Italian
The lagoon city welcomes the Navy Training Ship with a grand water salute
Venice. Venice is preparing to welcome the Amerigo Vespucci, the legendary Navy Training Ship of the Italian Navy, with a grand water tribute. The ship will be docked at Riva San Biasio in Castello from March 27th to 31st, 2025. For the occasion, the Municipality of Venice has organized a grand water salute in collaboration with the city’s rowers, rowing enthusiasts, sports groups, sailing associations, yacht clubs, docks, and anyone who sees the sea as an essential element of their identity.
The morning program was presented at the headquarters of the Mestre Sailing Club, at the San Giuliano Nautical Center, by Mayor Luigi Brugnaro accompanied by the Commander of the Maritime Military Studies Institute and the Military Garrison of Venice, Rear Admiral Domenico Guglielmi, by the Councilor delegated to traditions, Giovanni Giusto, and by the operational director of Vela spa Fabrizio D’Oria.
The evocative water procession, led by the majestic flagship ‘historic Venetian vessel “Serenissima”, will depart at 10:30 am from Punta della Salute and arrive at Riva San Biasio around 11 am. The tribute to the Vespucci will be characterized by a hoisting of the flag preceded by the National Anthem and the Anthem of the Serenissima. A cascade of water, released by a tugboat, will conclude the salute to the majestic vessel.
“The second stage of the ‘Mediterranean Tour’ of the Vespucci Ship will tell the Venetian and Venetian citizens about the important diplomatic and cultural mission carried out by the Ship on its world tour, an interministerial initiative to promote Italy’s image abroad, strengthen international relations, and celebrate the excellence of Made in Italy – Rear Admiral Guglielmi recounted – The stop in Venice of the Vespucci Ship will be a new and additional opportunity to show the strength of the bond that ties the Navy to the city of Venice; a relationship characterized by mutual respect, respect, and a proactive collaborative spirit.”
“It is a privilege to have the Amerigo Vespucci in Venice and an honor to organize a water salute with our Serenissima and rowing boats following – commented Mayor Brugnaro – The Amerigo Vespucci is also linked to the history of Venice, a history that begins at the Arsenal and that over the centuries has established the dominion of the Serenissima as a protagonist of the seas. The ship’s motto is ‘Not who begins but who perseveres’ and expresses the vocation for the training and education of future officers of the Navy. A motto that recalls the history of Venice, a continuous perseverance of work and ingenuity of man in a unique ecosystem as only our great city is. I thank all those who will participate with us in this great sea celebration.”
“It will be a moment of great emotion and pride, Venice embraces the Amerigo Vespucci with the respect and affection reserved for long-time friends – added Councilor Giusto – The Vespucci is not just a ship, it is a piece of history that sails the seas, carrying with it the value of tradition, discipline, and timeless beauty, one of the most beloved symbols of Italian seamanship. It will be an encounter between two souls deeply connected to the water, a dialogue between our lagoon and our indomitable spirit with the most beautiful sailboat in the world.”
“The arrival of the Vespucci Ship is a stepping stone towards the Venice Boat Show, which will take place in the historic Arsenal from May 29th to June 2nd, 2025 – D’Oria concluded – It is a pleasure to renew the collaboration with the Navy, which this year again makes their spaces available at the Arsenal of Venice and organizes guided tours on board the operational means during the Venice Boat Show.”
The visit of the Amerigo Vespucci to Venice represents a unique opportunity to admire up close one of the symbols of Italian seamanship and to celebrate the deep bond that unites the lagoon city with the sea.
