The Manila Galleons: rich pickings for English pirates
Cathy Shelbourne
- Regions:
- Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex
- Notice Period:
- Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £65 plus expenses
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 16th March 2026
- Tagged:
- Maritime History | ; English Pirates | ; Treasure
The Manila Galleons that sailed annually in the 16th-19th centuries, between the Philippines and Mexico, were a magnet for marauding English seafarers and their sovereigns. Some of the fabulous treasures from China and the Far East can still be seen in stately homes today (such as Melford Hall in Suffolk). Gold and silver looted from the Spanish galleons bolstered royal coffers, and garnered knighthoods. Arise Sir Francis Drake!
Views: 16 | Enquiries: 0About Cathy Shelbourne
My maritime heroes, ships and pirates are my passion! As I travel the world giving talks on cruise ships, I research the ports and places we visit for more information on, and photos relating to, the naval heroes, explorers, circumnavigators, pirates and privateers sailing the world up to five centuries ago.
I'm an experienced speaker, member of Toastmasters International, and frequent finalist in speech contests. I also belong to the Society for Nautical Research, and the Yachting Journalists' Association; and am Editor of the Ipswich Maritime Trust's magazine.
I have created a pack of Monumental Maritime Heroes playing cards to complement my talks. Each card is superbly designed by artist Andrew Oliver, and features a photo or image of the hero and/or monument - with a brief summary of their career. This is supplemented by an information leaflet and timeline. Available in a presentation box from www.seashellcommunications.co.uk/shop
Other Talks on SpeakerNet by Cathy Shelbourne
- In the wake of the Mayflower - from an East Anglian perspective
- In the wake of The Mayflower
- A Pillar of Society? Admiral Lord Nelson and the loves of his life
- Lord Nelson and his Suffolk connections
- A Toast to William Hoste – for his part in saving the jewels of the Adriatic
- Admiral Broke and the 15 minute battle that changed the course of history
- B is for Bligh
- Pirates of the Caribbean!
- Thomas Cavendish: navigator who wasn’t averse to a bit of piracy too
- William Dampier: circumnavigator extraordinaire
- Sir Cloudesley Shovell’s shipwreck and his impact on longitude
- Cutty Sark: heroine of the seas
- 54 maritime heroes in 45 minutes!
- Food, Glorious Food!
- Pirates of the Mediterranean!
- Great Circumnavigators
- Great Female Circumnavigators
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