By Mal Butler
Cannonball fire and orange smoke marked the spectacular entrance of the Nao Santa Maria, which sailed past Ventnor Bay on Wednesday.
Crowds packed the seafront to see the replica of the world-famous ship, which took Christopher Columbus to the Americas in 1492. The in 1492. The celebration also commemorated the Battle of Dunnose, off the Island coast, in 1588.
Bell ringer and town crier, Will Nixon, announced the arrival of the ship which has spent the last three years in America.
The shore gun fire came from Woody Point, The Spyglass Inn, Ventnor Haven groyne, and Horseshoe Bay, with the ship also returning fire.
The event included the opening of the Coastal and Downs Armada 1588 Heritage Trail by Ventnor Town Council, a ceremonial flag-raising, enactments, bell-ringing and live sea shanties and stories at The Spyglass Inn.
The 1588 Armada Ensign was designed by local historian, David Baldwin, and featured the Island flag and the flags used by both sides during the battle.
Among the guests were the Spanish Embassy’s First Political Counsellor, Antonio Casado-Rigalt, representing The Ambassador of Spain. He was accompanied by the Spanish Embassy’s First Political Secretary, Cristina Ruenes-Marinas.
The Island was represented by HM Vice Lord Lieutenant, Brigadier Maurice Sheen with two military cadets, High Sheriff, Jacque Gazzard, Ventnor Mayor, Steve Cooper, as well as Deputy Mayor, Steph Toogood, Cowes Mayor, John Nicholson, and IW councillors, Ed Blake and Rodney Downer.
Brigadier Sheen said: “It was a tremendous occasion and great to welcome the Spanish Armada on Island soil after 500 years.
“The event emphasised the strategic importance of the Island in so many conflicts, from the Armada to our recent commemorations in honour of our predecessors in World War II. It was a privilege to be here.”
The arrival was followed by performances from the Sea Gels Shanty Singers, the Shalfleet Shanty Group and The Watch, followed by a performance from JC and Angelina at The Spyglass Inn.
There were evening performances from the Sea Gels Shanty Singers, Brighstone Barnacles, Not a Mermaid in Sight, East Cowes Shanties and the Wight Ukuleles. Holly Medland Lees also shared maritime stories.
The ship is now docked at Trinity Landing, Cowes, and open to visitors until Monday.
Isle of Wight Observer