However, he finally arrived on the coast of Newfoundland and therefore was the original discoverer of America, not Christopher Columbus as most people are led to believe.
Today the replica of the Matthew which is managed and operated by the ss Great Britain Trust, usually sits proudly in Bristol harbour for all to see however for a brief period she is to set sail and head for Whitehaven Harbour. At this time she is
planned to arrive at approximately 2pm on the 28th June to stay for the week though times may change as the date approaches.
Members of the public will be able to board The Matthew as well as embark on trips to sea.
In 1997 the replica Matthew followed the same course as John Cabot in 1497 and sailed across to Newfoundland. It carried the same number of crew members as the original and took the same and used the same amount of time to complete the crossing.
For further information please contact the Maritime Festival Company on 01946 694 444 or e-mail thefestival@tiscali.co.uk
During her stay over the weekend the ever popular continental market will be in place. See local press for latest information.
http://www.matthew.co.uk/home/home.html
