Princess Leonor continues to strengthen her training as future head of the Armed Forces aboard the emblematic training ship of the Spanish Navy, Juan Sebastián Elcano.
This Tuesday, April 8, the ship left the Chilean port of Valparaiso on its way to its next destination: the Peruvian port of El Callao.
Princess Leonor bound for Peru
The day began under a partially cloudy sky, but with the sun peeking through the clouds.
Shortly before 11 a.m. (local time), the ship cast off after a protocol ceremony in which the crew and the midshipmen, including the heiress to the throne, greeted the Chilean authorities from the deck.
The stop in Valparaíso was especially symbolic. During the previous days, the Elcano not only carried out supply maneuvers, but also opened its doors to the public.
Dozens of Chileans came enthusiastically to see the ship, in days of visits that were repeated during the weekend with great affluence and long lines.
One of the highlights was the civilian flag swearing-in ceremony held on Saturday on deck.
In addition, on Monday, a group of midshipmen led by the ship’s commander, Captain Luis Carreras-Presas do Campo, made a special delivery to the Chilean Navy: a bust of Spanish Admiral Blas de Lezo, which will become part of the gallery of illustrious sailors at the Naval School of Valparaiso.
Blas de Lezo, a legendary figure in Spanish naval history, is remembered for his heroic defense of the port of Cartagena de Indias against the British siege in the 18th century.
Next stop
According to the planned route, the ship will now travel along the northern coast of Chile and southern Peru, a less demanding voyage than the one from the Strait of Magellan, but with dazzling scenery.
The vessel is expected to arrive in El Callao between April 18 and 22, in a stage of the voyage that will allow enjoying the most pristine skies in the world, ideal for night navigation.