The frigate was designed to carry 50 guns, making it a formidable warship of its era.
During its 35 years of active service, it completed the 'Carreira da Índia' route multiple times.
The 1963 fire lasted for several days, causing the vessel to sink in the Tagus River, where it remained partially submerged for nearly 30 years.
Reconstruction efforts involved meticulous historical research to replicate 19th-century carpentry techniques and naval materials.
The ship represents the transition period in naval history between sail power and the industrial steam-powered engine era.
The Frigate Dom Fernando II e Glória is the last ship of the Portuguese Navy to be propelled exclusively by sail and the last frigate built in the Damao shipyard in India. Launched in 1843, the vessel served the Lisbon-Goa route for over three decades, covering approximately 100,000 nautical miles. After suffering a catastrophic fire in 1963 that left only its charred hull, the ship underwent an extensive reconstruction project between 1990 and 1998. It is currently permanently dry-docked in Cacilhas, serving as a museum ship managed by the Portuguese Navy. The internal decks have been restored to reflect the mid-19th-century living and working conditions of the crew. It functions as a specialized maritime museum showcasing 19th-century naval architecture and Portuguese colonial history. Visitors can walk through the gun deck, the captain's quarters, and the lower holds.
From the riverfront walkway directly in front of the bow to capture the full scale of the masts against the river.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the ship features steep ladders and narrow stairways between decks.
Allow time to walk along the adjacent riverfront promenade for contrasting views of the ship and the Lisbon skyline.
Visit the ship's lower storage holds to see the structural reconstruction details.
Do not attempt to visit in high heels or restrictive clothing, as the ship's original maritime architecture is physically demanding to navigate.
Closed on Mondays.
