The Matthew Room
Please note all prices based on double occupancy.
The Matthew Room offers an exceptional view of Bonavista and also the Matthew replica that is situated in Bonavista harbour. In addition to the view, the Matthew Room offers cable television; separate and private bathroom with shower; and breakfast is served in the morning.
Matthew Room $ 105.00 plus tax per night (off season $90.00 plus tax).
The Matthew: The Matthew was a ship sailed by John Cabot in 1497 from Bristol to Bonavista, Newfoundland. After a voyage which had got no further than Iceland, Cabot left again with only one vessel, the Matthew, a small ship (50 tons), but fast and able. The crew consisted of only 18 people. The Matthew departed either 2 May or 20 May 1497. She sailed to Dursey Head, Ireland, from where she sailed due west, expecting to reach Asia. However, landfall was reached in North America on 24 June 1497 at Bonavista.
Cabot went ashore to take possession of the land, and explored the coast for some time, probably departing on 20 July. On the homeward voyage his sailors thought they were going too far north, so Cabot sailed a more southerly course, reaching Brittany instead of England. On 6 August he arrived back in Bristol.
A replica sailed the same voyage on the 500th anniversary of the landmark voyage. On 24 June 1997 the replica of the Matthew was welcomed into port at Bonavista by Queen Elizabeth.
A replica of the Matthew is now on display at Bonavista harbour.