Two Extraordinary Encounters: Vespucci’s Homecoming & the X-Yachts Tuscany Gathering

Sailing Side by Side with a Legend: A Private Moment with the Amerigo Vespucci

You probably know the Amerigo Vespucci – the iconic training ship of the Italian Navy, often described as ”the most beautiful ship in the world” (not just by Italians, but by international admirers too!). In 2023, Vespucci embarked on an incredible round-the-world journey: 20 months, 5 continents, 30 countries, 35 ports, and a whopping 46,000 nautical miles.

On Monday, June 16th, Vespucci finally returned to her home port in La Spezia. The homecoming was spectacular – hundreds of boats gathered to escort her in, a true celebration at sea.

What is the connection to X-Yachts?

Well, here’s the special connection: Claudio Confalonieri, a proud member of the Italian X-Yachts Owner Association and owner of an Xc 42, was once the commander of Vespucci back in 2007–2008. Thanks to his ties with the current commander, something amazing happened…

“Claudio’s Xc 42 and my Xp44 were granted the rare privilege of sailing alongside Vespucci as she approached the Ligurian coast – before the crowds arrived. Just the two of us, quietly under sail, next to this majestic ship. A moment of calm and awe before the sea filled with hundreds of boats. We captured some incredible photos so you can see for yourself,” Mariano Gambino shares, and he continues:

“To me, this was more than just a photo op. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m having a giant poster made of my XP44 sailing silently beside Vespucci. No engine. Just wind and canvas. I don’t think I’ll ever get the chance to relive something quite like it.”

Racing, Bonding, and Aperitifs: A Memorable Weekend at Cala de’ Medici

43° 23.65’N – 010°25.50’E – Cala de’ Medici, Rosignano, Italy

From May 23rd to 25th, along the beautiful Tuscan coast, the second official gathering of the Italian X-Yachts Owners Association was held. We joined the VELACUP – a popular regatta series organized by Il Giornale della Vela. Nine X-Yachts came together for the event, creating a beautiful display of shared passion and performance.

A Challenging Race with Rewarding Results

The regatta on May 24th was a 15-mile triangle course. With 71 boats on the water, conditions were tricky: the wind started light, then died almost completely, before suddenly returning with force (18–20 knots!) and a dramatic shift in direction.

Despite the challenges, our X-Yachts performed brilliantly — several of us won in our class, and all managed solid rankings. But more importantly, we got to sail together, reconnect, and share what makes this X-Community so special.

From Rankings to Reflections

After the race, we gathered aboard the ever-hospitable X56 Joya for a well-earned aperitif – Italian food, wine, and stories flowing as freely as the prosecco.

“This association may still be young (founded just three years ago), but moments like these remind us how much it already means to us. Shared experiences, technical know-how, laughs, plans — this is what it’s all about,” Mariano Gambino tells.

As the weekend came to an end and we set sail again on Sunday the 26th, we carried with us the memory of a great time spent together — and the excitement for what’s to come.

Looking Ahead

We look forward to sharing the next Italian adventure with all of you!

A huge thank you to Mariano Gambino from the Italian X-Yachts Owner Association for sharing these heartfelt stories and unforgettable moments.