Italian Navy Tall Ship Makes Rare UK Visit

An Italian Navy tall ship, once described as the most beautiful ship in the world, has visited the UK.

ITS Amerigo Vespucci is named after an Italian explorer from the 1400s.

She was dubbed as the most beautiful ship in the world by crew onboard aircraft carrier USS Independence.

The 87-year-old vessel, which is 164 feet tall and has 26 sails, is now used as a training ship for officer cadets in the Italian Navy.

After docking in Portsmouth, Captain Roberto Recchia, Commanding Officer, told Forces News: "Something unique (about ITS Amerigo Vespucci) and absolutely fantastic. 

"If you think that exactly 30 years ago, I was a Cadet here onboard and then after 30 years I'm here as a Commanding Officer - it's a really big emotion."

It is the eleventh visit ITS Amerigo Vespucci has made to Portsmouth since her maiden voyage in 1953.

Marta Dabala, Midshipman 1st Class, said: "For me, it's a dream that's come true."

Also at the dockyard was Commodore Jim Higham, Commander of Porstmouth Naval Base, he said: "Italy is a great ally of ours and its just been wonderful to be able to host them here in Portsmouth, exchange ideas, the opportunity for our teams to meet their teams.

"And she (ITS Amerigo Vespucci) is just a beautiful ship...she's just stunning, so fantastic to welcome her here."

Hundreds of people are expected to see the ship in Portsmouth this weekend before she sets sail for France.