World's 'Most Beautiful Ship' Amerigo Vespucci Docks at Manila Port

[Lee]

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Dubbed the world’s most beautiful ship, the Amerigo Vespucci has docked at Pier 15 of Manila South Harbor for a historic visit. At 93 years old, the vessel is said to symbolize Italy’s rich maritime heritage and diplomatic commitment.

 

Commander Giuseppe Lai, who oversees the vessel, reported a successful arrival in Manila following a two-week journey from Tokyo. Despite initial concerns about weather, including a near-miss with a typhoon, the voyage proceeded smoothly. "The navigation was smooth after the initial weather concerns, with no significant encounters aside from a few merchant vessels en route," Lai told reporters.

Known for its role as a training vessel for naval cadets, the ship now offers the public a rare opportunity to explore its marvelous decks. Meanwhile, 400 naval cadets and crew onboard will be engaged in both training and cultural exchange activities throughout their stay in Manila.

All Aboard Amerigo Vespucci

Named in honor of the 15th-century Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci—after whom America was also named, ICYDK—the ship first set sail from its home port in Genoa, Italy, on February 22, 1931. Measuring 100.50 meters in length and with a gross tonnage of 3,410 tons, the Amerigo Vespucci stands as a marvel of nautical design.

Beyond its technical prowess, the vessel is celebrated for its beauty. In 1962, during an encounter with the USS Independence of the U.S. Navy, it was dubbed "the most beautiful ship in the world," a title that has become an enduring part of its legacy. 

The ship’s hull is adorned in black, gold, and white, with white bands and portholes that hark back to 19th-century ships. The golden figurehead of Vespucci, along with the gold-trimmed wooden decorations on the bow and stern, further enhance the boat's classic appearance.

Currently on a sweeping 20-month global voyage that began in July 2023, the Amerigo Vespucci has already traversed Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Its Asian and Oceanian leg started in Tokyo, Japan, with Manila being one of the pivotal stops in this grand world tour.

During its stay in Manila, the Amerigo Vespucci will serve as both a floating classroom and a cultural ambassador, showcasing Italian heritage and fostering stronger ties with the Philippines. This visit aligns with Italy’s broader strategic interests in maritime security, following recent deployments of Italian naval assets such as the ITS Cavour and ITS Alpino in the region.

World's 'Most Beautiful Ship' Amerigo Vespucci Docks at Manila Port (msn.com)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want to catch a glimpse of the ship? The Tour Vespucci is offering free deck tours until September 17! 

[GeoffH]

Even for a tall ship that's a spectacular looking vessel 🤩

Edited September 16 by GeoffH

[JJReyes]

I recall visiting Mexico's training ship in Manila and another from Denmark.  No desire becoming a naval cadet and sleeping in canvas hammocks.

[Possum]

7 hours ago, Lee said:

Known for its role as a training vessel for naval cadets, the ship now offers the public a rare opportunity to explore its marvelous decks. Meanwhile, 400 naval cadets and crew onboard will be engaged in both training and cultural exchange activities throughout their stay in Manila.

The cultural exchange activities are what most cadets look forward to above all else.

[Mike J]

The 40 meter Philippine Siren is a live aboard dive boat that visits various Philippine sites while hosting scuba aficionados.  This is also a fantastic looking ship.  I have seen it multiple times anchored off our back deck.  I is a real temptation to have a vacation aboard even though I do not dive.  Below are two pictures and also the URL for more info.

https://masterliveaboards.com/boats/philippine-siren/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwrp-3BhDgARIsAEWJ6Sy63iZ5O2daBRfoyVayFg33shSznvxBBwBlvIo_tHvddLngWxHk6uIaApzeEALw_wcB

 

[OnMyWay]

7 hours ago, Possum said:

The cultural exchange activities are what most cadets look forward to above all else.

 

7 hours ago, Possum said:

400 naval cadets

That's a lot of semen.

 

[MotorSarge]

28 minutes ago, OnMyWay said:

 

That's a lot of semen.

 

Semen - Wikipedia

Semen....As you spell....On My Way.

"Seamen" spelled in Subic....back then.

Edited September 17 by MotorSarge

[JJReyes]

8 hours ago, Possum said:

The cultural exchange activities are what most cadets look forward to above all else.

I was part of a volunteer group hosting cultural visitors ranging from French ballet dancers (they wanted to ride a jeepney) to American and Australian sailors.  In exchange, we were given tours of ships including cargo transports, destroyers, all the way to aircraft carriers.  

What surprised me about the Danish sailing ship is female cadets sleep in their underwear is a communal dorm setting.  This happens while in the tropics because ventilation in the lower decks is very poor.  The junior officer conducting the tour said that there is no hanky-panky because everyone is tired from all the work.  Besides, a canvas hammock for one is not conducive for extracurricular activities.  

Most difficult task is climbing the masts to trim the sails in all kinds of weather.

[jimeve]

4 hours ago, OnMyWay said:

That's a lot of semen.

The was an English goalkeeper called David Seamen their own fans nick-named him 'Spunky' True.

[OnMyWay]

4 hours ago, MotorSarge said:

Semen - Wikipedia

Semen....As you spell....On My Way.

"Seamen" spelled in Subic....back then.

Either way you spell it, it is still a lot, considering all the "cultural exchanging" that will go on.