Restored Mayflower II makes long-awaited return to Plymouth

A replica of the original Mayflower ship that brought the Pilgrims to America 400 year ago this year is returned home following extensive renovations. | The newly renovated Mayflower II, a replica of the original ship that sailed from England in 1620, sails back to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.

Captain Whit Perry raises his cap as the newly renovated Mayflower II, sails back to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.

The ship began the slow return home last month after spending the last three years in Mystic, Connecticut, getting $11.2 million worth of renovations.

The Mayflower II has been a major tourist attraction and educational tool since it arrived in Plymouth as a gift from England in 1957. | A crew member looks out from the bow of the newly renovated Mayflower II.

Crew members take in the sails of the newly renovated Mayflower II.

Crew members take in the sails of the newly renovated Mayflower II.

The newly renovated Mayflower II passes Bug Light on the way back to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.

The newly renovated Mayflower II, a replica of the original ship that sailed from England in 1620, is preceded by a fire boat as it returns to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.

The newly renovated Mayflower II sails back to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.

Crows of people onshore watch the newly renovated Mayflower II return to its berth in Plymouth, Massachusetts, U.S.