Two historic ships of the Paraguayan Navy, the Cañonero Paraguay and the Patrullero Capitán Cabral, docked for the first time in Encarnación on Saturday, August 22, attracting a crowd of residents and tourists. The visit takes place within the framework of the World Rally Championship (WRC), which has stages in the Itapúa department between August 27 and 30.
The operation began on Monday, August 17, with departure from Villeta Port. The vessels, under the command of Rear Admiral Carlos Barreto, sailed along the Paraguay and Paraná rivers, making stops in Pilar and Ayolas, and passed through the lock of the Yacyretá hydroelectric plant. Rear Admiral Barreto reported that the journey faced a storm near the confluence of the two rivers, overcome thanks to the crew's preparation. The trip consumed 31,852 liters of diesel, a figure that includes fuel for the return journey, scheduled to begin on Sunday, August 30.
On the first day of visitation, more than 2,800 people boarded to see the facilities. Guided tours, in groups of up to 40 people lasting 15 to 20 minutes, remain open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Silo and Molino San José area, where the ships will remain until the end of the event.
The Cañonero Paraguay, built in Italy in 1930, played a crucial role in the Chaco War, transporting more than 50,000 soldiers. After decades inactive, the ship underwent a modernization that included the installation of new diesel engines in 2023, restoring its navigation capacity. It currently serves as a training ship for the practical formation of cadets and apprentices. Along with its sister ship, the Cañonero Humaitá – which remains inactive in Asunción – it was declared National Historical Heritage by Law 3774.
The Patrullero Capitán Cabral, incorporated into the fleet in 1908, is one of the oldest military ships in the world still in operation. Re-engined with a diesel engine in 1980, it is often used in missions to assist isolated communities in the Paraguayan Chaco.
Vice Admiral Christian Rotela, commander of the Paraguayan Navy, explained that the initiative, authorized by the president of the Republic, is part of the institution's diplomatic role, projecting its presence and history close to citizens. On board, cadets from the Military Academy and apprentices from the Non-Commissioned Officers School participated in the journey as part of their practical training in navigation and deck operations.