La Niña Replica’s Ownership Deadline Extended

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Organizations now have more time to express interest in preserving and restoring the Caravel Replica La Niña. The City of Corpus Christi and the Columbus Sailing Association (CSA) have extended the deadline to submit a Request for Interest (RFI) for the rights of ownership through Friday, February 22, 2019.

“We felt the first deadline wasn’t long enough and we wanted to ensure all groups have an opportunity to apply,” Marina Superintendent Gina Sanchez said.

La Niña is one of three Columbus ship replicas built in Spain for the 500th anniversary of his voyage to the New World and gifted to the City. The only remaining Caravel Replica was leased to CSA in 2010, when there was a dedicated volunteer group committed to restoring La Niña to her prior glory. With only three members and few volunteers, CSA has decided it can no longer maintain La Niña.

The purpose of this RFI is to provide all interested parties with an opportunity to submit a Letter of Interest for the acquisition and preservation of La Niña which will allow the City to identify a new owner, historical foundation, and/or developer with the commitment, plans, and display concepts that are the most satisfactory to the future preservation of La Niña and her legacy.

NOTE:  This is not a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) but an invitation to participate in a future RFP or direct negotiation process.

RFI details can be found online at www.cctexas.com/lanina. All submittals must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 22, 2019. Property visits are by reservation only at (361) 826-3980.

Media Representatives requesting interviews may contact, Public Information Manager DeAnna McQueen at 361-826-2940 or by email at deannam@cctexas.com.