Sagres Tall Ship – Celebrating an Icon

The New Bedford Whaling Museum’s Portuguese Lusophone-World Lecture Series and the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society are delighted to co-present a special program celebrating the visit of the iconic Portuguese Tall Ship NRP Sagres to New Bedford Harbor as part of its transatlantic journey for America’s 250th anniversary commemorations. The 292-foot, three-masted barque serves as a training vessel for future officers of the Portuguese Navy and as a floating ambassador of Portugal abroad. Instantly recognizable by her bright white hull and red crosses of the Order of Christ, Sagres embodies a living tradition of maritime heritage, diplomacy, and international exchange. Her 2026 visit to New Bedford follows appearances in major international celebrations including Sail 4th 250 in New York Harbor and Sail 250 Boston. This special program will explore the ship’s remarkable history, mission, and enduring global significance, as well as the deep maritime ties between Portugal and New Bedford.