ROME — Tilman Fertitta, the United States Ambassador to Italy and San Marino, has established his personal superyacht, Boardwalk, as a base for diplomatic operations. The arrangement includes residing aboard the vessel in Civitavecchia and commuting by helicopter to the embassy in Rome.
Built by Germany's Lürssen and delivered in early 2026, the Boardwalk is a 384-foot vessel that displaces approximately 5,350 tons and is valued at around $450 million. The superyacht features two pools, two helicopter pads, a wine cellar, a garage for smaller yachts, a cinema and a putting green. It accommodates 14 guests and a crew of 48.
Fertitta, a Texas-based businessman, built his wealth through Landry's Inc. a hospitality conglomerate that includes restaurants, hotels and casinos. He also owns the Houston Rockets NBA team.
The Senate confirmed Fertitta's appointment as ambassador in April 2025, with 14 senators voting against his nomination. His background is primarily in leisure, entertainment and gaming—experience that differs significantly from the diplomatic and foreign policy credentials typically expected of an ambassador to a G7 nation.
Fertitta donated $1 million to President Donald Trump's 2024 campaign through various entities, receiving the ambassadorship as the administration took shape. His appointment reflects a long-running Washington tradition of awarding prestigious diplomatic posts to wealthy political donors, a practice that often draws criticism when posts in desirable countries go to donors instead of career diplomats.
Since taking the post, Fertitta has deemed the ambassador's historic Roman residence, Villa Taverna, uninhabitable and opted instead to reside on the Boardwalk in Civitavecchia, a port city northwest of Rome. His daily commute to the embassy involves a helicopter flight from the yacht.
Fertitta has also branded a tour of Italy as "Coastal Diplomacy," embarking from Civitavecchia on a 13-region journey aboard his superyacht. The vessel has hosted various high-profile events, becoming a prominent venue for American diplomatic activities in Italy.
