POOLE residents and visitors have been in awe after a 17th century Spanish Galleon docked on the quay.

The Galeón Andalucía arrived on Poole Quay on July 30 with pirate enthusiast able to board the ship until August 4.

(Image: Newsquest)

Helen Bull, from City Cruises, said: “It is wonderful, a really great atmosphere.

“It is a great credit to Poole and its history.”

Kate Hebley added that it is a “really good community event.”

The historic tall ship serves as a floating museum as well as a full-size replica vessel boasting six decks.

(Image: Newsquest)

Michelle Medhurst boarded the ship alongside Guido Schillig and said she has previously seen historical ships in Newcastle but this was her first chance to board it.

“I am pleased to be here and am loving the sea shanties,” she said.

(Image: Newsquest)

Stella Welsby, from Stella Barbers and Hairdressing, said: “We are loving it.

“It is really nice to be part of this day and so nice to see something like this happening on Poole Quay.

“Poole BID are doing amazing things for Poole and have got people coming back to the town.”

Poole BID organised the ship’s visit to the quay alongside Poole Harbour Commissioners.

The vessel houses 26 crew members who live and work on the ship full-time which has already traversed over 70,000 nautical miles across the world.

Tickets can be booked online or bought dockside for viewings from 10am to 8pm.

The ship will leave Poole Quay at 10am on Monday, August 5 where it will make its journey to the Netherlands.