Vespucci Tour

Flying the Italian Flag Across the World

Timeless symbol of Italy's authentic soul

A living legend that still sails the seas, the Amerigo Vespucci is an authentic embodiment of the very soul of Italy. More than just a sailing ship, for over a century this Italian icon has stood out as a symbol of tradition and beauty. In a world where all eyes are fixed on the future, the Vespucci becomes an important reminder of just how important it is to know our roots. Through her fascinating 20-month-long voyage, the Vespucci has become an ambassador of Italian creativity and ingenuity, sharing the country’s excellence with every corner of the globe. An extraordinary journey that spans 40,000 nautical miles, 5 continents, 3 oceans, and 36 ports in 31 different countries, the Vespucci’s tour will reach its conclusion in February. The end of a mission that goes far beyond the mere thrill of sailing: her mission is a celebration of the ingenuity, creativity and design that make Italy so unique in the eyes of the world.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will also be in Jeddah, visiting for the first time on board the historic sailing ship and training ship for the Italian Navy.

Showcasing the Wonders of Italian Genius

A core element of the Amerigo Vespucci’s mission has been the exhibition entitled “Italia Geniale”, organised in partnership with the Italian Defense Ministry’s in-house company Difesa Servizi and Milan’s ADI Design Museum. Curated by professors Carlo Martino and Francesco Zurlo, “Italia Geniale” has celebrated the very best of Italian design, showcasing the stories of innovation and creativity that have made Italy famous throughout the world. This particular version of the exhibition, tailored specifically to accompany the Vespucci on her tour around the world, has featured images, materials and iconic products representing the pinnacle of Italian excellence, exhibits that embody key elements such as imagination, hard work, well-being and the relationships that are formed between people. The event has become an exceptionally popular attraction, bringing every port the ship visited to life. Where the Vespucci docks, the Villaggio Italia follows, an exhibition area that has welcomed visitors of all nationalities, captivating them with the quality and beauty that define Italy. Visitors have already enjoyed the “Italia Geniale” experience in 7 major cities: Los Angeles, Tokyo, Darwin, Singapore, Mumbai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. The final leg will see the Vespucci land in Jeddah. Each edition of the exhibition throughout the ship’s voyage around the world has become a unique opportunity to build cultural and commercial bridges, consolidating the image of Italy as a global leader in creative excellence. The starting point for the exhibition as a whole has always been to honour the heritage of the country's brands and patents, touching on material culture and technical culture, all interwoven within the history of design.

SLAM and the Vespucci: The Perfect Partners

Joining the companies taking part in the exhibition, the SLAM brand is also on board the Amerigo Vespucci, representing its tradition and innovation in the field of technical clothing for the nautical sector. The PRO WOMAN RACING JACKET is a perfect example of how Italian craftsmanship is able combine aesthetics and functionality. Designed for women who are passionate about the sea and sailing, this jacket is a symbol of resistance and cutting-edge technological innovation and is displayed alongside other examples of creative excellence that best embody the pinnacle of Italian design, all within the exhibition area of the Villaggio Italia.

A Voyage Inspired by Passion and Pride

Having set sail from Genoa, the Amerigo Vespucci has landed in many iconic ports, bringing with it the message that Italy looks to the future, while never forgetting its roots. The sailing ship – itself an authentic emblem of tradition and beauty – has been the ideal stage from which to share stories of success and innovation with the world, showcasing the best our country has to offer.

The next and final leg will see the Vespucci end her tour in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where she will remain from 27th to 30th January 2025. The final port will be another exceptional opportunity to bring cultures together and strengthen ties, before concluding such an extraordinary voyage.

The Amerigo Vespucci is more than just a sailing ship: it is an ambassador capable of sharing the timeless values of Made in Italy design with the world, demonstrating how Italian excellence combines tradition and innovation, elegance and functionality. She is a symbol that reminds us how important it is to sail towards new horizons, without ever losing sight of the beauty that makes us unique.

Author: ELENA GIOLAI/SLAM