After a slight delay yesterday due to the low tides, the El Galeon Andalucia, a.k.a the Tall Ship, sailed into the bay, docking between 3rd and 4th Streets in Ocean City. We were on the scene to take a few photos of course – check them out!

From the 16^th to 18^th centuries, galleons played the lead role in commercial and cultural relationships between Spain, America and Asia. Galleons were constructed from oak, pine and various hardwoods, and called for the work of hundreds of expert tradesman, including carpenters, blacksmiths, shipwrights and pitch-melters. Crews would work day and night for months before a galleon was considered seaworthy. Because the ships were costly, they were typically used for trade rather than military use.

The El Galeon Andalucia was constructed in 2008 and is owned by the Nao Victoria Foundation of Spain. The Foundation has extensive experience in the design, construction and maintenance of historical ships. Between 2010 and 2013, the Galleon has traveled over 35,000 nautical miles, traversing the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Southern China Sea, the Aegean Sea, the Bosporus Strait and the Caribbean Sea. In total, the El Galeon has stopped at 50 ports across the world.

Starting August 1, the ship will be open daily from 10AM to 6PM. At-the-dock pricing is $16.00 for adults and $10.00 for children.

**Photos by Gina Whaley**