The historic Da Vinci Ferry has been relaunched on the Adda River, linking the Lecco and Bergamo provices and giving locals a five‑minute break from road congestion. Operated by volunteers from Imbersago, the service runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. with a noon break, charging €1 .50 for pedestrians and €3.50 for cars.

Bridge Closure Triggers Surge in Ferry Use

When a nearby bridge was shut for repairs, commuters suddenly needed an alternative crossing. According to the town’s volunteer ferryman Massimo Zoia, the ferry’s reaction‑based propulsion—where the river’s current pushes the boat laterally—proved a quick fix. residents like Gianpaolo Graffagnino now bike to work, using the ferry as a shortcut, while Mauro Carnati even drives his Maserati onto the deck to avoid a long detour.

Leonardo da Vinci’s 1513 Sketch Powers Modern Service

The vessel follows the reaction‑ferry principle that Leonardo sketched in 1513, though historians still debate whether he actually designed the craft. The design relies on the river’s flow to move the ferry sideways without engines, making it environmentally friendly and romantically historic. As the report notes, the Da Vinci Ferry is the last of its kind still operating on the Adda.

Mayor Fabio Vergani Secures Ferryman’s License and Volunteers

Imbersago’s mayor, Fabio Vergani, obtained a speecial ferryman’s license and organized a team of volunteers to keep the service alive. This civic effort has turned the ferry into a community symbol, reminding locals of the town’s heritage and the ingenuity of Renaissance engineering.

Unclear Provenance: Did Leonardo Really Design It?

While the ferry bears Leonardo’s name, the source admits it is uncertain whether he engineered the craft itself; his sketch merely explored waterway mechanics. This ambiguity adds a layer of myth to the service, attracting tourists who are drawn to the blend of history and practicality.

What Remains Unverified About the Revival?

Key questions linger: How sustainable is the volunteer model during peak traffic seasons, and will the ferry’s fee structure cover maintenance costs long‑term? Additionally, the exact timeline for the bridge’s reopening remains vague, leaving commuters dependent on the ferry for an uncertain period.