Iconic tall ship Galeón Andalucía to make first-ever voyage into Bristol Harbour Festival this July

One of the world’s most majestic tall ships, the Galeón Andalucía, will sail into Bristol for the first time ever this summer, docking at Bristol Harbour from Thursday 17 July to Sunday 20 July 2025 as part of the Bristol Harbour Festival. This marks the long-anticipated return of tall ships to the festival since 2022 and offers visitors a rare opportunity to step aboard a full-scale 17th-century Spanish galleon.

A floating museum and historical replica, the Galeón Andalucía vividly brings maritime history to life across five decks. From 10:00am to 8:30pm daily, visitors can explore the ship, meet the crew and immerse themselves in exhibits that chronicle the era of transoceanic exploration and trade.

Harry Feigen, Festival Director at Bristol Harbour Festival, said: “The arrival of Galeón Andalucía is a standout addition to this year’s Bristol Harbour Festival - one of the UK’s largest free festivals – and offers an unforgettable way to connect with Bristol’s  maritime heritage. It’s a must-see experience for all ages.”

Tickets are available now at tickets.velacuadra.es and can also be purchased onboard during the festival. Entry is priced at £12 for adults and £6 for children aged 5 to 10, with a family ticket (covering two adults and up to three children) available for £30. Children under five can enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Special rates are available for schools and associations by emailing ecampos@velacuadra.es.

After the festival, the Galeón Andalucía will embark on a unique voyage from Bristol to Portsmouth, offering a limited number of berths for adventurous travellers. Boarding is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Sunday 20 July, with disembarkation on Thursday 24 July at 12:00 PM. For details and booking, visit tallshipexperience.com.

Image - Galeón Andalucía

While the tall ship’s return will undoubtedly be a highlight for many, the Bristol Harbour Festival’s water programme delivers a full weekend of unmissable activity and family-friendly spectacle. Expect breathtaking flyboard stunts from James Prestwood, high-energy canoe sprint races with Bristol Canoe Club and the ever-popular cardboard boat race and model boat parades brought to life by My Future My Choice. The Royal Navy adds dramatic flair with Commando Raiding Craft demonstrations, while the Steamboat Association of Great Britain brings a touch of heritage to the water. Young maritime fans can cheer on Sea Cadet races and junior gig crews and the weekend draws to a close with a final flourish from the iconic Pyronaut.

Elsewhere at the festival, audiences can look forward to a vibrant celebration of South West culture, creativity and community, headlined by a landmark collaboration between four of Bristol’s leading independent breweries - Left Handed Giant, Wiper and True, Bristol Beer Factory and Lost and Grounded Brewers - serving side by side for the first time. This milestone moment is joined by the return of Thatchers Cider and their iconic hot air balloon, a new local talent spotlight on the “Made in Bristol” music stage and the popular VIP experience. 

Highlights include genre-spanning performances from artists like Harmer Jays, Horses on the Beach and The Longest Johns, as well as the beloved Queen Square market showcasing regional makers, traders and food vendors. 

The Bristol Harbour Festival is produced by Proud Events in partnership with Swans Events, and is supported by Bristol City Council, Bristol City Centre BID, and Redcliffe & Temple BID.

For full programme details, updates and competition info, visit bristolharbourfestival.co.uk and follow @bristolharbourfest on social media.