A piece of world history will dock in Wilmington starting next week. The Nao Santa Maria, a replica of the ship sailed by Christopher Columbus in 1492, is coming to Wilmington from June 10-13 and will be open for self-guided tours. The 200 ton, four-deck replica will be available for tours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Riverwalk between Grace and Chestnut streets. 

Crew members at each level can answer questions and talk about their experiences traveling from port to port on the "floating museum." According to Stephanie Fornes, president of Wilmington Harbor Enhancement Trust, which brought the replica ship to Wilmington, the experience is an educational opportunity for all ages covering " one of the most important historic landmarks in the discovery of America."