Tilman Fertitta, the billionaire businessman, owner of the Houston Rockets, and U.S.ambassador to Italy appointed by President Donald Trump, has drawn criticism from residents and activists in Venice over plans to bring his 380-foot superyacht, Boardwalk, to the city as part of an America 250 commemorative tour celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States.The tour, which began on June 13, includes stops in several Italian coastal cities such as Naples, Genoa, Palermo, and Cefalù.

According to reports, Fertitta also intends to attend the Festa del Redentore, one of Venice's oldest and most significant annual festivals, held on July 18 and 19.

Critics argue that the arrival of such a lavish yacht during the celebration symbolizes excessive wealth and reinforces concerns about the commercialization and exploitation of Venice, a city already struggling with overtourism, rising housing costs, and the displacement of local residents.

Activist Federica Toninello, a member of Laboratorio Occupato Morion, described the display of luxury as insensitive to the economic challenges faced by many Venetians.She said local groups are organizing demonstrations that may include marches, banners, and canal blockades to protest the visit.The controversy has drawn comparisons to demonstrations surrounding Jeff Bezos's high-profile wedding celebration in Venice the previous year.

The planned visit also comes at a time of reported diplomatic tensions between President Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, adding a political dimension to what has become a broader debate over tourism, wealth, and the preservation of Venice's cultural identity.