Spanish Training Ship Joins U.S. Independence Day Festivities in New York

The Spanish training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano joined New York's Fourth of July festivities, sailing the Hudson River as part of an international parade of tall ships. The vessel is participating in Sail4th250, a major naval and air event celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding, which has gathered about fifty allied nations.

On Saturday morning, the nearly century-old ship, the third-largest tall ship globally, presented a picturesque scene on the Hudson. Its white sails were full of wind against its four masts, and the Spanish flag flew under the sun. The ship's participation commemorates Spain's contribution to American independence and the crucial role of its navy, as noted on its X account: "honor to those who served Spain" and "helped change the course of History."

The Juan Sebastián de Elcano will be accessible to the public at Pier 90/91 on the Hudson River in Manhattan until July 7. Following its visit, the ship is scheduled to depart for Cádiz, Spain, on July 8, with an expected arrival on July 31 to begin its maintenance period.

Spain's presence in the U.S. anniversary celebrations also includes the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I, the amphibious assault ship Castilla, and frigates Reina Sofía and Blas de Lezo. The Spanish Navy and Air Force contributed fighter jets to the aerial parade.

“

honor to those who served Spain and helped change the course of History.