Earlier this year, we saw a floating bookshop and the Mexican Navy sail to Singapore for a limited time. Now, the Italian ship, Amerigo Vespucci, has arrived in Singapore and will be docked at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre till 28th October 2024. Here you’ll get to experience Villaggio Italia – a celebration of the culture and food of Italy.
The ship will also be open to the public to explore for free as long you register beforehand. In addition, the Expo Pavilion will have exhibitions, film screenings, and live performances, as well as a restaurant and bar to dine at.
The iconic Amerigo Vespucci is the oldest active military ship in the Italian Navy, having first set sail in 1931. She is mainly used to train cadets in the Naval Academy as well as military school students. Boasting 3 main decks and 2 superstructures, the ship is large enough to house 264 military personnel. And, yes, you will get to see some of this crew in action.
Image credit: @tourvespucci via Instagram
As part of its world tour, the sailing vessel will touch base at over 30 ports in 28 countries, covering 5 continents. The tour started in July 2023 and will end in February 2025. We’re lucky to have the ship docked in Singapore from 24th-28th October 2024.
Image credit: Aditi Kashyap
The next stops on the tour are:
The Italian folks are accomplishing 2 things at once with this voyage – giving their cadets the chance to train with activities around the world and giving visitors a glimpse into Italian culture. At Villaggio Italia, expect to see many, many things Made In Italy, including films, music, art, food, and wine.
Image credit: Aditi Kashyap
Entry to Villaggio Italia is completely free simply by registering online in advance. At the same time, you can opt for the events you are interested in to secure a spot. While walk-ins are allowed, spots are not guaranteed and will be subject to availability on the day and time.
At the time of writing, most of the slots are already sold out but due to high demand limited slots have opened up.
Entry to the cabins (left) and the ship’s bell (right).
Image adapted from: Aditi Kashyap
If you’ve managed to grab a spot, get ready to go on board the beautiful ship to wander around taking photos. Although there is no guided tour, feel free to ask the crew any questions and they’ll try their best to indulge you.
Image credit: Aditi Kashyap
This ticket will also entitle you to entry to the Expo Pavilion where historical and contemporary patents and products made in Italy will be on display.
Image credit: Aditi Kashyap
The same area contains Bar Italia – a tent to taste gelato (from $5), pizza (from $16), and Italian coffee (from $5).
Those in the mood for a little extravagance can choose the Vespucci Special Experience Pass (EUR350, ~S$499) which includes priority access to the Expo Pavilion and Immersive Hall, a tour aboard the ship, and an exclusive gift kit.
We will be saying bella ciao to the ship on 28th October, so note that entry for the public is only till Sunday, 27th October. Don’t forget to bring along a valid ID to enter the cruise terminal.
Admission: Free
Location: Marina Bay Cruise Centre
Dates: 24th-27th October 2024
Time: Fri 4pm-7.30pm | Sat 10am-12pm, 2.30pm-4.30pm | Sun 10.30am-12pm, 3pm-6.30pm
Cover image adapted from: Aditi Kashyap, @tourvespucci via Instagram
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