Spanish training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano sails in New York July 4 celebrations

The Spanish Navy training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano sailed on the Hudson River on July 4, taking part in the United States’ Independence Day festivities in New York. The vessel joined the Sail4th250 program, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and featuring the largest concentration of naval and aerial displays in the country’s history.

While cruising between the Verrazzano and George Washington bridges, the nearly 100‑year‑old ship flew the Spanish flag and was open to the public at Pier 90/91 on the Hudson until July 7. It posted on its X account, “la contribución de España a la independencia de Estados Unidos y el papel decisivo de la Armada”, adding “honor a quienes sirvieron a España” and “ayudaron a cambiar el curso de la Historia”.

Following the celebrations, the Juan Sebastián Elcano will depart New York on July 8, head to Cádiz, and arrive on July 31 for a maintenance period. Spain also sent the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I, the amphibious assault ship Castilla, and the frigates Reina Sofía and Blas de Lezo, alongside naval and Air Force fighter jets that took part in the aerial display.