Would you like to combine a hands-on approach to history with some beautiful views of the Tennessee River?
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Ditto Landing is taking it back to the 15th century – how you ask? By having replica ships of the Nina and the Pinta docked at its port for over a week.
These beauties are products of The Columbus Foundation headquartered in the British Virgin Islands.
Both ships were built to educate the public on the vessels explorer Christopher Columbus chartered when he sailed to America in 1492.
The Nina and the Pinta are at Ditto Landing
The Nina is an exact replica of the original ship, while the Pinta was built as a slightly larger vessel to be used for tours, private events and charters.
I asked the crew of this historical duo a few questions on what life was like on an old-school ship.
What is a typical day like on the Nina and Pinta? Can anyone join the crew?
The typical day on the Nina and the Pinta includes getting the ships ready for the visitors, talking to the visitors about the ships and giving guided tours for groups and light maintenance that may be needed. The ships also need to be ready for each port, which includes duties like scrubbing the decks to killing spiders to raising the flags. To join the crew one needs to be 18 years or older and then it is an application process which is found on the ships website: www.ninapinta.org. A love of travel and the ability to not get seasick is helpful.
When were these ships built?
The Nina was finished in 1991 The Pinta was built a little bit later in Brazil, and finished in 2005.
Do the Nina and Pinta only sail around the United States, or do they sail internationally?
The ships sail the Gulf Coast, the East Coast, the Great Lakes and the river systems of the Midwest.
Are there any tips you have for anyone visiting the ships?
It is a self guided tour but ask lots of questions. The crew is very knowledgeable and enjoy talking with visitors. Make sure to bring your sea legs and your camera!
What is the crew’s favorite port?
There are many ports that are favorites. Each crew member has a different one, but we love to see visitors and answer people’s questions at every one!
The Nina and the Pinta will be docked at Ditto Landing until October 9.
Admission is $8 per person, and the ships are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
P.S. If you miss your chance to check out the ships by October 9, they will be back in Florence, Alabama, from December 1 – 4.
Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.
