The Amerigo Vespucci, the famous Italian Navy sailing ship, departed Tokyo Bay today after a historic visit—its first to Japan in its 94-year history. This visit marks a special moment not only for its historical significance but also for the involvement of young Japanese sailors who boarded the ship thanks to the "Sail4Change" educational project by One Ocean Foundation.

"Sail4Change" is an educational initiative created and promoted by One Ocean Foundation developed with the support of the Italian Navy and World Sailing. The initiative aims to raise awareness among young sailors worldwide about the greatest challenge of our time: climate change and its impact on the ocean. Young participants are invited to take part in a challenge by creating drawings or other artistic materials that serve as awareness tools, representing the issues facing the seas. Winners — by a scientific committee — have the opportunity to board the historic ship Amerigo Vespucci during its stops, thanks to the support of the Italian Navy personnel.

After stops in America, which saw the participation of over 80 young people from more than 15 nationalities, it was Japan's turn. In Tokyo, the young participants, accompanied by the Vice President of the Japan Sailing Federation, had the unique opportunity to engage in an educational experience aboard the Amerigo Vespucci, delving into the challenges related to marine environmental protection and learning sustainability practices directly from the crew members.

The collaboration between the Italian Navy and One Ocean Foundation represents an important step in promoting greater global awareness among the younger generations, emphasizing the importance of concrete actions to safeguard our planet.

With its departure from Tokyo, the journey of the Amerigo Vespucci and the "Sail4Change" project continues, carrying not only the history and tradition of the Italian Navy but also a message of sustainability and environmental responsibility shared with young people worldwide.