Description
The world’s second largest sailing ship, Chile’s Esmeralda, 353 feet long with a mast height of 165 feet was launched in 1952. The four mast barkentine is capable of 12 knots under engine power. The pride of the Chilean Navy, Esmeralda was built in Cadez, Spain from plans used to build Spain’s Juan Sebastian De Elcano. The current Esmeralda, Chile’s floating ambassador, is the sixth Esmeralda. The second Esmeralda was the one led by famous Chilean Naval hero Arturo Prat during its last battle before sinking in 1879. Esmeralda has participated in Opsail 1964, 1976, 1986, and 2000.