Tilman Fertitta arrives in Venice aboard a luxury superyacht to a demonstration by hundreds of protesters.
Tilman Fertitta, the billionaire U.S. ambassador to Italy, arrived in Venice on Friday aboard his 384-foot luxury yacht, Boardwalk, as part of a coastal diplomacy tour celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. The arrival drew a crowd of several hundred protesters who marched to the vessel, briefly clashing with riot police. Activists described the yacht as an unwelcome display of American wealth and influence, particularly as the administration has worked to navigate a cooling relationship between Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and President Trump. Protesters carried signs and inflatable toys, with some criticizing the "arrogance" of the yacht's size in the historic city. Organizer Stella Morion noted that the demonstration also reflected public frustration with the international politics of the administration, specifically citing how U.S. strikes on Iran have increased energy prices. While Fertitta declined a personal interview, he issued a statement supporting the right to peaceful protest. The ambassador, who built his fortune in the hospitality industry, is expected to attend the Redentore festival in Venice on Saturday.