Crotone – A unique opportunity rewarded 52 students ofIIS Ciliberto Lucifero who, accompanied by teachers Carvelli, Paturzo, Scicchitano and Via, undertook a free cruise on the MSC Sinfonia ship thanks to the PCTO project. This extraordinary experience was intended for the most deserving students of the two institutes, offering them an educational and cultural adventure across the Eastern Mediterranean.
The boys’ enthusiasm was palpable from the first moment, ready to explore every corner, even the most hidden, of the wonderful cities that awaited them. The cruise left from the port of Brindisi, from which they set sail towards fascinating destinations. The first stop was Mykonos, famous for its white houses, beaches and windmills with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Here, the students learned about the beauty of simplicity with its narrow streets, white houses with blue balconies suspended over the sea and the red domes of the churches. Next, they explored Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. The next stop took them to Zaraa Croatian city rich in history and culture.
While sailing, life on board was equally exciting. The kids had fun among the various recreational activities offered on board, tasting foods of all nationalities and taking part in gallant evenings, in white or formal dresses. The cruise was not only a voyage of discovery, an opportunity to make new friends and strengthen bonds, but the pupils also had the opportunity and privilege (only granted to officers) to be involved in work activities. The guys from ITTL Ciliberto explored the engine room and the control bridge, the beating heart of the ship, examining the management and control tools, guided by the First Officer and were able to learn the technical and logistical functioning of the ship. The kids from the ITE Lucifero, however, took part in training meetings with competent on-board staff who instructed them on the economy of a ship, incoming and outgoing expenses, check-in and check-out, work at the reception and all the useful information to enrich their cultural background.
Special thanks go to the school director, Dr. Girolamo Arcuri, whose far-sighted vision made this unique experience possible, rewarding the most deserving children. Furthermore, a due recognition to Profs. Antonella Fossetto and Giovanni Spina, managers of the PCTO, who organized this extraordinary adventure with commitment and dedication. This cruise represented an unforgettable page in the book of these students’ lives, offering them not only knowledge and fun, but also awareness of the importance of travel and being together.
