On March 5, Montevideo welcomed the arrival of the training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano, which docked in its port as part of its training cruise.
Among the midshipmen on board, Princess Leonor, heir to the Spanish throne, was smiling and relaxed as she stepped ashore after weeks of sailing.
Princess Leonor Arrives in Uruguay
Dressed in her impeccable white uniform with her hair tied back, the princess exchanged greetings and laughter with her shipmates as they stepped off the ship.
The stopover in Uruguay represents a new stage in their naval voyage and an opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the South American country.
During their stay, the young midshipmen will participate in official activities organized by the Navy, in addition to enjoying free time to tour the city.
The ship’s commander, Luis Carreras-Presas do Campo, expressed his satisfaction at the arrival in Montevideo and recalled the ship’s historical link with the city.
“It is a pleasure for the crew and midshipmen to dock in Montevideo. We have a very special affection for it since our first visit in 1928,” he commented.
This will be the Elcano’s eighteenth visit to the Uruguayan capital, the last of which will be in 2020.
Training on the high seas is demanding. During the six-month voyage, the midshipmen alternate naval instruction, military training and academic classes, with working days that can reach up to eight hours a day.
Living together on the ship, in addition to the long weeks without touching land, tests their endurance and discipline, although it also allows them to strengthen their bonds.
As with every stop, the visit to Montevideo will be an opportunity to clear their heads and explore a new city before resuming sailing.
The Elcano’s itinerary will continue with stops in Chile, in the cities of Punta Arenas and Valparaiso, before continuing on to Peru, Panama, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and New York.
The ship is expected to return to Spain in July, culminating a voyage that for many of the midshipmen, including Princess Leonor, will become an indelible memory.