The Port of Southampton welcomes ARA Libertad

Known as an ambassador of the seas, the Argentine Navy’s frigate ARA Libertad will bring a message of peace and friendship when she visits the Port of Southampton next week.
ABP says the Argentine vessel will be open to the public on Friday July 28 and Saturday July 29 between 11am to 4pm.
Visitors need to access the port by Dock Gate 4 and those arriving by car can pay to park in the short stay car park nearby.
The frigate ARA Libertad received the Gran Medalla in 1966 and also set the World Speed Record for a sailing ship crossing the North Atlantic — which still remains — covering 2,058 miles from Cape Race (Canada) to the line between Dublin/Liverpool, in just 8 days and 12 hours.
The ship’s maiden voyage took place in 1963 under the command of Captain Horacio Ferrari.
Since then, it has spent 17 of her 53 years at sea, covering over 800,000 nautical miles and visiting over 500 ports in 60 countries.
The vessel boasts a significant educational legacy; with around 11,000 Argentine seamen have been trained aboard.
In 2004, after nearly 50 years of service, it underwent mid-life repair; restoration works that will keep it active for a few more decades.
ABP Southampton Director, Alastair Welch, said: “This is a great opportunity for local people to visit the frigate ARA Libertad – we look forward to welcoming her to the Port of Southampton.”