On Thursday, Nov. 10, the ‘Pinta’ and the ‘Nina’, replicas of Columbus’ Ships, will open in Chattanooga. The ships will be docked at the Chattanooga Pier, next to the Tennessee Aquarium, 100 Riverfront Parkway, until their departure early Monday morning, Nov. 28. The ships will be closed on Thanksgiving, Nov. 24.
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.” In 2005, the ‘Pinta’, also a caravel, was launched in Brazil and is the first ship to site land in the New World. Historians consider the caravel the space shuttle of the 15th 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. Before him, the Old World and the New remained separate and distinct continents and ever since their fates have been bound together for better or for worse.
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 5- 6. Children four and under are free. The ships are open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 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 columfnd1492@gmail.com. Minimum of 15. $5 per person. No maximum. Visit the website at www.ninapinta.org.