Defining the most beautiful ship in the world is highly subjective as beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. However, there is one that is acclaimed as such, evoking a strong emotional response due to its aesthetics.
The Amerigo Vespucci, often hailed as “the most beautiful ship in the world”, an Italian Navy training ship is a stunning example of classic ship design, with its tall masts, intricate rigging, and elegant lines.
In 1962 the Vespucci ship was crowned the most beautiful ship in the world by the Americans. It happened during a sailing in the Mediterranean, as it crossed the US aircraft carrier USS Independence’s course.
The US military radioed to the crew of the mighty sailing ship, asking: “Who are you?”
“School ship Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy,” was the answer.
“You are the most beautiful ship in the world,” replied the radio operator.
History of the most beautiful ship
In 1925, the Regia Marina ordered two training ships to a design by General Lieutenant Francesco Rotundi of the Italian Navy Engineering Corps, inspired by the style of large late 18th century 74-cannon ships of the line (like the Neapolitan ship Monarca).
The first, the Cristoforo Colombo, was put into service in 1928 and was used by the Italian Navy until 1943. After World War II, this ship was handed over to the USSR as part of the war reparations and was shortly afterward decommissioned.
The second ship was the Amerigo Vespucci, built in 1930 at the (formerly Royal) Naval Shipyard of Castellammare di Stabia (Naples). She was launched on 22 February 1931, and put into service in July of that year. She was named after the famous explorer who gave the Americas their name.
Characteristics of the ship
The vessel is a full-rigged three-masted steel hull 82.4 m (270 ft) long, with an overall length of 101 m (331 ft) including the bowsprit and a maximum width of 15.5 m (51 ft).
She has a draught of about 7 m (23 ft) and a displacement at full load of 4146 tons. Under auxiliary diesel-electric propulsion, the Amerigo Vespucci can reach 10 knots (19 km/h) and has a range of 5450 nm at 6.5 knots.
The three steel masts are 50, 54 and 43 metres high, and carry sails totaling 2,824 m2 (30,400 sq ft). She has 26 sails – square sails, staysails, and jibs: all are traditional canvas sails. When under sail in severe sea and wind conditions she can reach 12 knots (22 km/h).
The hull is painted black with two white stripes, harking back to the two gun decks of the ships her design is based on, but she carries only two 6pdr saluting guns in pivot mountings on the deck, forward of the mainmast.
The deck planks are of teak wood and must be replaced every three years. Bow and stern are decorated with intricate ornaments; she has a life-size figurehead of Amerigo Vespucci. The stern gallery is accessible only through the Captain’s saloon.
Originally designed as a training vessel for naval cadets, the ship has fulfilled this role with distinction for decades. Her elegant lines and impressive sailing capabilities have made her a symbol of Italy and the Italian Navy.
Beyond training, the Amerigo Vespucci has participated in numerous international events, representing Italy with pride. The iconic ship has also been involved in humanitarian missions, demonstrating her versatility.
The ship is essentially a self-contained community. The crew, primarily naval cadets, learn seamanship and the art of living and working together in a confined space.
The Amerigo Vespucci typically sails to various ports around the world as part of its training mission and diplomatic duties. Specific itineraries can vary from year to year, depending on the training requirements and diplomatic engagements.
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