The Pinta and the Nina, replicas of Columbus’ ships, will open in Chattanooga on Friday, Oct. 11. The ships will be docked at the Chattanooga Pier near the Tennessee Aquarium, until their departure early Monday morning, Oct. 21.
The ‘Nina’ was built completely by hand and without the use of power tools. Archaeology magazine called the ship “the most historically correct Columbus replica ever built.” The Pinta was recently built in Brazil to accompany the Nina on all of her travels. She is a larger version of the archetypal caravel. Historians consider the caravel the Space Shuttle of the fifteenth century.
Both ships tour together as a new and enhanced "sailing museum" for the purpose of educating the public and school children on the "caravel", a Portuguese ship used by Columbus and many early explorers to discover the world.
While in port, the general public is invited to visit the ships for a walk-aboard, self-guided tour. Admission charges are $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $6 for students five to 16. Children four and under are free. The ships will be open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. No reservations are necessary.
Teachers or organizations wishing to schedule a 30-minute guided tour with a crew member should call 787 672-2152 or email columfnd@surfbvi.com. Groups are a minimum of 15, and are $5 per person. There is no maximum.
Visit the website at www.thenina.com for more information.
The ships will arrive on Thursday, Oct. 10, and there will be a private viewing for the ships after docking.