 The deteriorating world political situation caused this to be cut short after visits to the Caribbean and South America, and the ships returned La Spezia in March 1939.At the Italian entry into the war, "d'Aosta" was part of the 2nd Cruiser Squadron and participated in the Battle of Punta Stilo between 6–10 July.In addition, she protected North Africa convoys, took part in a fleet sortie against British cruisers and bombarded Corfu on 18 December.