The arrival of the Legion troops at the port of Málaga in 2026 will be remembered for several significant events. After the consolidation of pier number two for this act, the first relevant detail was the notable maritime presence that accompanied the transport ship.

Unlike previous years, where the presence of smaller boats was scarce, this Holy Thursday a considerable flotilla escorted the legionaries from the mouth of the port to the Palmeral de las Sorpresas. Dozens of vessels, including a Civil Guard patrol boat and the traditional tourist swallows, formed a varied group of yachts, sailboats, and even rowing boats.

Another curiosity of the day was the decoration of the Baleària ferry Rusadir, which covers the route between Málaga and Melilla. This Cypriot ship, which since 2024 has been adorned for the Virgen del Carmen, decorated its bow to welcome the legionary troops.

The Spanish Navy ship Galicia L-51 was the main protagonist, making its first legionary disembarkation in Málaga. This vessel, common in Málaga waters, continued a tradition that began in April 1950, when the Navy took over the transport of the tercio troops.

Although the event proceeded normally, the choice of the Galicia revived a recurring issue: its great height makes the legionaries' visibility difficult. Unlike previous ships such as El Camino Español (2010), the Contramaestre Casado, or the Furor, with much lower decks, the legionaries aboard the Galicia in 2026 were seen at a considerable height.