From May 9 to 11, 2025, the second international SIESsail meeting took place in Lido di Ostia, on the Tyrrhenian coast near Rome. The event was hosted by Lega Navale Italiana (LNI), one of the oldest and most important nautical organizations in Europe, which welcomed participants at its prestigious national base. Participants were greeted by the president of the Lido di Ostia section, Carola De Fazio, and LNI’s national president, Admiral Donato Marzano.
Knowledge exchange with top coaches
In the opening session, the hosts presented the work of Lega Navale Italiana, which has been promoting maritime culture, education, and sport since 1897. Today, the organization has more than 56,000 members, operates through over 250 sections, and manages numerous nautical bases across Italy. Special attention was given to the Lido di Ostia section, an important sports and community hub. With a wide range of sailing disciplines, partnerships with educational and social organizations, and the involvement of thousands of children each year, the section plays a key role in making sailing accessible to all. The program also included sessions with experienced coaches from various sailing classes – Optimist, ILCA, 420, and windsurfing. Participants learned about their training methods, coaching approaches, and international competition experience. A particularly inspiring part was the presentation of sailing for people with disabilities. The Hansa 303 boat, specially designed for inclusive sailing, was introduced as a way to open the sport to those who might otherwise not have access. The program, run in collaboration with several LNI sections, is a great example of best practice in inclusion.
Sailing with a social impact
The highlight of the meeting took place in the port of Ostia, where participants saw the sailboats Eros and Spyros, known as the “Boats of Legality.” Once used for illegal activities, these vessels are now dedicated entirely to social and inclusive programs. In cooperation with an association of patients with chronic fibromyalgia, sailing activities were organized, demonstrating how the sea and sailing can create a space for equality, connection, and even therapeutic experiences. Captain Tullio Picciolini also presented the catamaran Spirito di Stella, specially designed for people with limited mobility, which has sailed around the world as a symbol of inclusion and accessibility.
The meeting in Italy further strengthened collaboration among SIESsail partners. Over three intensive days, participants expanded their knowledge, exchanged best practices, and reinforced their shared commitment to developing sailing as an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable sport.
SIESsail continues, next stop is Tallinn, Estonia.
