After a successful tour, the Amerigo Vespucci arrives in Ravenna, where it will stay for five days from October 14 to 18 at the city’s Marina. If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping aboard Italy’s most famous training ship and the world’s most beautiful sailing vessel, you can do it… and for free.
There are free visits to book and a calendar of events that’s truly unmissable; here’s what you should know and which events are planned for this exceptional occasion.
The Amerigo Vespucci in Ravenna, dates and info
Get your smartphones ready, because this is one of those occasions that deserves at least a photo. From October 14 to 18, the Amerigo Vespucci will stop at Marina di Ravenna, after having concluded the World Tour – North America Campaign 2026 in Trieste. The historic ship of the Italian Navy arrives to pay homage to Ravenna, the Italian Capital of the Sea 2026, a distinction that this year has highlighted the relationship between the city and its maritime territory.
The arrival was announced in July by Mayor Alessandro Barattoni, following a meeting in New York with Commander Nicasio Falica, during the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of American independence. The vessel, nicknamed the most beautiful ship in the world, is set to become one of the stars of Ravenna’s autumn. Near the dock you’ll also find the Ravenna Village, featuring stalls, local realities and cultural institutions involved in the path that led to the designation as Capital of the Sea.
Given the expected attendance, it’s advised to use the free shuttles available at the parking areas of Via del Marchesato, Piazzale della Marina and Piazzale Adriatico, which will operate from 14 to 17 October, from 1:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
The events on the program
After the success in Trieste during Barcolana, the sailing vessel moves on to Ravenna, where days filled with events await. It’s not only about visiting the ship; there are plenty of engagements planned. Friday, October 16 at 9:00 PM, the Teatro Alighieri will host a free concert by the Departmental Band of the Italian Navy. An opportunity to experience the event’s atmosphere even from a distance from the port. There are even extraordinary openings of the Ravenna Marina Lighthouse, with information available on the Ravenna Turismo website. From October 14 to 17 you can also visit for free the MAS – Museum of Underwater Activities, to discover another facet of the maritime world.
How to go aboard the Amerigo Vespucci for free
Want to see up close what a ship that has crossed oceans looks like? Mark this: entry is free, but a ticket is mandatory. Official booking opens on Sunday, October 11 on the Visit Ravenna portal, with a maximum of 4 tickets per person available. Note the dates: the ship will remain in Ravenna until October 18, but on-board visits are scheduled only from October 14 to 17, with access from Via della FocaMonica to the Ravenna Marina.
Here are the times to plan your visit:
- Wednesday, October 14: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM;
- Thursday, October 15: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM;
- Friday, October 16: 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM;
- Saturday, October 17: 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
If you intend to participate, don’t leave it to the last moment: the allure of the Amerigo Vespucci needs no introduction, and this is a truly special occasion… spots are selling fast and there’s a risk of a sold-out, so it’s best to book early before it’s too late.
