From 24 to 28 October 2024, the iconic Italian Navy training ship Amerigo Vespucci will grace Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre. As part of its ongoing world tour, the nearly 100-year-old vessel is set to bring a taste of Italian heritage to the Lion City, offering Singaporeans a rare opportunity to explore Italy’s rich maritime traditions and cultural excellence.

The Amerigo Vespucci — often regarded as “the most beautiful ship in the world” — will anchor in Singapore as the 25th stop on its international tour. The ship will be accompanied by the Villaggio Italia — a showcase of Italian art, culture, cuisine, and innovation. This floating exhibition invites visitors on a sensory journey through Italy’s finest exports, including music, cinema, technology, and scientific research.

The official reception begins with an opening ceremony on 24 October, featuring notable figures from both Italy and Singapore. Key attendees include Italy’s Deputy Minister of Enterprise, Valentino Valentini; Italian Ambassador to Singapore, H.E. Dante Brandi; and the Navy’s Chief of Staff, Admiral Enrico Credendino. The evening promises to be a dazzling event, blending diplomacy with a celebration of Italy’s global influence.

During the four days that follow, the public is invited to step aboard the Amerigo Vespucci to experience its legacy first-hand. From Thursday evening through Sunday, the ship will be open for tours, where visitors can learn about its longstanding role in training naval officers and its proud representation of Italy on the global stage.

As part of the Amerigo Vespucci World Tour, the Villaggio Italia will transform Marina Bay Cruise Centre into a vibrant hub of Italian culture. Guests can look forward to an eclectic mix of events, ranging from art exhibits and musical performances to discussions on sustainability, technology, and scientific breakthroughs. This multi-annual exhibition aims to foster a dialogue on strategic issues such as research, entrepreneurship, and future markets.

Supported by Italy’s Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, this tour showcases the best of Italy, from its naval prowess to its entrepreneurial spirit. Singapore, with its global outlook and dynamic economy, is the ideal stage for this Italian celebration, bringing the essence of “Made in Italy” to Southeast Asia. Confindustria, the main association representing manufacturing and service companies in Italy, chooses Singapore’s Villaggio Italia to present the 12th “Exporting the Dolce Vita” Report, which analyses the export potential of Italy’s “beautiful and well-made” products on the international scene, with a focus on the fashion, food, nautical and wood-furniture sectors.

As the Amerigo Vespucci sails across the globe, it carries with it not only the traditions of Italian seafaring but also a modern narrative of innovation and excellence that continues to inspire across continents.

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