The Design and Build of Cuauhtémoc
Cuauhtémoc’s unique design reflects a bygone era of traditional sailing vessels, while also serving a modern purpose. Measuring an impressive 90.5 metres in length, with a 48.2-metre mast height and a sail area of 2,368 square metres, the ship embodies the aesthetics of a ‘Class A’ tall ship. (A Class A tall ship is a square-rigged vessel or any other vessel that is over 131 feet in length overall (LOA). The USS Constitution is another example of a Class A tall ship.) Built in 1982 at the Celaya Shipyards in Bilbao, Spain, it was the last of four sister ships designed in the style of the famed German shipbuilders Blohm & Voss.
Designed by the renowned Naval Engineer Juan José Alonso Verástegui, Cuauhtémoc was delivered to the Mexican Navy on July 29, 1982, becoming an invaluable asset for training and diplomacy. Under its first commander, Captain Manuel Zermeño del Peón, the ship embarked on its maiden voyage to Mexico, with a crew of cadets from the Mexican Naval Academy who proudly guided her home.
A Tribute to Mexico’s Heritage
Named after the last Aztec emperor, Cuauhtémoc stands as a tribute to Mexico’s rich heritage. The vessel’s crest depicts symbols integral to the Mexican identity: the god of wind, Ehécatl, breathes life into Cuauhtémoc’s sails, while an eagle from Mexico’s national coat of arms graces the top, symbolising strength and resilience. The circular crest, with its abaca rope surrounding the silhouette of the ship, connects Cuauhtémoc’s history with its modern-day voyages, charting a course led by wind and rigging as it travels the world.
Cuauhtémoc as a Training Vessel
For over four decades, Cuauhtémoc has been an instructional ship, preparing fourth-year cadets for their careers in the Mexican Navy. The vessel carries a crew of 261, all working together to master the art of traditional sailing. This year’s voyage is especially significant, as it includes the largest number of female personnel in the vessel’s history, marking a historic shift toward inclusivity.
Highlights of Cuauhtémoc’s 2024 Training Voyage
The ship’s 2024 journey spans over 25,000 nautical miles, visiting 13 ports across the globe, including Fremantle, Melbourne, Sydney, and now Auckland. Cuauhtémoc’s mission extends beyond training its cadets; it fosters international goodwill and cultural exchange. Notably, an Australian naval officer, Sub Lieutenant Henry Mancilla, joined Cuauhtémoc for the Australian leg of the journey, underscoring the vessel’s collaborative spirit.
Auckland Visit: Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
Cuauhtémoc’s visit to Auckland further cemented the ties between New Zealand and Mexico. The ship welcomed visitors throughout its stay, offering New Zealanders a chance to explore the vessel’s decks and learn about Mexico’s naval traditions. New Zealand politician Winston Peters, who visited Cuauhtémoc during its stay, remarked on social media, “The Minister had the pleasure of visiting the Mexican Navy vessel ARM Cuauhtémoc in Princes Wharf last night. The Cuauhtémoc is on her 42nd voyage in 42 years, this time with 261 crew on board. Her second visit to New Zealand, Cuauhtémoc’s stop in Auckland demonstrated the close friendship between New Zealand and Mexico.”
Cuauhtémoc’s Legacy in Global Sailing
ARM Cuauhtémoc is celebrated worldwide as a two-time Tall Ships’ Races winner, having visited 212 ports across 64 countries and clocked over 756,085 nautical miles—equivalent to 35 circumnavigations of the globe. Each visit furthers its mission as an “Ambassador and Knight of the Seas,” inspiring naval cadets and representing Mexico’s commitment to maritime tradition.
As Cuauhtémoc departs Auckland for Tahiti, en route to her home port in Acapulco, she leaves New Zealanders with a lasting impression of Mexico’s seafaring heritage and a reminder of the bonds that connect nations across oceans.
As the ship’s sails disappear on the horizon, one can’t help but wonder: what stories will this generation of cadets bring back from their adventures on the steadfast Cuauhtémoc?
