Princess Leonor is about to live one of the most significant stages of her military training.
Following the example of her father, King Felipe VI, the young heiress will join the crew of the famous training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano as one of 76 midshipmen who will begin a six-month voyage around the world.
The ship, loaded with history, will set sail from Cadiz next Saturday, January 11, but the excitement in the port of Cadiz is already palpable in the atmosphere.
Princess Leonor’s final hours before setting sail from Cádiz
On January 8, Leonor is already in what will be her home for the next few months. Together with her companions of the 427th promotion of the General Corps and the 157th Marine Corps.
The adventure will take her to visit eight American countries and six Spanish cities, which will be a crucial step in her formation as a future queen.
In Cadiz, the princess’s farewell will be marked by a series of symbolic events.
The city’s inhabitants will have the opportunity to participate in various activities, such as painting competitions and guided tours of the ship.
In addition, Leonor is expected to attend as a spectator the inauguration of Elcano’s mast, which will be held on Thursday, January 10, at Punta de San Felipe.
A day later, on Friday, the Mayor of Cadiz, Bruno Garcia, will offer an official reception in honor of the midshipmen, an event that will be attended by the heiress.
However, the most awaited moment will come on Saturday morning, when the Juan Sebastián Elcano sets sail in an emotional ceremony presided over by King Felipe and Queen Letizia.
The day will begin with a mass at 9:30 a.m. at the Santo Domingo Convent, followed by a procession in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary, patron saint of sailors since the 16th century.
At 12 o’clock, the ship will leave the port of Cadiz under the solemn singing of the Salve Marinera, intoned by the University of Cadiz choir.
During the ceremony, salvos of honor will be fired from the Punta de San Felipe, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for those present.
Before the departure, it is expected that the King and Queen will briefly meet their daughter to wish her a good trip.
Thus, Princess Leonor will embark on this unique experience that will not only train her militarily, but will also allow her to represent Spain in every port she visits.
The next six months will be full of learning and experiences that will undoubtedly mark a before and after in her life.