Arrival of the ARC Gloria in Roatan: A Symbol of Naval Diplomacy and Friendship
A Historic Visit to Roatan
The Colombian Navy’s training ship, ARC Gloria, known as the “Floating Ambassador,” docked at the Coxen Hole pier in Roatan, Bay Islands, as part of its 2025 Cadet Cruise. From August 21 to 24, the ship and its crew will participate in cultural exchanges, academic collaborations, and integration activities with local authorities and the Honduran Naval Force (FNH).
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During its stay, the ARC Gloria’s officers and cadets will engage in professional knowledge-sharing with their Honduran counterparts. These activities reinforce the long-standing cooperation between the Colombian and Honduran naval forces, promoting regional security, maritime collaboration, and cultural exchange. The visit also represents a gesture of friendship and solidarity between two nations bound by shared maritime traditions.
The Role of ARC Gloria in Naval Education
The ARC Gloria is the flagship of the Colombian Navy and serves as a floating classroom for cadets of the Naval Academy “Almirante Padilla.” Beyond its training role, the vessel also acts as Colombia’s cultural and diplomatic representative across the seas, carrying national pride and promoting goodwill around the world.
The ship departed from Santa Marta on July 29, 2025, and has already visited Oranjestad, Aruba, and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. After leaving Roatan, it will continue its voyage and return to Colombia on August 31, 2025.
A Floating Embassy with a Rich Legacy
Built in 1968 in Spain, the ARC Gloria is a barquentine with three masts and 23 sails. It has sailed more than 808,146 nautical miles — the equivalent of circumnavigating the globe over 117 times — and has visited 187 ports in 74 countries. Throughout its service, it has been a true symbol of Colombian heritage and diplomacy at sea.
A Cultural and Public Experience in Roatan
From Friday, August 22 through Sunday, August 24, the ARC Gloria will open its doors to the public, offering visitors a unique chance to step aboard and experience Colombian maritime culture and tradition. This initiative allows Hondurans and tourists in Roatan to learn more about Colombia’s history, values, and seafaring excellence.
Looking Ahead
The arrival of the ARC Gloria in Roatan not only strengthens bilateral naval cooperation but also opens opportunities for industrial, tourism, and cultural agreements between Honduras and Colombia. With approximately 75 crew members on board, the visit reflects a spirit of camaraderie and integration, highlighted by ceremonies, exchanges, and sports activities.
The vessel will depart on Sunday, August 24, bound for Guatemala, leaving behind a strengthened friendship between Honduras and Colombia.
📌 Those interested in visiting the ship may register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_SD5jVV-8Kh4-l56Nm2C1nRqX89aLm64X_J8vRL8LbVoVwQ/viewform?fbclid=PARlRTSAMUiE1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp-VvMbgra7AZ5VjLLNVwV6Zzmw66XBHxW8yFY6GSgEJii4VUDqbGXqOFXlFM_aem_3sUuwlYaRbEgooP6f97u-Q&pli=1
