Naval Training Ship Esmeralda
The ship is the sixth to carry the name Esmeralda. The first was the frigate Esmeralda captured from the Spanish at Callao, Peru, by Admiral Lord Thomas Alexander Cochrane of the Chilean Navy, in a bold incursion on the night of 5 November 1820. The second was the corvette Esmeralda of the Chilean Navy which, set against superior forces, fought until sunk with colors flying on 21 May 1879 at the Battle of Iquique.
These events mark important milestones for the Chilean Navy and the ship‘s name is said to evoke its values of courage and sacrifice. Construction began in Cádiz, Spain, in 1946. She was intended to become Spain‘s national training ship. During her construction in 1947 the yard in which she was being built suffered catastrophic explosions, which damaged the ship and placed the yard on the brink of bankruptcy. Work on the ship was temporarily halted. In 1950 Chile and Spain entered into negotiations in which Spain offered to repay debts incurred to Chile as a result of the Spanish Civil War in the form of manufactured products, including the not yet completed Esmeralda. Chile accepted the offer and the ship was formally transferred to the ownership of Chile in 1951.
Work then continued on the ship. She was finally launched on 12 May 1953 before an audience of 5,000 people. She was christened by Mrs. Raquel Vicuña de Orrego using a bottle wrapped in the national colors of Spain and Chile. She was delivered as a four-masted topsail schooner to the Government of Chile on 15 June 1954, Captain Horacio Cornejo Tagle in command.
This kit contains plans with detailed building instructions in German, English, French, Danish, Italian and Dutch, laser cut wooden hull, wood planing, and all fittings needed to complete the kit.
- BB730
- Length 1130 mm. Width 131 mm. Height 485 mm. Scale 1:100.
About: Naval Training Ship Esmeralda
Information about the DNaval Training Ship Esmeralda
The Naval Training Ship Esmeralda is a renowned training vessel of the Chilean Navy. This four-masted barquentine has a rich history dating back to 1952 when it was built in Spain. The ship was originally named the ‘Astillero’ and served as a training vessel for the Spanish Navy. In 1954, it was sold to the Chilean Navy and renamed the ‘Esmeralda’ after the famous Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda’s poem ‘La Esmeralda.’ Since then, the Esmeralda has become a symbol of Chilean naval pride and tradition.
The Esmeralda is an impressive ship, measuring 113 meters in length and 13 meters in width. It has a displacement of 3,600 tons and can reach a maximum speed of 12 knots. The ship’s four masts, towering at 49 meters, are adorned with 27 sails, giving it a majestic appearance. The vessel’s hull is painted white, with the Chilean flag proudly displayed on its sides.
The primary purpose of the Esmeralda is to train future officers of the Chilean Navy. It has a capacity of 300 cadets, including 90 officers and 210 enlisted personnel. The ship’s training program is rigorous and comprehensive, covering all aspects of naval operations, including navigation, seamanship, engineering, and gunnery. The cadets also learn important values such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership, which are crucial for a successful naval career.
The Esmeralda has participated in numerous international events, representing the Chilean Navy and promoting goodwill among nations. It has sailed to over 300 ports in more than 60 countries, covering a distance of over 800,000 nautical miles. The ship has also been featured in several movies and documentaries, making it a well-known and respected vessel worldwide.
One of the most notable features of the Esmeralda is its impressive and unique training sails. These sails, known as the ‘training sails of honor,’ are used during special ceremonies and events. They are made of white canvas and are adorned with the names of Chilean naval heroes and battles, serving as a constant reminder of the country’s rich naval history.
The Esmeralda is not just a training vessel; it is also a floating museum, showcasing the history and traditions of the Chilean Navy. The ship’s interior is beautifully decorated with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that depict the country’s naval heritage. Visitors can also tour the ship and witness the cadets in action, giving them a glimpse into the rigorous training they undergo.
In conclusion, the Naval Training Ship Esmeralda is a symbol of Chilean naval excellence, tradition, and pride. Its impressive history, rigorous training program, and international presence have made it an iconic vessel in the maritime world. The ship continues to inspire and train future generations of naval officers, ensuring the legacy of the Chilean Navy lives on.
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