Puerto Vallarta is preparing to welcome a very special visit: the training ship Amerigo Vespucci, one of the most iconic and beautiful sailing vessels in the world. This magnificent ship, belonging to the Italian Navy, will dock at the port, offering locals and tourists the opportunity to admire its majestic presence and learn more about its rich history and its role in training naval cadets. This visit is part of its second global circumnavigation, which began in June 2023.
History of the Amerigo Vespucci
The Amerigo Vespucci was built in 1930 and named after the Italian explorer and cartographer Amerigo Vespucci. With its classic design, inspired by ancient warships, this sailing vessel has been used as a training ship by the Italian Navy, playing a crucial role in the training of its naval cadets. Throughout its more than 90 years of service, it has traveled around the world, representing Italy at various international events and serving as a floating ambassador of Italian maritime culture and tradition.
Characteristics of the Ship
The Amerigo Vespucci is renowned for its impressive size and elegant design. With a length of 101 meters and a main mast that reaches 54 meters in height, this three-masted sailing ship is a true floating work of art. Its black hull with white stripes and golden details, along with its white canvas sails, create an image reminiscent of the golden age of sailing. Approximately 400 sailors, including naval cadets in training, travel aboard the ship as it crosses three oceans and visits 28 countries over 20 months.
Activities During the Visit
During its stay in Puerto Vallarta, the Amerigo Vespucci will open its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore its decks and learn more about life aboard a training ship. Scheduled activities include:
- Guided Tours: Visitors will be able to tour the ship with guides who will explain its history, features, and operation. This is an excellent opportunity to get a close look at the details of a historic sailing vessel.
- Cultural Exhibits: On board the Amerigo Vespucci, there will be exhibits highlighting Italian maritime history and the life of naval cadets. Visitors can see uniforms, navigation instruments, and other navigation-related artifacts.
- Interaction with the Crew: Visitors will have the chance to interact with crew members, who will share their experiences and anecdotes about life at sea and naval training.
Importance of the Visit
The arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci in Puerto Vallarta is a significant event not only because of the ship's beauty and history but also for its ability to strengthen cultural and educational ties between Italy and Mexico. Such visits promote cultural exchange and allow locals and tourists to appreciate Italy's rich maritime tradition.
How to Attend
The Amerigo Vespucci will arrive in Puerto Vallarta on Tuesday, June 18, and will remain until Sunday, June 23. During its stay, various activities have been scheduled for the public to explore this historic Italian training ship.
Visiting Hours:
- Wednesday, June 19: General public visit from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
- Friday, June 21: Visit for students and the general public from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
- Saturday, June 22: General public visit from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm.
Free Admission and No Reservations Required:
No reservations are needed to visit the ship
. Admission is completely free, and visitors can arrive directly at the dock. It's recommended to arrive early to queue and secure their turn.
This information ensures that interested parties can plan their visit according to the available schedules, ensuring a rewarding experience aboard the Amerigo Vespucci in Puerto Vallarta.
