More than 10,000 people have already visited two Paraguayan Naval vessels in Encarnación. The Cañonero Paraguay and Patrullero Capitán Cabral arrived for the 2026 World Rally Championship celebrations in Itapúa. The vessels now welcome visitors at the city’s waterfront, offering guided tours throughout the day. The visit also marks a historic moment for Paraguay’s naval heritage.
A historic arrival
The Paraguayan Navy brought both vessels to Encarnación at the request of rally organisers. President Santiago Peña later approved the Navy’s participation in the event. Both vessels arrived on Saturday morning and quickly attracted large crowds along the waterfront. Their presence adds a naval attraction to the international motorsport celebrations.
According to Navy figures, around 2,500 people visited during Saturday’s opening. By Sunday, thousands more had toured the vessels. Consequently, more than 10,000 people have already experienced the guided visits. The strong turnout showcases public interest in Paraguay’s naval history and traditions.
The arrival also represents a first for the Cañonero Paraguay. The historic vessel has never previously navigated the waters of the Paraná River. Therefore, the journey brings a significant chapter of Paraguay’s naval history to Encarnación. Visitors can now explore a vessel usually associated with other Paraguayan waterways.
Visitors explore Paraguay’s naval history
Navy crew members lead each group through the vessels during the visits. Along the way, they explain their history, functions and role within Paraguay’s naval vessels tradition. Visitors can also see different areas of the vessels while learning about their operations. This experience offers families an opportunity to connect with national history.
The guided tours do not require visitors to register before arriving at the port. Groups of up to 40 people can board the vessels during each visit. Tours currently operate between 8:00 and 17:00 each day. However, Navy officials may extend visiting hours because of continued public demand.
The naval vessels remain moored along the Encarnación waterfront during the World Rally Championship. Their location sits between the Silo and Molino San José, providing easy access for visitors. Meanwhile, the Navy continues welcoming members of the public aboard both historic vessels.
A connection with Paraguay’s past
The Cañonero Paraguay and its sister vessel, the Humaitá, hold historical importance. Both vessels served as flagship ships for the Paraguayan Navy during the Chaco War. Paraguayan legislation later recognised both cañoneros as National Historic Heritage. The designation shows their longstanding connection with the country’s military and maritime history.
Today, the Cañonero Paraguay operates following several modernisations to its systems and appearance. Those changes include upgrades to navigation, propulsion and engines, allowing continued operation. Meanwhile, the Humaitá remains awaiting restoration and recovery efforts from authorities. The Encarnación visit therefore offers a rare opportunity to experience Paraguay’s naval heritage firsthand.
With more than 10,000 visitors already recorded, interest continues growing around the vessels. The Navy’s presence also creates a new cultural attraction alongside the rally celebrations. For visitors, this experience unites sporting excitement with an opportunity to discover Paraguay’s maritime past.
