Huelva Brings its Atlantic Spirit to Cork Aboard the Nao Santa María

Cork’s waterfront was transformed into a vibrant meeting point between Ireland and southern Spain on the evening of 4 June, as leading tourism professionals gathered aboard the iconic Nao Santa María to discover the richness and authenticity of Huelva.

The event was hosted by H.E. María Teresa Lizaranzu, Ambassador of Spain to Ireland, and was also attended by Honorary Consuls Catalina Goode and Diarmuid Cornelio O’Donovan.

Jointly organised by Destino Huelva, the Provincial Council of Huelva, Fundación Nao Victoria, and the Spanish Tourism Office in Dublin, the event brought together around 30 key representatives from the Irish travel industry. Among them were Tom Randles (Travelnet & ITAA), Hugh Bruton (Brittany Ferries), Michael Doorley (Shandon Travel), and Barry Holland (Cork Airport).

Set against the unique backdrop of one of the most emblematic ships of Atlantic exploration, one of the ships that Christopher Columbus sailed to the American continent, the evening showcased Huelva’s diverse tourism offer—from its protected natural landscapes and unspoilt coastline to its rich cultural heritage and renowned gastronomy.

Speakers highlighted the growing interest among Irish tourist in authentic and lesser-known destinations in Spain, while also reaffirming the strong cultural and tourism ties between the two countries.

The Nao Victoria Foundation’s primary objectives include promoting maritime history and highlighting the remarkable achievements of the sailors from Huelva, through replicas of historic vessels that serve as floating museums during the major international tours they undertake each year. The visit of the Nao Santa María to Cork marks a new chapter in collaboration and opens fresh opportunities to further promote Huelva in the Irish market.