The Argentine Frigate ARA Libertad has made a noteworthy arrival at the Port of Bridgetown, Barbados, as part of its 52nd training voyage.
This marks the frigate’s second visit to Barbados since its first arrival in 1974, coinciding with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of its inaugural journey.
Among those welcoming the vessel were key officials including the Permanent Secretary (International Transport) in the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport and Argentina’s Ambassador to Barbados, alongside representatives from the Barbados Defence Force and Coast Guard.
Under the command of Navy Captain Alfredo Ureta, the ARA Libertad received its guests with pride.
The Permanent Secretary expressed a warm welcome to the captain and crew, emphasizing that “the berth of the ship represents a significant milestone,” and conveyed hopes for an enjoyable stay in Barbados.
The ARA Libertad is a steel-hulled, fully rigged, Class A sailing vessel, serving as an educational platform within the Argentine Navy. It is recognized as one of the largest and fastest tall ships in the world, holding several prestigious speed records.
Conceived and built in the 1950s at the Rio Santiago Shipyard, the frigate embarked on its inaugural journey in 1961. It continues to serve as a vessel of education, completing annual instructional voyages for naval cadets while also acting as an ambassador of goodwill.
To date, the ARA Libertad has navigated over 800,000 nautical miles and made stops at around 500 ports in over 60 countries, educating more than 11,000 naval graduates.
The frigate is scheduled to set sail again on Sunday, September 22, 2024.
