WILLEMSTAD - After last month's visit of the Peruvian Navy training ship BAP Unión to the port of Curaçao, the Chilean Navy training ship Esmeralda will dock at the same Matheywerf in Otrobanda on Wednesday, May 15th. In the following days, May 16, 17, and 18, the ship will be open to the public for tours on board before departing on May 19. 

The Chilean four-master will appear on the horizon off the south coast of Curaçao early Wednesday morning around 7 o'clock and will be piloted in between 7 and 8 to dock at the Mathey wharf, where a small welcome ceremony will take place. For invited guests, there will be a reception on board that evening in the presence of the Chilean honorary consul in Curaçao. 

The local organization Curaçao Sail Foundation (CSF) is preparing a program of activities spread over those days for the staff and crew. They will have the opportunity to explore some of the attractions the island has to offer to visitors. 

Part of the visit is also a fundraising event with an evening program featuring Chilean cuisine and wines, and plenty of entertainment on Friday, May 17, from 8 pm to half past 11 pm. This will take place at the Mathey wharf in front of the Esmeralda, while the band Happy Peanuts will provide the musical entertainment. Attendees are asked to dress elegantly for the occasion. 

The funds raised are intended as a prelude to the organization of the much larger event that the Curaçao Sail Foundation has in store for two years from now. Just like a few years ago, CSF is gearing up to welcome various tall ships to the port of Curaçao in April 2026. 

When the Esmeralda departs on May 19, the next destination will be the Spanish city of Cádiz.