Tunisia: Amerigo Vespucci At La Goulette Port - Tunisian-Italian Maritime Cooperation in Spotlight

What the report says

The Italian Navy training ship Amerigo Vespucci is docked at La Goulette port in Tunis as part of a stopover running from October 31 to November 3, according to Tunis Afrique Presse. The visit has put Tunisian-Italian maritime cooperation in focus, with Italian Ambassador to Tunisia Alessandro Prunas describing the vessel as an example of partnership in maritime training, naval diplomacy and marine environmental protection.

During an organized visit for Tunisian journalists, the ambassador said 15 cadet officers from the Tunisian Navy took part in the ship’s latest sailing campaign. He said the experience allowed them to train alongside Italian counterparts and learn how life and work aboard a historic sailing ship differs from other naval training settings.

The Amerigo Vespucci is the oldest ship still in service with the Italian Navy and is celebrating its 95th anniversary this year. Built in the early 1930s, it has long served as a training vessel for officers. Its commander, Nicasio Falica, said the ship’s mission goes beyond navigation skills to include discipline, teamwork and adapting to sea conditions.

The report also noted the ship’s broader diplomatic and environmental role. After a months-long voyage that included ports in the United States and Canada, the vessel returned to Europe before reaching Tunisia. Italian officials said it also carries a message about protecting oceans and marine ecosystems, linking maritime heritage with contemporary environmental awareness.