A stunning replica of Noah’s Ark has arrived at Ipswich waterfront for a short time only.

Ipswich Star: Noah's Ark docks at Ipswich Waterfront Picture: ADAM HOWLETTNoah's Ark docks at Ipswich Waterfront Picture: ADAM HOWLETT (Image: Archant)

The 70m long vessel, based on the famous bible story, arrived at Orwell Quay, near Cult Cafe early on Saturday morning.

What is the Ark?

Housing a museum which also includes a 12ft tall Tree of Life, the ark in its current form is the creation of Dutch artist and TV producer Sir Aad Peters.

Inside are quirky and creative sculptures telling the story of the bible through Sir Peter's artistic vision.

Ipswich Star: The huge vessel will open to the public on Friday, November 15 Picture: ADAM HOWLETTThe huge vessel will open to the public on Friday, November 15 Picture: ADAM HOWLETT (Image: Archant)

Sir Peters said it is not a Christian centre, but instead hopes the ark can be a centre of learning, where people from a range of cultures and beliefs can come together and share their stories.

Why has it come to Ipswich?

Ipswich is the latest of European destinations to house the vessel, which has previously visited Norway, the Netherlands and Germany.

This is the first time it has docked in the UK.

It has so far welcomed more than 500,000 visitors since it set sail in 2010.

How long will it be there for?

Sir Peters hopes to keep it in Ipswich for up to three months, in what organisers are calling a "once in a lifetime" visit.

Open to the general public from Friday, November 15 - the Ark is also dog friendly.

Ipswich Star: The replica ark, which docked at Ipswich Waterfront on Saturday morning, is around 70m long Picture: ADAM HOWLETTThe replica ark, which docked at Ipswich Waterfront on Saturday morning, is around 70m long Picture: ADAM HOWLETT (Image: Archant)

It will be open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Sunday.

How much does it cost?

Adult tickets are priced at £16.50, with children under 14 at £9.50.

Discounted tickets are also available for students, seniors and disabled people for £12.50, while school tickets, family tickets and group tickets also available.

Ipswich Star: A replica of Noah's Ark arrives through the lock at ABP's Port of Ipswich Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP IpswichA replica of Noah's Ark arrives through the lock at ABP's Port of Ipswich Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP Ipswich (Image: � Stephen Waller)

A discount of 20% is available on Mondays.

Ipswich Star: A replica of Noah's Ark arrives at ABP's Port of Ipswich Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP IpswichA replica of Noah's Ark arrives at ABP's Port of Ipswich Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP Ipswich (Image: � Stephen Waller)

Ipswich Star: The ark is open to the public from Friday, November 15 Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP IpswichThe ark is open to the public from Friday, November 15 Picture: Stephen Waller / ABP Ipswich (Image: � Stephen Waller)