The historic Italian naval vessel, Amerigo Vespucci, has arrived in Montreal, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step onto the iconic tall ship. Built in 1931, the ship has retained much of its original charm and is a testament to maritime history.
Vice Admiral Aurelio De Carolis, the fleet commander of the Italian Navy, emphasized that the Amerigo Vespucci remains true to its roots, exactly as it was when it set sail 95 years ago. After leaving Italy in May, the ship completed most of its transatlantic journey under sail, making stops in the United States before reaching Quebec, with Montreal being its second stop in the province.
Captain Nicasio Falica, in charge of the Amerigo Vespucci, highlighted the significance of visiting cities like Quebec City and Montreal, where there are vibrant Italian communities. The North American tour serves as a platform for training, cultural exchange, and naval diplomacy.
During their stay in Montreal, the crew engaged with local institutions, such as Polytechnique Montréal, to discuss navigation, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. The setting of the ship, close to its 100th anniversary, provided a unique backdrop for these important conversations.
The Amerigo Vespucci continues to function as a training vessel, with cadets mastering traditional sailing techniques using 36 kilometers of rope. Technically classified as a three-masted vessel, it boasts 2,600 square meters of sails crafted from natural fibers, showcasing the enduring allure of classic maritime craftsmanship.
The ship’s recent voyage across the Atlantic showcased the prowess of its crew, who relied on age-old sailing methods to reach North America. The crew size fluctuates, with naval cadets augmenting the usual complement of 240 crew members, bringing the current total to 406 people on board.
Montreal’s Old Port will host the Amerigo Vespucci until August 3, offering the public a chance to explore the ship for free this weekend. Tours will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
