The Esmeralda is a steel-hulled four-masted barquentine tall ship of the Chilean Navy. 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. She was launched in1953. Sometime in the 1970s Esmeralda's rigging was changed to a four-masted barquentine by replacing the fore gaffsail (course sail) by two main staysails. The third (top) main staysail is still in place. She has now five staysails, three topsails, six jibbs, three course gaff sails, four square sails, 21 all in all.

 Sail the magnificent waters of Sydney Harbour on a 100ft gaff rigged schooner. This is a modern boat built and operated along traditional lines. You can do as much or as little work as you like. Either jump in and haul on ropes to hoist the sails, grab the wheel and - with the skipper's permission and supervision - guide the big ship through the Harbour, or sit back, enjoy a drink and watch the world sail by.

DEPARTS:     King St Wharf No 8, Darling Harbour

TIMES:         Depart 6:45am sharp Return 11:30am

All you need to bring is some sun protection, a morning tea and refreshments. No glasses or smoking please.