News Summary
The ARA Libertad, a tall ship of the Argentinian Navy, has docked in Baltimore’s historic Fells Point area, marking its only U.S. stop during a training trip. With a crew of 280 from Argentina’s Naval Academy, the ship invites the public for free deck tours this weekend through Sail Baltimore. Despite environmental challenges, visitors are captivated by the ship’s classic design and cultural ambiance, complemented by tango music. The ARA Libertad is on its 47th training voyage, showcasing maritime heritage and creating a unique interaction with Baltimore’s nautical past.
Baltimore has welcomed the ARA Libertad, a tall ship of the Argentinian Navy, which has docked in the historic Fells Point area. The ship arrived on Wednesday and is making its only stop in the U.S. during its current training trip. The public can take advantage of free deck tours offered this weekend through Sail Baltimore.
The ARA Libertad is 344 feet long and staffed by a crew of 280 personnel, consisting of instructors and cadets from Argentina’s Naval Academy. Despite its vintage appearance, the ship serves an important role in training the next generation of naval officers, helping them learn traditional seamanship and ship mechanics.
Visitors have shown considerable interest in the ship, with a notable lunchtime crowd gathering to tour its decks, despite an unusual environmental condition known as a pistachio tide affecting the harbor. This phenomenon has led to a foul odor in the area, particularly when winds shift, although some visitors have remarked that conditions have improved with recent rain and cooler temperatures. One visitor noted that the enhanced atmosphere even evoked memories of the Caribbean.
Lt. Bruno Farabollini expressed that the crew is enjoying their stay in Baltimore and that the experience adds to their adventure, indicating a positive morale among the ship’s personnel. The aesthetic qualities of the ARA Libertad, including intricate ropes and colorful flags, have also captivated visitors, many of whom have taken beautiful photographs.
Local resident Madison Burns decided to tour the ship during a lunchtime walk, joining others who were drawn to its impressive size and the sight of the Argentinian flag. The ship’s ambiance is enriched by a soundtrack of tango and traditional Argentinian folk music, enhancing the cultural experience for all who explore it.
The ARA Libertad is engaged in its 47th training trip, having set sail from Buenos Aires on March 17. Its participation in the “Velas Latinoamérica 2018” event signifies an important cultural exchange, showcasing the ship and its crew to diverse audiences.
Tour hours for the ship are listed as Monday to Wednesday from 12 PM to 8 PM, with the vessel scheduled to depart from the Inner Harbor on Friday at 8 AM. The opportunity to board and learn about the ship and its history is a testament to the enduring appeal of maritime heritage, as noted by Nan Nawrocki, the executive director of Sail Baltimore.
Baltimore residents have long appreciated the presence of tall ships like the ARA Libertad, finding joy in the unique interaction they offer with the city’s nautical past and present.
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Additional Resources
- WBAL TV: ARA Libertad at Fells Point
- Wikipedia: ARA Libertad
- SouthBmore: ARA Libertad Arrives
- Google Search: Argentine Navy Ship Training
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Naval Vessel
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
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