Given the symbolic and mythic meaning of that promontory, all Navy Ships while in training trips with Naval Academy cadets onboard pay homage to Prince Henry when passing by the site. While the crew is formed, a speech is given about the way in which the principles, the determination and the deeds of the Portuguese sailors resulted in the projection of Portugal into one of the golden periods of the country’s History.

As a result of its enormous symbolic meaning, NRP Sagres displays all the major characteristics of the National Maritime Dimension: the name (Sagres), the figurehead (Prince Henry), and the symbol in the sails (Cross of Christ). Due to the relevant services carried out to Portugal and to the Navy in over 50 years, NRP Sagres is also the most decorated ship, displaying the following ensigns in the National Colours, as well as in the Coat of Arms: Military Order of Christ Medal (2012), Order of Prince Henry Medal (1984), and Vasco da Gama’s Naval Medal (2007).