Estrella de Chile (ship)
The Estrella de Chile was a three-masted barque, known primarily for its role as a training ship for the Chilean Navy. Constructed in 1897 by the A. Stephen & Sons shipyard in Glasgow, Scotland, it served the Chilean Navy from its delivery until it was decommissioned and sold in 1951.
Primarily used for cadet training voyages, the Estrella de Chile provided practical seamanship experience to generations of Chilean naval officers. These voyages typically involved long-distance travel across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, exposing cadets to diverse weather conditions and navigational challenges. Cadets learned essential skills in sailing, navigation, ship maintenance, and naval discipline.
The ship played a significant role in fostering a strong maritime tradition within the Chilean Navy. Its decommissioning marked the end of an era for sail training in the Chilean fleet. While no longer sailing, the Estrella de Chile remains an important part of Chilean naval history, symbolizing a commitment to professional training and maritime expertise. After its sale in 1951, its ultimate fate and subsequent use are less documented.