Acapulco (MEX)

Initially, it was Hernán Cortés who decided to establish a base in Acapulco for the construction of galleons that would then be sent to sail the Pacific and the South Seas. But it wasn’t until 1565, when Fray Andres de Urdaneta arrived at Acapulco Bay on his return trip from the Philippines that this port became the destination of the famous route of the Manila Galleon, which would continue for more than 250 years (1565-1815).

As a result, Acapulco became an important trade center where fairs and markets were held and goods from the Orient were exchanged for products from Spain, Mexico and Peru.

Its development and importance led King Charles II of Spain to grant Acapulco the status of city.

Ships sailing from Acapulco (MEX)

1. San Ignacio (1571)

   Galleon which departed Acapulco (MEX) bound for Cadiz (ESP). She sunk in Florida in 1571 due to a storm. This ship captained by Juan de Canavas carried riches.

Ships bound for Acapulco (MEX)

1. Santa Marta (1582)

   Nao which departed Manila (PHL) bound for Acapulco (MEX). She sunk in California in 1582. She carried gold bullion, silver ingots and eastern ceramics. She belonged to The Manila Galleon.

2. Galleon San Agustin (1595)

   Galleon which departed Manila (PHL) bound for Acapulco (MEX). She sunk in California in 1595 due to a storm. This ship captained by Sebastián Rodriguez Cermeño carried eastern ceramics, gold bullion, silver ingots, wax and silk. She belonged to The Manila Galleon.

3. Santo Cristo de Burgos, aka Beeswax (1693)

   Galleon which departed Manila (PHL) bound for Acapulco (MEX). She sunk in Oregon in 1693. She carried wax, eastern ceramics and silk. She belonged to The Manila Galleon. 231 people lost their lives.