New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“Destination New Bedford and Pope’s Island Marina welcome Nao Trinidad, a replica of the 16th-century tall ship that sailed with Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan’s fleet that circumnavigated the world. This year marks the 500th anniversary of Magellan’s historic trip.
“While at port, the ship is a floating museum and people are welcome to tour the ship, interact with the crew, and visit the exhibition on board,” said Ulises Custodio of the Spanish-based nonprofit, Nao Victoria Foundation. The ship will arrive in New Bedford on September 4th and will be open for tours at the marina from September 5th through September 10th from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in person at Pope’s Island Marina or online in advance. Purchasing in advance is strongly recommended.
Parking at Pope’s Island Marina is limited, especially on weekends. Visitors are advised to park in New Bedford’s historic downtown at the Elm Street Parking Garage. A short walk to New Bedford’s waterfront Pier 3 will take you to the New Bedford Launch, an affordable boat ride for the whole family that connects you with attractions, restaurants, and more for only $4.00 per person. Be sure to bring a camera — the launch will provide stunning views of the ship and New Bedford’s waterfront from the harbor, allowing passengers the chance to capture photographs before arriving at Pope’s Island Marina where the ship will be docked.
New Bedford is home to many restaurants offering fresh seafood, cultural cuisine, and waterfront dining. Restaurants accessible from the launch include The Whale’s Tail Clam Shack, The Black Whale, Mirasol’s Café, Merrill’s on the Waterfront, Fathom’s Waterfront Bar & Grill, and Acushnet Creamery. The launch also offers pick-ups and drop-offs in Fairhaven.
“The arrival of the Nao Trinidad is a great opportunity to educate visitors and residents about Magellan’s circumnavigation of the globe. The explorer’s Portuguese heritage resonates with the City of New Bedford’s Portuguese and maritime history,” said Ashley Payne, Director of Destination New Bedford.
“What better way to experience New Bedford than by enjoying any of our authentic Portuguese or seafood restaurants, learning about the City’s whaling, fishing, and Portuguese history at the New Bedford Whaling Museum and the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center, taking a stroll through the New Bedford Whaling Historical National Park, and finally, enjoying a scenic ride on The Launch to tour the tall ship at Pope’s Island Marina. When you come to New Bedford, you’ll realize you need more than one day to experience the City’s history, art, and burgeoning food scene.”
Those looking to extend their visit to New Bedford can make accommodations at the Fairfield Inn by Marriott or the New Bedford Harbor Hotel located just minutes away from New Bedford’s Pier 3.
Tickets for the tour are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages five to 12. Children under five are free. Family passes are available for $35 and include admission for two adults and three children.
For more information, contact Destination New Bedford at tourism@newbedford-ma.gov.”
