Replica’s of Christopher Columbus’ famous ships, the Nina (left) and Pinta (right), will visit Pensacola from December 23 through January 3 as part of Pensacola’s 450th Celebration. The public is welcome to visit and explore the ships daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during their stay. The Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce has some excellent vacation packages for those visiting the area during the holiday season. Throughout 2009, Pensacola has celebrated its 450th anniversary with an array of historic events. To top off the birthday year, the Pinta and the Nina, replicas of Christopher Columbus’ ships, will visit the Pensacola Bay Area Dec. 23 through Jan. 3.

While at dock on Palafox Pier in historic Downtown Pensacola, the public is invited to visit the ships for walkaboard, self-guided tours. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for children. Children 4 and under are free. The ship is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Nina is a historically correct replica, built completely by hand. The ship was used in the production of the film “1492.” The Pinta, recently built in Brazil to accompany the Nina, is a larger version of the archetypal caravel.

Couple a visit to the ship with an overnight stay in Pensacola. The following holiday packages are available:

 Two-night Getaway at Portofino Island –- Stay in a luxurious two-bedroom condo with views of Pensacola Bay, Gulf Islands National Seashore or the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy free golf, deep-sea fishing and other amenities including a water taxi and indoor pool. Price is $500. (850) 454-2341.

 Christmas in Downtown Pensacola – Spend Christmas at the Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Pensacola. Relax on our beaches, explore historic downtown Pensacola, dine on coastal cuisine and spend quality time together. Price is $99. (850) 439-3330.

 Nina and the Pinta Tall Ship/Small Price – Enjoy an overnight stay at the Red Roof Inn before exploring the beautiful tall ships. Price is $49.99. (850) 476-7960.

 White Christmas in Perdido Key – Plan a family vacation in Perdido Key, along the sugar-white shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Stay three to five nights and get a night free, or stay seven nights and get two nights free. Prices are $155-$335 per night. (800) 523-8141.

 New Year’s Eve for Two in Downtown Pensacola – The Courtyard by Marriott is offering an overnight stay, two admissions to Seville Quarter’s New Year’s Eve Gala, complimentary shuttle to and from the party, a morning after survival kit, breakfast and late checkout. Price is $189. (850) 439-3330.

 New Year’s Eve on Pensacola Beach – Join the fun, festivities, and fireworks this New Year’s Eve on Pensacola Beach. Book a Gulfview room at the Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach Gulf Front and receive champagne and party favors. Offer valid Dec. 31-Jan 3. Price is $110. (850) 932-6800

For more information about the Pensacola Bay Area, or to request a Visitor Guide, call the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 874-1234, (850) 434- 1234 or visit www.VisitPensacola.com.