The Amerigo Vespucci Rounds Cape Horn: A Journey of Italian Pride and Excellence

On a day that will go down in the history of Italian navigation, the Amerigo Vespucci, emblem of Italy in the world, has marked an unprecedented milestone by rounding Cape Horn for the first time. This passage, known for being one of the most difficult in the world due to the disturbances created by its proximity to Antarctica, testifies to the skill and determination of the crew of the historic training ship of the Italian Navy.

Departing from the port of Genoa on July 1, 2023, under the will of the Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto, the sailing ship embarked on a world tour aimed at promoting the excellence of Made in Italy. Crosetto expressed great pride in this significant achievement, highlighting the value of the Amerigo Vespucci as a symbol of Italian excellence and the pride of Defense.

The mission of the Vespucci is not only a demonstration of nautical mastery but also a unique opportunity to convey Italian values and excellence in over 30 ports of 28 countries, across five continents. Each stop is an opportunity to combine the training activity of the officer cadets with the promotion of Italian excellence, through the setting up of the “Villaggio Italia”, an exhibition of the virtues and culture of the Bel Paese.

The motto of the Amerigo Vespucci, "Not he who begins but he who perseveres", resonates powerfully aboard a ship that this year turned 93, remaining the oldest naval unit in active service in the Navy. With its three vertical masts and 24 sails, the ship presents a spectacular maritime profile, capable of reaching a speed of 14.6 knots.

The crew, composed of 264 military personnel, one hundred annual cadets, and support staff from the Naval Academy, lives and operates in an environment of close collaboration and continuous learning. The training provided during these campaigns has proven crucial for the cadets of the first class of the Naval Academy, contributing to the professional growth of generations of sailors.

Commander Giuseppe Lai, at the helm during the passage at Cape Horn, expressed his emotion and pride for the milestone achieved, highlighting the profound significance of this feat for the crew and for the entire country.

As the Amerigo Vespucci prepares to enter the port of Valparaiso, Chile, on April 28, Italy as a whole celebrates this historic ship, recognizing its role as an ambassador of Italian excellence on the seas of the world. With its second world tour, the Amerigo Vespucci continues to sail not only across the oceans but in the hearts of anyone who appreciates the mastery, tradition, and spirit of adventure that define Italy.