BAP Unión training vessel arrives in Guayaquil

The BAP Unión, the Peruvian Navy's training vessel and one of the largest in Latin America, arrived at the maritime port of Guayaquil, Ecuador, on September 10, 2026. The arrival was marked by a formal reception involving Ecuadorian military personnel and local students.

The vessel is currently conducting its VIEX 2026 foreign instruction voyage, a five-and-a-half-month continental journey that began in Callao on April 17. Guayaquil serves as the ship's final international port of call before its return to Peru.

Commanding officer Captain Juan Roncagliolo reported that there are 241 people on board, including 23 officers, 78 cadets, and additional crew members. The voyage serves as a practical training period for third-year cadets in subjects such as naval communications and astronomical navigation. The ship will remain in Guayaquil until Monday, offering free tours to the public, including access to the captain's cabin, officer quarters, and the Casa Perú museum.