Gil Eannes Foundation

The Gil Eannes offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of a real Portuguese naval hospital ship. It is impressively well maintained, with exhibits that vividly portray life at sea. There’s also a small but charming bookstore on board, and the staff are friendly and welcoming. The entrance fee is fair, and overall, the visit feels worthwhile. If you’re in Viana do Castelo, it’s definitely a place you shouldn’t miss.

This hospital boat permanently moored at Viana do Castelo is well worth a visit but be warned there are steep narrow steps between the decks as you navigate your way around . It is a very interesting boat giving you an insight as to the working conditions the sailors have to endure to save lives . It cost €5 and I’d say it is not money wasted and recommend you visit .

This is a must see, it has been lovingly restored and maintained, you will get to see how a hospital ship worked and how the crew lived. If you like ships and history then go on this vessel. 5€ entry fee is well worth it. Recommend weekdays or early mornings on the weekends

It was great! It’s very well restored and it shows in detail how it was living and working inside this ship. Highly recommend. Expect to spend at least 1 h there.

The hospital-boat is impressive to visit, and it helps in understanding how important the cod ('bacalhau') fishing had shaped the city's histo

We were really impressed by all the original fittings and equipment from 1955, all refurbished and looking like the ship was still in use. Engine and machinery space, bridge, galley, crew quarters, X-ray room, medical facilities etc were all properly equipped. There is a lot of information about the ship, its use and the Cod fleet. Would be nice in English but then we would have spent all day on board! An informative film with English subtitles tells you a bit about the hard and dangerous business of salt cod catching.

Super nice with kids (and without), lots to visit. 🇨🇦 friends, you’ll learn about a part of our history ;-) Highly recommended.

Old medic ship called the Gil Eannes, that was used as a medic ship for cod fishermen in the North Atlantic sea(Newfoundland and Greenland). Lots of info and rooms to see 5 different decks even a medical operating room. For €5pp not a bad price. Will recommend if visiting Viana de Castelo. Also has a audio tour but we didn’t do that.