Paraguayan Navy Suspends Ship Visits in Encarnación Due to Bad Weather

The Paraguayan Navy has temporarily halted public access to the historic gunboat Paraguay C-1 and patrol boat Captain Cabral P-01, currently docked in Encarnación. The decision, announced via a statement on August 29, 2026, cites safety concerns related to inclement weather in the southern part of the country.

These naval vessels have been a significant attraction since arriving in Encarnación for the World Rally Championship event in Itapúa. They have drawn considerable crowds, with officials reporting daily visitor numbers exceeding 6,000 people since their docking on August 22. The ships were scheduled to remain in Encarnación until Sunday noon, coinciding with the rally's conclusion.

Visits will be reinstated once the weather improves. The navy plans for the vessels to depart for the capital on Tuesday, provided the climatic conditions are favorable. The gunboat Paraguay C-1 is a notable vessel, built in Genoa, Italy, and launched in 1930. It played a crucial role during the Chaco War, transporting over 50,000 soldiers.

The patrol boat P-01, Captain Cabral, is recognized as one of the world's oldest operational military vessels. Originally a civilian steam tug named "Triunfo" built in the Netherlands in 1907, it was acquired by Paraguay in 1908 and formally joined the Navy in 1915. Both ships have generated significant interest as tourist attractions, underscoring their historical and cultural importance to Paraguay.