The Princess of Asturias, Leonor de Borbón has commenced her training today aboard the training vessel Juan Sebastian Elcano. The heir to the throne embarks on a six-month voyage across America and Spain, adhering to a family tradition that connects her with the heritage of the Spanish Navy. In this article, we provide details about this expedition, the proposed itinerary, the precise date of arrival in Tenerife, and the aims of her training.
Princess Leonor follows in the footsteps of her father and grandfather
Felipe VI emphasised that“The sea is an eternal source of learning and challenge” that demands dedication and enhancement. In addition to the naval technical education, the monarch also underscored the significance of visits to various Ibero-American nations, which will enable the Princess to gain insight into the“Spanish legacy” on the American continent.
Training ship itinerary
The Juan Sebastian Elcano set sail this Saturday from the port of Cádiz on her training voyage XCVII, which accommodates 76 midshipmen including Princess Leonor. The schedule for this cruise comprises stops in eight countries as well as several Spanish ports.
- Stopover in Canary Islands.The training vessel is expected to arrive in Santa Cruz de Tenerife on January 17 and in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on January 21.
- Tour of America.Following the Atlantic crossing, the Juan Sebastian Elcano will dock at Salvador da Bahia (Brazil), Montevideo (Uruguay), Punta Arenas and Valparaíso (Chile), El Callao (Peru), Panama, Cartagena de Indias, Santa Marta (Colombia), Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) and New York (United States).
- Return to Spain.After the visit to New York, Princess Leonor will not travel directly back to Spain with her peers. Instead, she will fly from the United States to board a frigate and continue her training, rejoining the Elcano crew in Gijón to complete the journey to Ferrol, and ultimately to the Marín Naval School, where she is set to arrive on July 14.
The Kings bid farewell to Princess Leonor in Cádiz. / Roman Rios
Onboard training
On the Juan Sebastian Elcano, Princess Leonor and the other midshipmen partake in courses coveringNavigation, Astronomy, Meteorology, Amphibious Operations and Maneuver. Furthermore, they engage in watch duties, maneuvers, and navigation of the vessel alongside the crew, consisting of 20 officers, 20 non-commissioned officers, 130 sailors, and two civilian instructors.
The captain of the training vessel, Captain Luis Carreras-Presas do Campo, emphasised the significance ofcoexistence, camaraderie, and integration with the professional team. “Midshipmen and crew, we will strive to return as improved sailors and, if feasible, also as better individuals,” he stated.
This training ship plays a pivotal role in Princess Leonor’s military education. Upon completing her training with the Army, the heir to the throne will advance her education in the Navy, and after the summer, she will conclude her journey at the Air Force Academy.
