A U.S. ambassador-designate, Tilman Fertitta, arrived in Venice aboard his 117-meter private yacht as part of a Coastal Diplomacy 250 tour marking 250 years of American independence, drawing protests from local residents.

Protesters in Venice criticized U.S. policies, voiced solidarity with Palestinians, and demanded Fertitta leave, chanting slogans such as 'Fertitta must go' and 'No space for billionaires.'

Authorities noted the protests would overlap with the Festa del Redentore, heightening security and the potential for disruption in a city already managing large crowds and events.

The piece is reported by the Associated Press and is part of AP coverage.

The report notes the episode as part of a broader diplomatic visit rather than a routine embassy engagement.

Italy is bearing substantial security costs for the yacht’s movements, with the total figure undisclosed, as authorities cite the Vienna Convention obligation to shield foreign ambassadors.

The event occurred on a Friday, with coverage highlighting the yacht as central to Fertitta’s diplomatic visit.

A Green-Left Alliance lawmaker criticized the tour in parliament, calling it a 'diplomatic vacation' that shifts costs to Italy’s budget.

The Boardwalk yacht is a 384-foot vessel with two helipads, swimming pools, a spa, and a gym; Fertitta declined interview requests about the tour and protests.

Coverage emphasizes the tension between ceremonial diplomacy and public criticism of wealth and U.S. influence in international affairs.

Analysts describe the voyage as a novel, privately funded diplomatic approach with mixed opinions on its impact on U.S.-Italy relations.

Fertitta has invited politicians, businesspeople, and military officials aboard during the tour, alongside the yacht’s luxury amenities.