The Pinta and The Nina Arrive in Knoxville

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT)-- In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue; so why are The Nina and The Pinta here in Knoxville?

We talked to Stephan Sanger the 1st mate to find out, "We travel from place to place and we set up floating museums . We educate the public on the type of ships that Columbus sailed across the ocean on."

But where's the main cargo ship, The Santa Maria? Stephan says it's a popular question with tour groups "Now that we have two ships traveling together both need 7 feet of water wherever they travel. The Santa Maria, being larger and more of a cargo vessel, it would need 14 feet of water to dock and most locations only have 9 to 10 feet of water. "

It's a rare opportunity for people around the country to learn more about Columbus.

"We are the only two traveling Columbus replica ships in the world. There's other replicas stationary in different parts of the United States and the world but we're the only traveling ones.

Stephan says, "The kids love it they all think it's a big pirate ship but hopefully when they grow up they'll know that it's not a pirate ship."

Well there's no pirates here in Knoxville but there's plenty of history to learn aboard.

The ships are docked at Calhoun's on the River in downtown Knoxville. They'll be here until November 18th. Tickets are $7 for adults, $6.00 for seniors, $5.00 for students and children under 4 years old are free. It's open from noon to 6:00 p.m. everyday. Check out their website at the bottom for more information.


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