Buque Museo Fragata A.R.A. "Presidente Sarmiento"

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The ship served as the presidential yacht for several Argentine heads of state during official voyages.

2. 2

   It traveled over 1,100,000 nautical miles during its tenure as a naval training vessel.

3. 3

   The ship was the first of its kind in South America to be built with a dual propulsion system, using both sail and steam power.

4. 4

   It participated in the opening ceremonies of the Panama Canal in 1914.

5. 5

   All interior furniture and wood carvings in the officers' quarters are original to the 1897 construction.

6. 6

   The ship's figurehead, carved in England, remains in its original position at the prow.

Overview

The ARA Presidente Sarmiento is an 1897 school ship commissioned by the Argentine Navy, currently permanently moored as a museum ship in Puerto Madero. Designed by Laird Brothers in Birkenhead, England, it circumnavigated the globe 39 times during its active training career. The ship retains its original teak decks, brass fittings, and navigation equipment from the turn of the 20th century. It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1962, marking its transition from a training vessel to a maritime museum. The hull is constructed of steel and remains in its original configuration. Visitors can explore the internal quarters, including the captain's cabin, engine room, and crew mess areas. The ship is stationed at Darsena 3, serving as a primary cultural attraction within the renovated docklands of Buenos Aires.

Insider tips

• Wear flat, rubber-soled shoes to navigate the steep, narrow staircases and uneven steel flooring safely.

• Visit during a weekday to avoid the high foot traffic of the Puerto Madero waterfront area on weekends.

• Allow extra time to examine the engine room, which is often the most restricted and interesting part of the tour.