Cuauhtémoc
The Cuauhtémoc, nicknamed the “Gentleman of the Sea,” is more than a training ship; it is the pride of Mexico’s Navy. Courtesy

The Cuauhtémoc to Dock in Progreso: How to See It Up Close

ByCarlos Rosado van der Gracht

The Mexican Navy’s sail training ship Cuauhtémoc will dock at the port of Progreso from November 10 to 15, joining the celebrations surrounding November 20, the anniversary of Mexico’s Revolution.

During its stay, the vessel will open its decks to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore this iconic ship up close. Admission is free, with complimentary round-trip shuttle service running from the Progreso Casa de la Cultura on Calle 25 to the Yucalpeten pier.

  • Cuauhtémoc
    The Cuauhtémoc, nicknamed the “Gentleman of the Sea,” is more than a training ship; it is the pride of Mexico’s Navy. Courtesy
  • Cuauhtémoc
    The Cuauhtémoc, nicknamed the “Gentleman of the Sea,” is more than a training ship; it is the pride of Mexico’s Navy. Courtesy
  • Cuauhtémoc
    The Cuauhtémoc, nicknamed the “Gentleman of the Sea,” is more than a training ship; it is the pride of Mexico’s Navy. Courtesy

    • Visiting hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., beginning on Tuesday, November 11, and continuing through Friday, November 14. No plans for bookings or reservations have been announced, so as it stands, visits will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. 

    El Pueblo Mérida

    About the Cuauhtémoc

    Aboard the vessel, 166 cadets from Mexico’s Naval Academy (114 men and 52 women) hone their skills on a voyage designed to strengthen their professional training and character. Launched in 1982 from Bilbao, Spain, the three-masted barque is a stunning relic from the golden age of sailing, yet its mission is thoroughly modern. 

    The ship is named after the final Emperor of the Aztecs, who was based out of Tenochtitlan (current day Mexico City). To this day, Cuauhtémoc is a towering figure in Mexican history, symbolizing valor and resistance.

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    On its wooden decks and within its complex rigging, cadets master advanced navigation and maritime science while developing essential qualities such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. This hands-on experience serves as the ultimate test of their mettle aboard a vessel that offers no room for error.

    While its primary role is educational, the Cuauhtémoc also serves as a vital diplomatic envoy for Mexico. Through “Instruction Cruises” like the current Consolidation of Independence 2025 tour, the ship embarks on lengthy voyages that double as missions of goodwill. Its arrival in any port, from Mexico to harbors across Europe and Asia, is always a significant event. 

    By opening its decks to the public, the ship fosters cultural exchange, creating a direct and tangible link between Mexico and the world.

    Having completed over 45 training cruises, the Cuauhtémoc has visited more than 217 ports in over 63 nations and circumnavigated the globe four times. Each journey adds a new chapter to its story as a peaceful ambassador. The crew, comprising both young cadets and experienced instructors, are trained to be representatives of their nation, promoting a message of friendship and international cooperation.

    More than just a ship, the Cuauhtémoc is an academy, a sailing museum, and a diplomat that speaks the universal language of maritime brotherhood. 

    Nicholas Sanders

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