The Iconic Amerigo Vespucci Visits Mumbai: A Majestic Blend of History, Culture, and Maritime Excellence

Mumbai recently had the honor of hosting the Italian Navy’s legendary training ship, Amerigo Vespucci, a vessel renowned as “the most beautiful ship in the world.” Docked at Indira Dock from November 28 to December 2, 2024, the visit offered a unique opportunity for the people of Mumbai to witness a floating masterpiece of maritime history.

The Amerigo Vespucci: A Glorious Legacy

Launched in 1931, the Amerigo Vespucci is the oldest active ship in the Italian Navy. Named after the Italian explorer and cartographer Amerigo Vespucci, for whom the Americas were named, the ship is a full-rigged sailing vessel with three towering masts and 26 sails, covering an area of over 2,600 square meters. The Amerigo Vespucci is a living tribute to Italy’s seafaring traditions, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern functionality.

The Ship

The Amerigo Vespucci is the Italian Navy’s oldest active military vessel, launched on February 22, 1931, from the Royal Shipyard of Castellammare di Stabia. Designed by Commander Francesco Rotundi, this three-masted sailing ship serves as a training vessel and a symbol of Italian maritime heritage. Its motto, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, is “Not who begins, but he who perseveres,” emphasizing the value of perseverance.

The ship features three main decks—upper, middle, and tween—and two superstructures: the forecastle and the aft castle. A gilded bronze figurehead of Amerigo Vespucci, the 15th-century Italian explorer, adorns the bow. With a length of 82 meters (101 meters overall) and a beam of 15.5 meters, the vessel carries 26 sails totaling 2,650 square meters. Its rigging includes 36 kilometers of ropes, and the masts reach heights of up to 54 meters.

Primarily used for training cadets from the Italian Naval Academy, the Amerigo Vespucci also engages in naval diplomacy and environmental protection initiatives. The crew comprises 264 military personnel, including officers, non-commissioned officers, sergeants, and seamen. During training campaigns, approximately 100 cadets join, bringing the total personnel to around 400.

Throughout its service, the ship has participated in various missions worldwide, promoting Italian culture and maritime tradition. Its current world tour, spanning from 2023 to 2025, includes visits to over 30 ports across five continents, continuing its legacy as a floating ambassador of Italy.

Special Features That Set the Amerigo Vespucci Apart

While the ship’s stunning design and intricate details often leave visitors spellbound, here are some lesser-known facts about this iconic vessel:

• Classic Aesthetics and Functionality: The Amerigo Vespucci features original fittings from the 1930s, including wooden decks and brass accents, alongside state-of-the-art navigation systems. Its combination of historical authenticity and contemporary utility makes it truly unique.
• A Symbol of Diplomacy: Beyond training naval cadets, the ship serves as a goodwill ambassador for Italy. It hosts dignitaries, cultural exhibitions, and promotes Italian excellence globally.
• The “Lights Out” Story: During a naval exercise in the 1960s, the USS Forrestal aircraft carrier asked the Vespucci to identify itself via radio. When the response was, “Training Ship Amerigo Vespucci, Italian Navy,” the Forrestal famously replied, “You are the most beautiful ship in the world.”

The World Tour 2023-2025

The Amerigo Vespucci’s world tour is its first global circumnavigation in two decades. The journey, which began in Genoa, Italy, in July 2023, spans over 40,000 nautical miles across five continents and over 30 ports, including stops in Los Angeles, Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, and Darwin.

In Mumbai, the ship’s visit was marked by public tours and a cultural showcase under the “Villaggio Italia” initiative. This exhibition celebrated Italian art, cuisine, and design, creating a cultural bridge between Italy and India.

The La David Jago Statue: A Monument of Valor

Adjacent to the Amerigo Vespucci at Indira Dock stands the La David Jago Statue, a tribute to the courage and resilience of sailors worldwide. The statue commemorates the legacy of La David Jago, a heroic Italian naval officer known for his unparalleled bravery during World War II. Positioned prominently near the ship, the statue serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by maritime heroes.

A Musical Tribute to Maritime Heritage

Adding to the grandeur of the Amerigo Vespucci’s visit to Mumbai was a mesmerizing concert by the Italian Air Force Band, held in honor of the iconic ship’s arrival. The concert featured the renowned artist Natalie Di Luccio, whose soulful performance captivated the audience and beautifully complemented the band’s powerful symphonies. This musical event not only celebrated the historic docking of the Amerigo Vespucci but also highlighted the deep cultural and artistic ties between Italy and India, making the occasion a truly unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Mumbai’s Experience with the Amerigo Vespucci

The Amerigo Vespucci’s stop in Mumbai wasn’t merely a docking event; it was a cultural celebration. Visitors marveled at the ship’s grandeur, participated in guided tours led by naval cadets, and experienced Italian traditions firsthand through the “Villaggio Italia” exhibition. The synergy between the historic vessel and the La David Jago statue further enriched the event, offering a profound appreciation of maritime history and valor.

The Amerigo Vespucci’s visit to Mumbai was more than a mere stopover; it was a historical event that brought together the past and the present. As the ship sails on to its next destination, it leaves behind memories of its magnificence, the legacy of Italian seafaring, and a renewed appreciation for maritime diplomacy and cultural exchange.

Mumbai bid farewell to the Amerigo Vespucci, but its visit has undoubtedly etched an indelible mark on the city’s maritime history.