he years between the two world wars witnessed the rapid rise of Italian shipyards and shipping companies. Several records established Italian shipbuilders among the best in the world. In 1927, the Augustus of Navigazione Generale Italiana set the record as the largest diesel-powered ship ever built, while in 1931, the Victoria of Lloyd Triestino became the fastest motor ship in the world.
The following year, two of the largest, fastest, and most luxurious ocean liners of the interwar period entered service: the Rex and the Conte di Savoia. The Rex introduced several innovations for first-class passengers, including air conditioning, a spa, and the first sound cinema at sea. The Conte di Savoia, on the other hand, was the first ship equipped with a stabilisation system to prevent seasickness, even in rough weather.
Victoria and Conte di Savoia, designed by Nicolò Costanzi and Gustavo Pulitzer Finali and built in Trieste, also represented an aesthetic renewal, both in their exterior lines and in their interiors, presenting the "fashionable ship" in the 20th-century style.
In August 1933, the Rex won the Blue Riband, the world speed record for the Atlantic crossing between Europe and the United States, completing the journey in just over four and a half days at an extraordinary average speed of 29 knots. The great flagship became legendary, symbolising the industrial resurgence of the nation whose flag it proudly flew.
Even Federico Fellini chose the Rex for the central scene of his cinematic masterpiece "Amarcord." The colossal ship, dazzling with lights, glides through the night like a marvellous dream.