Replica Of Columbus' Historic Santa María Sails Into Greenport

GREENPORT, NY — Just in time for Columbus Day weekend, kids and adults alike can step back into time and experience history firsthand in Greenport aboard a magnificent reproduction of Christopher Columbus' Santa Maria.

According to the Nao Santa Maria's website: "The Nao Santa María is one of the most famous ships of humanity. On October 12, 1492, captained by Christopher Columbus, protagonist of one of the most important milestones in history: the discovery of America, the meeting between the worlds that is related to the evolution of universal history."

The visit, the site said, consists of a self-guided tour through the five decks of the Santa María, where those aboard can find informative panels with the history of the ship, ornamental elements of the time and talk with the crew to experience how the lives of Spanish sailors felt, 500 years ago.

The ship will be docked in Greenport through Monday and open for tours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.

The site also gives an explanation of how the beautiful reproduction was constructed, with an eye toward remaining true to its historic characteristics while bringing the vessel to the modern world — a process that combines a construction of fiberglass and a lining of wood. "It is a novel technique that represents a huge advance in terms of environmental impact, costs, durability and maintenance of the ship," the site said.

The work lasted about 12 months; the ship weighs 200 tons.

To purchase tickets, click here.