Late in 2024 the sailing vessel, hailed as “the most beautiful ship in the world”, visited Phuket. exotiqPhuket tracked her arrival as she gracefully sailed across the Andaman Sea on a diplomatic visit to Thailand
By: Christopher Lee
The I T S A m e r i g o V e s p u c c i is part of the Italian Navy, but she is not merely a ‘ship’; she is a living embodiment of Italy’s maritime heritage and one of the most striking ambassadors on the high seas.
A LEGACY OF ELEGANCE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
Launched in 1931, the ITS Amerigo Vespucci was built in Castellammare di Stabia, near Naples. She was designed by Lieutenant Colonel Francesco Rotundi to resemble the 18th-century ships of the line. This three-masted full-rigged ship stands as a homage to a bygone era of sail while incorporating modern functionality. Named after the famed Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, for whom the Americas were named, the ship represents a rich history of exploration and discovery.
She measures 101 metres (331 feet) in length, with a hull painted in alternating black and white stripes reminiscent of historical ships, with her three towering masts rising proudly into the sky. Constructed primarily of steel but fitted with wooden decks and brass fixtures, the vessel radiates a sense of timeless elegance. Her rigging consists of over 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) of ropes and sails, requiring tremendous skill and teamwork to manage.
A FLOATING ACADEMY
The ITS Amerigo Vespucci serves as a training vessel for the Italian Navy. Each year, naval cadets embark on this ship to learn the intricacies of seamanship, leadership, and teamwork. For these cadets, the ship is more than a classroom—it is a place where they connect with centuries-old maritime traditions while preparing for modern naval challenges.
Life aboard the ITS Amerigo Vespucci is rigorous. Cadets must adapt to the rhythms of the sea, mastering everything from navigating by the stars to climbing the masts to adjust sails. This experience fosters resilience and discipline, qualities essential for any naval officer. Yet, the ship’s purpose extends beyond the practical—she instils a deep appreciation for Italy’s seafaring heritage.
AN AMBASSADOR OF ITALY
While the ITS Amerigo Vespucci primarily serves as a training vessel, she also fulfills an important diplomatic role. The ship frequently embarks on international tours, visiting ports around the globe to showcase Italian naval excellence and cultural pride. Her presence is a spectacle, drawing crowds eager to glimpse her stunning design and meet her crew.
The ship’s motto, “Non chi comincia ma quel che perservera”, (Not he who begins, but he who perseveres), is a testament to her enduring spirit. This message resonates with those who witness the ship’s grandeur, reminding them of the importance of determination and legacy.
In 1962, the ITS Amerigo Vespucci famously crossed paths with the USS Independence, a giant U.S. aircraft carrier. When asked by radio, “Who are you?” the captain replied, “The most beautiful ship in the world.” This moment solidified the ITS Amerigo Vespucci’s reputation as a paragon of maritime beauty and excellence.
A VISITOR’S EXPERIENCE
For tourists fortunate enough to step aboard during the ship’s visit to Phuket, the experience was unforgettable. Visitors explored her polished wooden decks, marvelled at the intricacy of her rigging, and learned about her storied history from the enthusiastic crew. The ship’s interior features a museum-like atmosphere, with displays of artefacts, maps, and photographs that chronicle her voyages.
A visit to the ITS Amerigo Vespucci is not just about admiring craftsmanship—it’s about connecting with a legacy. Every detail, from the cannons displayed on deck to the traditional sailing techniques employed by the crew, evokes the spirit of the age of exploration.