Motion,
Discovery,
Wonder
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There is a kind of beauty that defies time, a sense of wonder that only Venice can evoke. Last Sunday, the waters of the Serenissima became the stage for an extraordinary event: the tribute of the lagoon city to the Amerigo Vespucci, the iconic training ship of the Italian Navy. An emotional occasion where tradition, identity, and national pride came together in a unique spectacle—raised oars, solemn anthems, and golden reflections on the water.
Launched in 1931 at the Castellammare di Stabia shipyards, the Amerigo Vespucci is one of the most iconic ships in the world. Designed to train future officers of the Italian Navy, today it serves as an ambassador of Made in Italy across the world’s oceans. With its black hull accented by white bands, wooden masts, majestic sails, and meticulously detailed interiors, it stands as a symbol of elegance and maritime tradition passed down through generations
The Amerigo Vespucci is the oldest vessel still in service in the Italian Navy and proudly bears its famous motto: “Not he who begins, but he who perseveres,” attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. This philosophy has accompanied her for over ninety years, during which she has trained generations of sailors and young members of sailing associations. But she is more than a training ship: she is also a symbol of environmental and social commitment, thanks to partnerships with UNICEF, WWF, and Marevivo.
Since July 1, 2023, she has set sail on a new circumnavigation of the globe: an epic 20-month journey touching five continents, 30 countries, 35 ports, and covering over 46,000 nautical miles. The 2023–2025 World Tour combines education, diplomacy, and culture, becoming a true traveling embassy of Italy. In eight international stops, the Villaggio Italia welcomes visitors, institutions, and businesses with exhibitions, events, and installations showcasing the best of Italian excellence.
Leading the majestic parade was the historic flagship Serenissima, followed by more than a hundred boats: from traditional rowing vessels to motorboats, sailing clubs to dockyards, law enforcement vessels to working boats. A living, pulsing river that made its way from Punta della Salute to Riva San Biasio—a collective tribute involving athletes, associations, and everyday citizens, all united under the Italian tricolor.
To welcome the Vespucci, a symbolic gesture of respect and admiration: the alzaremi—oars raised high—accompanied by the solemn notes of the National Anthem and the Hymn of Saint Mark. Then came the sound of ship sirens, water jets from tugboats, and the powerful echo of a shared emotion.
It’s more than just a legend. In 1962, while sailing the Mediterranean, the American ship USS Independence approached and radioed: “Who are you?” The reply came: “Training Ship Amerigo Vespucci, Italian Navy.” The historic response: “You are the most beautiful ship in the world.” Since then, that title has lived in the hearts of every Italian sailor.
This moment was not only a tribute to the magnificence of the Vespucci, but also a symbolic gesture telling of the deep bond between Venice and the sea. A city that lives on water, communicates through water, works, and dreams with it. And thanks to events like this, it continues to preserve and renew its identity—suspended between history and the future.
The farewell to the Vespucci is destined to remain etched in the collective memory of those who were there—and of those who, even for a moment, felt their hearts beat to the rhythm of the Venetian waves.