The tall ship Cuauhtémoc, part of the Mexican Navy, has been on annual training voyages for the last four decades. This ship represents the culmination of cadet training on long international journeys.
Cuauhtémoc first made its journey across the Atlantic from Spain to Mexico back in July 1982.
As noted by the Maritimes Museum, it was one of four sister ships built in Spain, intended for service in various Ibero-American navies.
The other three vessels were designated for Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.
The ship is docked in Acapulco year-round while cadets complete their research at the Navy Military Heroica, which is Mexico’s sole naval training academy.
Once this phase wraps up, the sails are rigged for a tour lasting about six months. This year’s voyage was planned for 254 days, featuring 84 port visits from San Francisco to Australia.
“Every port we visit and every activity we undertake is a chance to highlight our nation’s greatness, its culture, and its values. Remember, each time we sail, we are ambassadors for Mexico,” a representative mentioned.
Cuauhtémoc has made history since it first set sail 43 years ago, achieving numerous awards for its remarkable voyages.
In 2006, it completed a staggering journey of 32,502 nautical miles, which remains the longest training voyage recorded.
This year’s training cruise is themed “Mexican Independence In 2025,” marking two centuries since the Mexican Navy expelled the last Spanish base from its territory.
The vessel is named after Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec emperor, who was captured and tortured during the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. He was executed by the Spanish in 1525, a pivotal event that accelerated the decline of his empire.
