Watch: In A First, World’s Most Beautiful Ship, Amerigo Vespucci, Docks In Mumbai

The 93-year-old Italian naval training ship Amerigo Vespucci, often called the most beautiful ship in the world, has made a grand entrance into Mumbai’s Indira dock.

This is the ship’s first visit to India as part of a world tour covering 30 countries and five continents.

The ship, which set sail from La Spezia on July 1, 2023, has travelled to cities including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Singapore with its crew of 250. Mumbai is its 28th stop, and the visit is more than just a routine port call. It’s a celebration of Italy’s rich maritime heritage and cultural excellence.

For visitors, it’s a rare chance to step aboard the stunning vessel with its polished wooden decks and gleaming brass fittings that have been perfectly preserved. Although the free slots to tour the ship were quickly booked out, the excitement around the visit remains high.

VIDEO | Visuals of opening ceremony of Italian naval ship Amerigo Vespucci that was held in Mumbai earlier today. (n/2)

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Video Credits: Press Trust of India/X

The ship isn’t alone. It brought along “Villaggio Italia,” a mini-expo showcasing the best of Italian culture. From live music by the Italian Air Force band to screenings of films from the Venice International Film Festival, the expo has turned Indira Dock into a slice of Italy.

The exhibition also features Italian design, fashion, and technology, including Moleskine’s Smart Writing Set and the sleek, electric Vespa Elettrica.

Tomaso Ferrando, the ship’s deputy commanding officer, described the Vespucci as “an Italian floating embassy,” emphasising its role in strengthening cultural ties between Italy and India.

He also shared stories from their challenging journey, including navigating the rough waters around Cape Horn with seven-meter-high waves.

VIDEO | Visuals of opening ceremony of Italian naval ship Amerigo Vespucci that was held in Mumbai earlier today. (n/1)

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— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 29, 2024

Video Credits: Press Trust of India/X

Seven Italian dignitaries, including Adolfo Urso, the Minister of Enterprises, and Antonio Bartoli, the Italian Ambassador to India, were present to highlight the importance of this visit.

Ferrando praised India, calling Mumbai a vibrant city and expressing gratitude for the warm welcome.

The Amerigo Vespucci, built in 1931, is essential to the Italian Navy’s training program. Onboard cadets learn traditional navigation skills using only the wind and stars, without any modern automation.

“There’s nothing automatic on this ship,” Ferrando said. “Everything is done manually, just like it was almost 100 years ago.

The ship’s motto, “Non Chi Comincia Ma Quel Che Persevera” (Not who begins, but he who perseveres), reflects this dedication.

For the cadets, this historic vessel isn’t just a training ground. It’s where their journey begins.

References: TOI, Hindustan Times