BAP América, Gunboat museum at Naval Base in Iquitos, Peru.
The BAP América is a gunboat measuring about 41 meters long and 6 meters wide, anchored at the Clavero Naval Base. This vessel displays British naval engineering from the early 1900s and features original Armstrong guns positioned at both ends.
Built in 1904 in Birkenhead, England, the gunboat was later sent to Peru where it became involved in regional conflicts. It played an active role during the Leticia War from 1932 to 1933, a territorial dispute between Peru and Colombia.
The vessel stands as a symbol of Peru's naval authority in the Amazon, representing the nation's historical commitment to river defense. Visitors today see it as a floating monument to maritime heritage in South America.
To visit the vessel, take a short launch ride from Ayapua near Casa Morey Hotel across Iquitos Bay to reach the naval base. Tours are available throughout the day, and comfortable clothing with good footwear is recommended for climbing narrow internal stairs.
The vessel retains its original steam engine configuration from 1911, with two engines capable of reaching 15 knots at maximum speed. This well-preserved technical setup makes it a rare example of early Amazonian river transportation technology.
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