The departure of the training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano from Cádiz on Saturday, January 11, was marked by deeply emotional moments, especially for Queen Letizia. Overcome with emotion, the Queen wiped away tears as her eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, embarked on the ship alongside 76 midshipmen to begin a six-month training voyage around the world.
King Felipe VI was seen comforting his wife with a supportive hug, a poignant gesture of unity as parents watched their eldest child set off on an important journey.
The Cadiz dock was filled with family members and well-wishers who had gathered to witness the ship’s 97th training cruise. Princess Leonor, the heir to the Spanish throne, was warmly greeted by cheers and applause as she boarded the ship at 10:20 a.m.
Families of the midshipmen and members of the public shouted words of encouragement like “beautiful,” reflecting the pride and admiration of the crowd. The ship’s crew also shared emotional farewells with their loved ones before setting off on this transformative journey.
From the dock, the King and Queen exchanged affectionate glances and gestures as Princess Leonor stood in formation with her fellow midshipmen. At one point, King Felipe VI blew kisses to his daughter, while Queen Letizia placed her hands over her face, visibly moved by the occasion.
Reflecting on the moment, Queen Letizia noted that many other mothers present were feeling the same emotions, while the King expressed to journalists that it was an understandably “very emotional” experience. Felipe VI also took out his phone to capture the special moment, just as any proud parent would.
As the ship prepared to leave, a ceremonial 21-gun salute and seven cheers for the King were performed, followed by the Spanish national anthem. Standing aboard the Elcano, the King and Queen waved to the crowd, with Queen Letizia placing her hand on her heart as a gesture of gratitude for the public’s warmth. Princess Leonor, smiling brightly, bid farewell by raising her sailor’s cap in the air alongside her companions.
An Honour for All Midshipmen
For the midshipmen embarking on this voyage, the journey is not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal one. “It will be hard to be away from our families, but it is an honour to serve Spain,” remarked one emotional midshipman.
Many expressed their pride in sharing this experience with the future queen, describing Princess Leonor as “one of us.” The midshipmen’s departure was accompanied by long embraces and tearful goodbyes with their families before boarding the ship.
Shortly before noon, the Elcano cast off and began its voyage, accompanied by small boats that followed it for several miles. The King and Queen stood on the dock, waving goodbye as the training ship sailed away. Felipe VI held Queen Letizia by the waist in a supportive gesture, embodying the solidarity of parents sending their child off on a significant journey.
A Six-Month Journey Across Continents
The voyage aboard the Juan Sebastián de Elcano will last six months, visiting eight countries across several continents. Stops include Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, followed by ports in Brazil, Chile, Peru, Panama, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and the United States.
In early June, the ship will dock in New York, where Princess Leonor will disembark to continue her training aboard a frigate.
While on board, Princess Leonor will participate in all scheduled activities and share in the daily life of the crew. This immersive training aims to develop her personal and professional skills while deepening her commitment to serving Spain. The voyage will also promote Spain’s image abroad and foster diplomatic ties with other nations.
Tradition and Prestige
The Juan Sebastián de Elcano is steeped in tradition and history, and this 97th training cruise reflects its ongoing role in shaping the future of Spain’s naval leaders. King Felipe VI himself participated in this same training voyage as a midshipman in 1987, making this moment particularly meaningful for the royal family.
Before the ship set sail, the King addressed the midshipmen, urging them to represent Spain with pride and integrity. “Always remember that you carry the prestige and image of Spain on your shoulders,” he told them.
The training program includes studies in navigation, astronomy, meteorology, and amphibious operations, as well as fostering close bonds among the crew through their shared experiences at sea. The cruise will conclude in July, with the ship returning to Cádiz after its final stop in La Coruña.
A Farewell Full of Meaning
The emotional farewell at Cádiz highlighted the significance of this moment not just for Princess Leonor but for all those involved. Queen Letizia, like many mothers that day, expressed a mixture of pride and sadness as she watched her daughter embark on this transformative journey.
For Princess Leonor, this voyage marks a pivotal step in her preparation as the future Queen of Spain, underscoring her dedication to her role and to her country.
