Visitors can book tickets for the Nao Santa María online or buy them directly at the ship.

The visit follows the vessel’s previous appearance in Fuengirola in 2025, when it also attracted public interest. Read more about the previous visit of the Nao Santa María to Fuengirola.