sailing yacht a venice

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Sailing into Venice: how the city of love won my heart

• August 30, 2023

Phil and Roxy Johnson enjoy a memorable cruise to Venice, exploring the ‘city of love’ by boat

I’ll be the first to admit that I wanted to ‘skip’ Venice. In the myriad of Mediterranean sailing destinations I discussed with my wife and co-captain, Roxy, I thought we shouldn’t take time away from the endlessly beautiful archipelago of Croatia to sail to the northernmost end of the Adriatic to visit Venice. Why would we? Just to end up getting our keel stuck in a Venetian lagoon mudflat, or push through mobs of tourists all trying to snap the same picture of a gondolier under the Rialto bridge? But after searching in vain for a reasonably priced marina near a major international airport so we could leave our boat to attend a summer wedding back in the US, our plans coalesced around sailing to Venice… and I’m so glad it did.

Since late 2018, Roxy and I have been working remotely while living aboard our 47ft monohull yacht, Sonder . She’s taken us from the Caribbean to the USA, across the North Atlantic, and throughout the Mediterranean visiting a succession of once-in-a-lifetime destinations, though possibly none quite as unique as Venice.

Lying at the northern tip of the Adriatic, Venice can be reached via a long daysail from the Istrian coast of Croatia or, as we did, an overnight passage from further south along the Dalmatian coast. As of January, Croatia is now part of the same Schengen EU immigration zone, so departing sailors no longer need to stamp out when sailing to Italy. However, last summer that was not the case, so our passage began with an abnormally lengthy two-hour Croatian exit formality at a concrete quayside in Marina Kremik before motoring out into a becalmed slate-blue Adriatic.

With a somewhat limp mainsail hoisted tight to catch the first hint of wind, we motored north-west to immediately exit Croatian waters (as per the Croatian law in 2022) before adjusting our course northerly towards the vast Venetian Lagoon. It was now past 2100hrs and the daytime humidity had given way to a light evening fog which diffused the lights of hundreds of nearby squid fishing boats. To starboard, the Bora wind-scoured mountains of Croatia’s coastline created a wall of darkness, juxtaposed on the opposite side by the light pollution of the lower lying mainland of Italy.

A gentle evening south-easterly breeze finally set in and, with Roxy on the jib sheet, we unfurled our big 130% genoa, killed the engine, and trimmed our mainsail for a broad reach. Sonder glided along at a quiet, respectable 5 knots. At around 0300, I was on watch as we passed a distant oil drilling platform. Their hulks of machinery and lights looked like a floating city all of its own. My thoughts began to drift towards our destination.

Sonder is a solidly-built 1986 Pedrick Cheoy Lee. Photo: Phil Johnson

Built for mariners

We’d both visited Venice as tourists in the past, and while I remember being impressed by the many historic sites around the city, I don’t recall anything very special about the arrival by train. In fact, if you fly to Venice or come via the causeway by car, bus, or train (as most do) you’re actually entering the city through the back door. Venice was built by merchant mariners as a maritime city to face the sea – everything from the layout of the canal-streets, to the defences and facades of the buildings all orient toward the water. So, as we gradually sailed closer through the dark night, I realised that we’d be entering the city the same way sailors have for over a millennium.

Overnight the south-easterly continued to build until we had a steady 18 knots on our starboard aft-quarter which pushed the shallow green waters of the northern Adriatic into messy piles of wave chop. As dawn began to break, the lagoon’s wooded barrier island of Lido lay ahead, shielding any view of Venice and its lagoon from the sea. Were it not for the red and green channel markers that stand on weathered wooden pylons driven into the muddy bottom, it would be very difficult to actually sight this natural entrance into the lagoon.

Sonder facing the Piazetta San Marco and the Doge’s Palace. Photo: Phil Johnson

To control increasingly severe flooding, Venice has been building a rising storm gate system, aptly named Moses, that effectively closes off all entrances of the lagoon to the Adriatic Sea. Cruising friends of ours told us of arriving on a flood tide only to find the barrier had been raised, shutting the city off from the Mediterranean entirely. They tacked back and forth across the channel – on a lee shore – for hours waiting for the tide to fall before the gate finally was opened. This time, we were lucky to find the gates fully open. After dropping our sails – as sailing through the channel is not permitted – we motored past the concrete gate control tower and into the shelter of the Venice lagoon.

Almost immediately, we felt transported to another world. Dense stands of laurel trees stood dotted with nesting white egrets among ruins of overgrown brick naval fortifications. Grey herons fished among tidal grasses lining the shallow edge of channel banks. The air was thick and heavy with the humidity you’d expect from southern Europe’s largest wetland, and already warming in the dawn light. We rounded a bend in the channel and there, rising out of the milky teal lagoon, its outline fluttering slightly through the heat, was Venice in all its indisputable glory.

At this early hour there were very few other boats out on the water, or the accompanying boat wake which famously erodes the foundations of the city with incessant lapping. The waters of the lagoon were uncharacteristically still and calm, showing off reflections of the impressive Venetian campaniles towering above. With our jaws still on the floor of the cockpit, we missed the turn towards our marina entirely. Instead, we slowly kept motoring Sonder further in, towards the main thoroughfare – the junction at the heart of Venice where the grand canal, San Marco square, and the Doge’s Palace meet. All the while pinching ourselves at the uniquness of the moment: did we really just sail our floating home from America onto the doorstep of one of Europe’s most historic cities?

A life afloat

Visiting cruisers don’t need to stay in a marina when sailing to Venice. There are some shallow water anchorages outside of the main navigation channels, as well as further east in the lagoon near the island of Burano. But considering Sonder ’s draught of over 6ft and the fact we needed to leave her for our flight back to the US, we chose to tie up at the well appointed, and quite reasonably priced Marina Certosa, located on an island by the same name, immediately adjacent to Venice.

Isola Certosa is the site of a former military barracks, now in ruins and returned to wooded forest land, that has been turned into a multi-use space with a marina, restaurant, park, lodging, and art gallery. The marina makes use of the old fortified canals that now house modern finger docks serviced with manicured paths lined with oleander trees. If your vessel is blessed with an air-conditioning unit as Sonder is, then it’s a comfortable and calm escape from the noisy hive of Venice. Walks through the woods surrounding the marina will treat you to the sight of flamingos in the lagoon, and the sounds of millions of summer cicadas.

While we may have air-con, we don’t have a washing machine, so one of our first missions ashore was to find a place to do our laundry. An exciting first day in the romantic city of Venice! The marina’s facilities were still being developed so we set off on the vaporetto (Venice’s canal public transit system). Several stops later we alighted in San Marco square where we spent the next hour threading our way through hordes of tour groups while lugging bags of dirty washing in the hot midday sun. The hilarity of our circumstances was not lost on us!

It’s fun to navigate Venice’s labyrinthine canal system by dinghy. Photo: Phil Johnson

Eventually, we found the small, Venetian-owned ‘lavanderia’ we were searching for in a narrow back alley. On leaving we suddenly noticed how convenient the access to this back alley was – if coming by canal. Baulking at the thought of fighting the crowds again the following day, we cheekily decided then and there that we’d return with our own dinghy to pick up our laundry, via the canal system. How hard could it be?

Knowing the Venetian rules of the ‘road’ is essential for navigating the canals. While Venice has banned recreational boats from the Grand Canal, you can take your dinghy in the smaller canals. A no-wake speed limit of 5km/h is in place for the smaller canals in order to protect the city’s eroding foundations. Many canals are labelled for one-way traffic only (though the gondoliers seem to freely ignore this rule). The fact that many canals can dead end, or empty into the forbidden Grand Canal, makes navigation through Venice a bit complicated and nerve-racking at first. We spent time strategizing our route each time before setting off. Additionally you must take care to pass oncoming boats port-to-port, unless it’s a gondolier, in which case you pass on their starboard oar side – or risk being shouted at.

Sonder motors in to Venice, the St Mark’s Square campanile prominent in the background. Photo: Phil Johnson

So early the following morning, we left Marina Certosa in our Highfield RIB tender, crossing the open lagoon, which was already roiling with speeding water taxis and rumbling vaporettos. We retraced the same route towards San Marco square that we’d taken at dawn in glorious calm conditions with Sonder . This time, however, the water was rough with confused wake sloshing about from the constant water traffic. Roxy was getting soaked on the bow hanging on for dear life while navigating, as I tried to keep control and dodge the vaporettos. Eventually we arrived at our planned entrance into the canal system that would lead us to the lavanderia. We motored forwards, eager to escape the wake, but nervous about what seemed like it should be a forbidden activity… could we really just drive our own dinghy into the Venice canals?

Standing on the marble footbridge overhead were dozens of tourists eagerly taking photos in our general direction. It was hard to tell whether they were capturing the iconic scene of a dozen black, lacquered gondolas or the single out-of-place rubber dinghy entering the labyrinthine inner-city canal system.

Local perspective

After a few grazes against the canal wall, we quickly started to get the hang of it. While I waited canal-side for Roxy to grab our laundry, I talked with a Venetian teenager who brought his barge alongside to deliver baked goods through the back door of an adjacent hotel. This common Venetian barge boat is called a mototopo (literally translates to motorised mouse). With similar proportions to a short English narrowboat, they require skilful helming to get around the right-angled corners of the canals. Throughout Venice, everything in the city gets picked up and delivered by these boats: from garbage to scaffolding to loaves of bread.

Feeling emboldened by the experience, we began using our dinghy for every errand into Venice – memorable grocery runs, visits to a coffee shop, even a nice dinner out. One evening we hopped in the dinghy and zipped all the way to the north end of Venice in the quiet, residential neighbourhood of Cannaregio. There, we tied our dinghy up alongside the stone canal wall where dozens of young Venetians sat perched after spilling out of a small wine bar next door. Soon we had two glasses of Italian white bio-wine and a board of local cichetti (Venetian tapas) as we sat canal-side by our dinghy with the locals. In that moment, we wondered how we could ever experience Venice in any other way again. We soaked it all up, melding into the lively tableau around us while the setting sun cast coral hues off the tiled roofs.

Away from the obligatory tourist sights and photo ops, this city bustles with an authenticity we knew nothing about. It’s a city uniquely shaped by life on and in the water. Once you’ve witnessed Venice as you approach from the Adriatic, puzzled your way out of dead-end canals in your own boat, drunk wine and chatted with the locals at the water’s edge, and drifted among the layered ruins of the world’s most powerful maritime empire, you can never quite see it the same way again. It has become one of the greatest destinations we have ever sailed to.

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Venice Is a City Built on Sailing, and This Club Can Show You the Ropes

A group of idealistic young sailors is preserving Venice's bygone maritime traditions, and you can learn to sail alongside them.

JUST TRYING TO find the office of the sailing and rowing club Venice On Board involves taking a deep dive into the maritime past of Italy’s most ravishing city. The club sits in the ancient boatbuilding district of Cannaregio, where the intricate maze of alleys and canals confounds even Google Maps. I discovered this one morning last spring, when I wound my way there from the Piazza San Marco, became lost, and had to retrace my steps several times before finally finding the Rio della Sensa, a dreamily quiet side canal near Venice’s last working shipyard. At 9 a.m., the only person in sight was a bearded young craftsman who was planing the hull of a traditional wooden sailing boat. Behind him, a heavy wooden door guarded by a sleeping brown dog stood open, leading me to deduce, Sherlock Holmes–style, that I had arrived at Venice On Board’s HQ.

The retro nautical ambience became even more potent when I peered inside to find what might have been a backstage prop room for a production of  The Pirates of Penzance . Every inch of the floor was covered with coiled rope, canvas, obscure metal tools, and handmade models of antique Venetian sailing craft. Rows of oars were balanced in the ceiling rafters, and an entire wall was covered by wooden oarlocks called fórcole, which hung in racks like abstract sculptures; their designs have been honed over centuries to allow for a variety of rowing angles.

Camilla Glorioso

I had come here to take crash courses in two related arts: voga alla veneta, or Venetian-style rowing, and vela al terzo, sailing on Venice’s uniquely designed topi, small wooden boats that have been in use since the Middle Ages. Reclining behind a huge desk covered in marine charts was Emiliano Simon, a sun-bronzed, thirtysomething Venetian who was one of the club’s three original founders.

He explained that our morning lesson would focus on rowing, since no sailor in Venice can survive without it. “You need to know how to row in case the wind drops or you are becalmed in the lee of an island. You need to be confident you can get home!”

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A few minutes later, we were climbing onto the yellow-and-red-painted deck of an 18-foot topa. “I will teach you the first lesson to rowing in real Venetian style,” Simon deadpanned after he had dipped his oar and glided us to a gentle halt 100 yards away, below a café. “That is, we have an espresso! It’s very early.”

Sailing and rowing remained key parts of the waterlogged city’s daily life until the 1950s, when motorized boats began to replace them. The old nautical culture has all but vanished since.

WHILE WE CAFFEINATED, Simon explained why he had founded Venice On Board with his friends Nicola Ebner and Damiano Tonolotto in 2014. Although the trio hadn’t been raised in the city’s cultlike gondolier or fishing clans, they shared a passion for the water. They dreamed of restoring Venice’s seafaring heritage, which reached its apogee in the Renaissance, when the opulent Venetian Republic, or La Serenissima (“the most serene”), ruled a maritime empire that sprawled across the eastern Mediterranean.

Sailing and rowing remained key parts of the waterlogged city’s daily life until the 1950s, Simon went on, when motorized boats began to replace them. The old nautical culture has all but vanished since, he lamented: “There used to be more than sixty different styles of traditional rowing and sailing boats in Venice, and now there are fewer than fifteen. Most are just used for competitions these days. But they were once the only method of transportation in the city.” The creation of Venice On Board stemmed from more than simple nostalgia, he added. Motorboats offend many Venetians’ aesthetic sense: they create noise, and they churn up the mud at the bottom of canals, giving them their murky brown color. Rowers and sailors are more in touch with the environment. “It’s a different rhythm of life,” he said. “It’s a much more human pace.”

The club’s primary goal has always been to reteach Venetian residents how to use traditional vessels. But in the past couple of years, Venice On Board has begun passing its skills on to curious visitors. This is a boon for independent travelers like me, providing a singular opportunity to explore the city—particularly the lagoon, the 212-square-mile enclosed bay that surrounds the urban core of Venice.

Separated from the Adriatic by thin barrier islands and spits of land, it’s the largest wetland in the Mediterranean—shallow, marshy, and challenging for outsiders to navigate alone. Of the lagoon’s 62 outer islands, only 14 can be reached by vaporetto, or water bus—and of those, only a few receive regular visitors, such as the beach-lined Lido and Murano, famous for its glassblowing workshops. That leaves dozens of islands that can only be reached by private boat, plus swaths of eerily beautiful coastal marshes fringed by pale purple wisteria and populated by colonies of silver herons and pink flamingos.

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Accompanying me on this adventure was my girlfriend, Anna, who is Venetian and can trace her lineage back to one of the 16th-century doges who ruled the maritime republic and were wont to sail the lagoon in a gilded ceremonial barge. She offered to take me to the hidden bàcari, or bars, which she frequented as a philosophy student. In return, I shouldered the challenge of taking her to locales in her home city that she had never seen.

Many of the side canals have no footpaths and can only be explored by boat, so this was a rare chance to admire rusted gates that hid secret overgrown gardens, exquisite statues of boars’ heads lined up in rows, and ornately carved doorframes with stone steps descending to the water.

My first success was having found the ultimate aquatic base for us, the San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice, located on a tiny private island in a former monastery with its own fresco-filled 12th-century church. Stepping onto its dreamy dock, only eight minutes by launch from tourist-filled Piazza San Marco, we already felt like we were entering an alternate dimension of calm and peace. The monks had excellent taste in real estate, we noticed. Every corner of the Kempinski’s centuries-old garden offers lavish water views, today enhanced by abstract artworks; within the church, marble cherubs danced above modern blown-glass sculptures by Venetian artist Lino Tagliapietra. And as we sat at an outdoor table to enjoy the sunset with an Aperol Spritz, the only sounds were the lapping of waves and cawing of seabirds. “Which sphere of Heaven is this?” Anna mused, referring to Dante’s Paradiso.

THE NEXT MORNING, while Anna visited the Venice Biennale—the international art fair the city hosts every other year from late spring to November—I sallied forth for my first lesson at Venice On Board. Our espressos happily consumed, Simon explained the art of rowing, which I broke into four movements that I repeated over and again to myself, like dance steps. Standing mid-deck with the oar’s ridged (“diamond”) side upward, I recited: “gira” (rotate the oar backward, “like revving a motorbike”); “spingi” (“dip” the oar); “taglia l’acqua” (“cut” the water with a smooth stroke); and “torna” (rotate the oar back to its original position as it exits the water). Meanwhile, Simon rowed and steered from the stern. (Traditional boats are powered by two or more oarspeople, as were gondolas until the late 19th century, when a new hull design allowed a single gondolier to both power and steer.) “You can get amazing results from a minimum of effort,” Simon said as I went through the four movements. “Remember, Venetians used to do this all day!”

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Resisting the urge to break into a rendition of “O Sole Mio,” I rowed down the Rio della Misericórdia while Simon guided us through a swarm of speeding water taxis and lumbering cargo barges. “It’s not like English rowing, in flat, calm lakes and empty rivers,” he noted. “In Venice you have tight turns and traffic jams.” The leisurely pace makes the activity a social event, I learned. As we passed under a bridge, Simon yelled out: “Nono!” Grandpa! He then paused to chat with his relative, a dapper silver-haired gent, about the menu for Sunday’s family lunch. “I was born and raised in Cannaregio,” Simon said.

But the hubbub subsided as we turned down a narrow side canal. In the silence, I was able to fully get into a rhythm. “It’s very meditative,” Simon said as we glided onward. I learned to yell out an “Oe!” at blind corners to alert other craft of our approach, followed by either premando (on the left, in Venetian dialect) or stagando (on the right). I also learned to look squarely ahead, instead of glancing at my oar as it dipped in and out, to better keep my balance. This allowed me to take in the marvelous architectural details of Venice’s palazzos at water level. Many of the side canals have no footpaths and can only be explored by boat, so this was a rare chance to admire rusted gates that hid secret overgrown gardens, exquisite statues of boars’ heads lined up in rows, and ornately carved doorframes with stone steps descending to the water. “These used to be the main entrances of the palazzos, since aristocrats would arrive by gondola. Now we use the servants’ entrance in the alley. Even Venetian people forget.”

The relaxing old-world ambience suddenly vanished when we entered the Grand Canal, where the water was churning like a washing machine from all the motorboats. At one point, an ambulance vessel roared past, its siren blazing, sending enormous waves crashing over our bow and threatening to toss me over the side. “You are getting the full Venetian water experience today,” Simon said with a laugh.

“Congratulations!” he roared as we made it through the obstacle course. “You’ve crossed the Grand Canal for the first time!” It would be the first of many such journeys, he predicted.

FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS, I practiced my Italian nautical phrases with Anna in our island monastery and tracked down such evocative sites as Arzanà, a private collection of maritime artifacts housed in a boatyard that operated from the Renaissance until 1920. It was crammed like an attic with wonderful memorabilia, including a rare gondoletta, or little gondola, made for two passengers.

By now, I was hooked on the water and itching to try my hand at sailing. Anna was keen to join me, and offered to translate the arcane nautical terms in Venetian dialect, which is almost as different to the official Italian I’d studied in college as French is to Spanish.

This time, the instructor would be another of the club’s founders, Nicola Ebner—a statuesque character who had worked as a glassblower on Murano before giving up his day job for life under sail. When we arrived at 9 a.m., Ebner was already loading up the topa with a mast and canvas. Our destination would be the abandoned island of Sant’Andrea, he declared, which was crowned by a ruined 16th-century military fortress and could only be visited by private boat.

The relaxing old-world ambience suddenly vanished when we entered the Grand Canal, where the water was churning like a washing machine from all the motorboats. At one point, an ambulance vessel roared past, its siren blazing, sending enormous waves crashing over our bow and threatening to toss me over the side.

We started rowing through the Cannaregio canals. Near the home of the 16th-century painter Tintoretto, we passed one of Ebner’s friends working on a broken outboard motor. “If you go rowing, the engine never breaks!” Ebner said, laughing, when the man yelled out for advice on how to fix it. (Ebner slowed down to explain that the problem was a blocked tube, which could be cleaned with wire.)

Pausing in the last canal, Ebner showed me how to transform the topa from a rowboat to a full-fledged vela al terzo sailing vessel, erecting the wooden mast, fitting ropes, and raising the sail, or terzo, a unique design with four uneven sides that can catch every breath of wind. The craftsmanship was superb: the handmade pieces fit together perfectly, like in a model aircraft kit. And then the canvas filled, the mast gave a creak, and we were gliding into the open waters of the lagoon.

It was an exhilarating moment. After the labyrinth of urban waterways, the sky of the lagoon seemed as vast as Texas. Luxuriating in space and sunshine, Anna sang an old Venetian folk song between two courting lovers: “Marieta, jump in the gondola. I’ll take you to the Lido!” says the young man, to which the object of his affections teasingly replies, “I don’t trust you! You are too much of a scoundrel.”

Ebner quickly taught us the basics of how to angle the canvas and rudder to regulate speed and direction. Unlike on modern yachts, he explained, tightening the sail brought the prow into the wind, while letting it out brought the wind behind and increased our velocity. He directed me to hold the tiller and sailing rope in the same hand, adjusting both to ease us across the mirror-flat, silver-blue waters. “Look, we are going beyond the briccole,” Ebner noted with satisfaction as we sailed past the wooden poles lashed together that mark the “lanes” dredged for motorized boats.

About 90 percent of the lagoon is less than six feet deep—some parts are barely two feet—which is why Venetian sailboats were designed with flat-bottomed hulls and removable rudders, so they could range freely. But sailing vela al terzo is also possible in the wild waves of the Adriatic and beyond, Ebner explained; in fact, the founders sail a topo (a larger version of a topa) to Croatia every summer, a weeklong journey where they all sleep on deck.

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As we relaxed into the trip, enveloped in silence, Anna helped me hone my vocabulary—learning about la popa, the stern, and la prua, the prow, and sailing sottovento (below the wind) versus sopravento (above it). She recalled an old Venetian expression used by her mother: “Sottovento via!”—loosely, “get under the wind and go,” moving quietly so nobody notices.

An hour later, we approached our goal, Sant’Andrea. There were no docks or even ladders, so we tied up beneath a stone balustrade and scrambled up to dry land. The fortress has been disused for a century and the island is now as wild as a national park. It felt haunted: Ebner led us along an overgrown path bristling with thorny bushes, under crumbling arches and up a worn stone stairwell, an ascent without guardrails that was not for the vertiginous. We finally clambered onto a bastion that once gave the republic’s cannons a commanding range over the lagoon’s entrance. Carved into the wall was the Lion of Saint Mark, the symbol of Venice. Today, I had to admit, the bastion would be a marvelous spot for a bar.

As we skimmed across the waves of the lagoon in the warm spring sunshine, it was impossible not to dream.

Ebner’s face darkened. As it happens, the future of the island is under debate, and Venetian residents worry that access will soon be limited. Earlier, we had passed an island that was sold to a private owner and today operates as an exclusive yachting club. “We Venetians all used to go there as teenagers for picnics and parties,” he lamented. “It is still supposed to be open to the public, but the reality is that if you land there, they will chase you away and threaten to call the police.” Locals hope that Sant’Andrea will escape that fate and instead be turned into a park that all can enjoy, “with a bar here, sure, but a bar everyone can visit!” Ebner sighed: “I’m not optimistic.”

This melancholy note was forgotten the moment we were back under sail, once again becoming part of Venice’s colorful nautical society. Within minutes of casting off, an elderly character in hunter’s camouflage pulled alongside us in a motorized dinghy filled with fishing rods. “How much did that sail cost you?” he yelled out. When Ebner told him, the man revealed himself to be Giovanni Naccari, one of only two traditional sailmakers still working in Venice. Our sail had been made by his competitor, but Naccari took the news with good cheer. “It’s still a good-looking sail!” After complaining about his luck with the morning’s fishing (“It’s lunchtime but I didn’t catch a thing. In fact, I almost got a ticket from the water police for fishing in the wrong place!”), Naccari then declared that he wanted to sell Ebner a traditional boat that he no longer used. The pair exchanged numbers, and then Naccari sped off.

“This could be good news,” Ebner said. “It’s a good price.”

The meeting inspired him to muse about Venice’s future. “This city could be the world leader in environmental sustainability,” he enthused. “We could all just go around Venice by oar, two or three people in a traditional rowboat. It can be faster than a vaporetto, without creating pollution of any kind!” It’s a wildly utopian vision—a bit like the idea of closing Manhattan off to all but bicycle traffic—but as we skimmed across the waves of the lagoon in the warm spring sunshine, it was impossible not to dream.

The Floating City

Where to stay.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice: There’s no better way to experience the scale of the lagoon than with a stay at this luxe 196-room-and-suite resort on a private island. Guests can transfer to the Piazza San Marco via a fiveminute boat ride.

Arzanà: A private museum of boats and memorabilia related to Venice’s nautical history. By appointment only

Venice On Board : Individual lessons in Venetian style rowing and private and group classes in sailing vela al terzo are held throughout the year through this association dedicated to keeping the city’s maritime traditions alive.

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "A Sailing Song. "

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Blog Venice and Veneto Venice boats: Nine ways to ride a boat in Venice

Venice boats: Nine ways to ride a boat in Venice

When planning an Italy itinerary that includes Venice , there are three things I always recommend: spend some time getting good and lost; s ee Venice from above, and s ee Venice from the water.  Since Venice is built on 117 islands – connected by 400 bridges – there are lots of ways to see Venice from the water. Note: swimming is not one of them unless you go to one of the public beaches . Here are some great Venice boats:

The short, inexpensive  Traghetto

Photo by zenm via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

  Although the word traghetto means ferry everywhere else in Italy, in Venice, it’s a specific type of boat as pictured above that only goes back and forth and back and forth across the Grand Canal at seven designated points (here’s a  map of traghetto crossings ). Since the Grand Canal is not that wide, the ride takes only a few minutes. It’s inexpensive, and if you don’t want to spend the money on a gondola but want get your photo taken on a gondola-like boat, a traghetto is not a bad substitute. Or, if you want to cross the Canal and there isn’t a bridge, take a traghetto .

Public boat or vaporetto

“The Grand Canal at Dusk” by Marco licensed under (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Those big boats in the foreground that look like ferries are vaporetti .  They are Venice’s public transportation: you buy a ticket, you get on, there are different routes, designated stops, and you get off where you need to. Even though it’s touristy, I do recommend taking a boat down (or up) the entire length of the Grand Canal. You can even download a free audio tour . But, the vaporetti are crowded. They are full of people with luggage, confused tourists, excited tourists, and are usually packed to the gills. It’s not a quiet cruise where you can sit and enjoy the sights and listen to your audio tour. Luckily, however, There’s A Boat For That.

The Hop On Hop Off Boat, aka the Vaporetto dell’Arte (UPDATE: This boat, as of 2014, is not currently running. Service may resume but I don’t know when)

This boat is exclusively for tourists, but given that there are more than 60,000 visitors to Venice per day – more than the number of residents – Venice is not a place you need to worry about looking like a tourist. Everyone is a tourist, and for good reason: The city is fantastic and you should feel good about supporting it with your tourist dollars. So get on the tourist boat, relax in comfort, peace and quiet. Put on the headset, pick your language, and enjoy the tour on the Vaporetto Dell’Arte .

A Dinner Cruise

Why not kill three birds with one stone? See the sights of Venice, ride a boat, and eat dinner on the Galleon Dinner Cruise .  It’s a candlelit aristocratic Venetian feast that travels past the famous islands of Burano, Torcello, and Murano in addition to the main islands of Venice.  The only limitation? It’s just on Wednesdays.

Hotel, shmotel: do a boat and breakfast

Stay on the Boat and Breakfast Sarah Sun Island yacht, moored near Piazza San Marco in the heart of Venice. It has air conditioning / heat, includes breakfast, and even though it’s a fancy yacht, it’s in the budget accommodation category – at least for Venice.  Or, stay on a houseboat .

Paddle a Kayak through the canals

Explore the canals of Venice on your own power by paddling with Venice Kayak on a half-day, full day, multi-day, or evening tour. If you’ve been following the news on  the damage cruise ships are doing to Venice , you’ll love this no-motor alternative. And because you’re not on a boat with a motor, you’re not restricted the same way as other boats – in a kayak you can go practically anywhere you want, but not completely on your own: kayak rental comes with a guide.

Get to or from Venice on a historic Burchiello boat, instead of taking the train

Instead of arriving or departing Venice on the train, take a river cruise down the Brenta on a Burchiello . They’ve been modernized since the images above were done, and they’re comfortable boats. Take a full day to get from Venice to the gorgeous and underrated city of Padova , and you’ll learn a lot from the guide about the villas along this historical waterway, even stopping to visit some of the frescoed summer dwellings of Venetian aristocrats from 3 centuries ago.

A historic Topetta 

A topetta is a historic Venetian wooden boat, though these days it usually has a motor attached. It holds up to 6 people and is what the locals use to get around and to transport goods. If you’d like to book a private boat tour in Venice that is longer than a 40 minute gondola ride and more reasonably priced, you should  book a tour through the canals on a topetta .

And finally, the Gondola: some beyond the obvious tips

On my first trip to Venice, as a high school student, I had no money so I didn’t ride a gondola but I really wanted to; I thought it was a romantic must-do. Then later, when I was working in Italy as a tour guide (but still poor) and spent quite a bit of time in Venice, I turned up my nose at this only-for-tourists activity. A few years later, when I was living in Milan and had a decent salary as a corporate expat, I finally rode a gondola. And you know what? I really enjoyed it. Yes, it’s for tourists. But it’s a historical, romantic way to see the canals. It’s not at all beyond the obvious, but if it’s on your bucket list, go ahead and do it. You may have heard that gondola rates are fixed : you can not negotiate the cost, but make sure you get your full 40 minutes and know that the rates buy you the entire boat. It’s worth spending the extra money to go after 7 pm, when the rates go up but the light is nice and the water traffic has died down.

A lot of people don’t realize that gondola routes are not up to the gondolier:  you can decide where you want to go. I recommend having a look at these six great gondola routes . The website is in Italian but the six routes are highlighted on the map when you click the links on the left side of the screen. Decide which one you want to do, and find a gondolier at one end of the route. Tell the gondolier the itinerary you’d like him ( or her ) to follow and if they try to convince you the route needs to end where it begins, insist on your route. Be firm but polite, and if they aren’t flexible, go talk to another gondolier.

  Venice traghetto from foto silenziose ; Vaporetto from Raison Descartier .

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• Destinations
• The Mediterranean
• Venice & The Italian Adriatic

Yacht Charter Venice and the Italian Adriatic

Along the Adriatic Sea lies stunning towns, cities, and harbors to visit during a yacht rental to Venice and the Italian Adriatic. No better place exists to enjoy a luxury yacht charter than in a city on the water that offers ageless beauty and exquisite architecture.

Romance ensues as you cruise the canals of the historic city of Venice. Here, you will find cobblestone streets, gondolas, and boats — no roads for cars. The perfect place to get lost while wandering the canals, stopping at various cafes and window-shopping local boutiques.

Piazza St. Marco is home to the ever-incredible St. Mark’s Basilica, the ever-opulent Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Campanile, which is worth the climb for the stunning city views. Here, you will also find some of Italy’s most famous designers, such as Versace, Gucci, Fendi, and more, lining Calle Larga XXII Marzo.

After an afternoon of shopping, stop in Harry’s bar, the birthplace of the Bellini and Beef Carpaccio, for a true taste of The Floating City. Seafood is a staple in Venetian cuisine. Enjoy a meal at Osteria Boccadoro or one of the city’s oldest trattorias, Antiche Carampane, to get your traditional fare.

If you want to cruise down Venice’s legendary Grand Canal and experience a yacht rental in Venice and Eastern Italy, contact Northrop & Johnson. As a leading yacht charter brokerage, we have access to every luxury crewed yacht for charter in the Adriatic, including the world’s finest superyachts and mega yachts by acclaimed European shipyards. Contact our team today or browse our luxury yachts for charter.

Get in touch with a yacht broker in Venice

Northrop & Johnson is a leading international yacht brokerage with access to the best and most luxurious yachts for charter, including in East Italy. With offices in the heart of Monaco, just moments away from Port Hercule, our yacht charter brokers boast unparalleled Venice and Adriatic expertise and market intelligence. We take pride in listening to our client’s needs and crafting exceptional charter itineraries in and around Balearics. Rent a superyacht on the less crowded Italian Coast and enjoy the ultimate vacation on the water. Contact our yacht brokers in Monaco today if you want to charter a luxury yacht. We will be thrilled to assist you on your yachting journey.

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Charter Highlights Venice & The Italian Adriatic

• Take a romantic gondola tour along the meandering Floating City canals
• Marvel over the Gothic architecture adorning Doge's palace
• Spend an afternoon shopping on Calle Larga XXII Marzo
• Walk in the Guggenheim Museum, filled with acclaimed 20th-century European and American art, and the Palazzo Grassi, known for its superb contemporary art exhibitions
• Indulge in a Bellini in the world-famous Harry's Bar
• Visit the Cathedral of San Ciriaco in Ancona
• Sail in some of the best gulf in Italy, admiring stunning views
• Discover San Marco, one of the most famous hotspots in The Floating City

Best Yachts for Charter in Venice & The Italian Adriatic

Motor yachts for charter in venice & the italian adriatic, sailing yachts for charter in venice & the italian adriatic, yacht charter venice and adriatic guide: faqs, where in the mediterranean is venice & the eastern italy coast located.

Venice and the Italian East Coast are located in the northern part of the Mediterranean Sea. Specifically, The Floating City is situated in northeastern Italy, and the Adriatic Coast extends along the eastern side of the Italian Peninsula, facing the Adriatic Sea. Situated within the Venetian Lagoon near the northern Adriatic Sea, this amazing city is renowned for its unique setting on a group of 118 islands separated by canals and linked by bridges.

Why charter a yacht in Venice and the Italian Adriatic?

Chartering a yacht in Venice and the Adriatic off Italy’s eastern coast offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining the historic charm of The Floating City with the scenic beauty of the Adriatic coastline. Explore iconic cities, secluded isles, and cultural sites with the flexibility of a personalized itinerary. Enjoy gourmet dining onboard, water activities in clear Adriatic waters, and the exclusivity and privacy of a luxury yacht. Witness romantic sunsets, escape to lesser-known destinations, and embrace this region’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating choice for a memorable and tailored yachting experience.

What to do on a luxury yacht rental in Venice and the Italian Adriatic coast

The charter team at Northrop & Johnson will plan and customize your itinerary and activities based on your preferences to create a perfect blend of indulgence and discovery. Some highlights include:

• Explore Venice: Take a gondola ride through the iconic canals of The Floating City, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and wander through the charming streets of the historic city. This city is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history.
• Island Hopping: Visit the nearby islands, such as Murano, known for its glassmaking, and Burano, famous for its colorful houses and lace. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and local crafts on each island.
• Adriatic Coastal Towns: Explore charming coastal towns along the Italian East coast, such as Trieste, Ravenna, and Cesenatico. Discover historical sites and museums, and feast on delightful local cuisine at local eateries and acclaimed restaurants.
• Water Activities: Make the most of your yacht’s many water toys on the Adriatic’s azure blue waters, including jet skis, inflatables, snorkeling and diving equipment, Seabobs, and foils.
• Wine Tasting: Explore the rich wine culture of the East Italy. Visit local vineyards and wineries, or have a selection of regional wines curated for a private tasting on your yacht.
• Cultural Excursions: Take cultural excursions to historical sites, museums, and art galleries along the shoreline. Cities like Trieste and Ravenna have a wealth of cultural attractions to explore.
• Sunset Cruises: Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the Adriatic Sea. Many luxury yachts offer spacious decks and lounging areas, creating the perfect setting for a romantic sunset cruise.
• Relaxation and Spa: Unwind with spa treatments and relaxation sessions onboard your luxury yacht or at acclaimed spas ashore.

What's better, a motor or sailing yacht charter in Venice and the Italian Adriatic Coast

Motor yachts offer speed and stability, ideal for those who prioritize comfort, convenience, and a faster pace of travel. Sailing yachts provide a unique, eco-friendly, and serene sailing experience, appealing to those who appreciate the traditional charm, a quieter ambiance, and a more hands-on approach.

Are Venice and the Italian Adriatic yacht charters good for families?

A Venice and the Italian Adriatic yacht charter is an excellent choice for families, offering a unique and memorable vacation experience. The east coast, including The Floating City, offers diverse destinations with rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Families can explore historic cities, charming coastal towns, and idyllic isles, creating a well-rounded itinerary. The waters are generally calm, providing a comfortable and family-friendly sailing experience. This makes it suitable for families with children who may not be accustomed to rough seas. The Adriatic shoreline is dotted with picturesque islands, and a charter yacht allows families to explore multiple destinations without needing constant packing and unpacking.

When is the best time of year for yacht charters in Venice and the Adriatic, and what weather can I expect?

• Summer (June to August): This is the peak season, offering warm and sunny weather, ideal for swimming, water sports, and exploring coastal towns. However, it is also the busiest season, so popular destinations may be crowded. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) or higher, and humidity levels may rise.
• Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to October): Spring and fall offer milder temperatures but are generally pleasant, and these shoulder seasons avoid the peak crowds of high season. However, occasional rain showers are possible. Spring and fall are excellent for sightseeing, cultural exploration, and outdoor activities. The sea is still warm enough for water activities. Daytime highs range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

What is the water temperature in Venice and the Adriatic?

• Summer (June to August): the water temperatures can range from approximately 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). June brings warmer water temperatures, making it more suitable for swimming.
• Spring (March to May): In March, it may still be cool, with water temperatures averaging around 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F), but by May, water temperatures can reach around 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F).

How much in advance should I book a yacht charter in Venice and the Italian East?

Booking well in advance is advisable to secure the ideal yacht of your choice and get the best availability. We recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance for high-season vacations and 3 to 6 months for spring or fall vacations.

How much is a luxury yacht charter in Venice and the Italian Adriatic?

The cost of a yacht charter in Venice and the Italian east shoreline will depend on the size of the vessel, its onboard amenities, and the year of delivery, as well as your chosen itinerary, length of charter, and the time of year that you go. Expect a yacht charter in The Floating City and the Adriatic to start from US$50,000 per week, with the world’s finest superyacht charters costing upwards of 1 million plus. Northrop & Johnson boasts an exquisite fleet of  yachts for charter in the Mediterranean , including in Venice and the Adriatic.

What is the VAT for chartering a yacht in Venice and the Italian Adriatic?

All yacht charters in Venice and the Adriatic are subject to a VAT fee, with the VAT dependent on the length of the charter. Northrop & Johnson will advise on the total VAT cost and manage the payment for you.

What types of yachts can I charter in Venice and The Italian East Coast?

• Motor Yachts: These are popular for those who prefer speed and comfort. A motor yacht offers spacious interiors and modern amenities and can cover larger distances quickly.
• Sailing Yachts: They provide a more traditional and serene sailing experience. They are ideal for those who enjoy the thrill of the wind in their sails and a more relaxed pace.
• Catamarans: Catamarans are known for their stability and spaciousness. A catamaran is an excellent choice for families or groups of friends as it offers more living space both above and below deck. Northrop & Johnson can connect you with both sailing catamarans and motor catamarans.
• Motor Sailers: Combining the features of the engine and sailing yachts, this kind of sailer offers versatility. They can sail using the engine or the wind, providing a flexible and enjoyable experience.

What food can I expect on a Venice and the Italian Adriatic yacht charter?

On Northrop & Johnson luxury yacht charters, you get supreme culinary experiences tailored to your preferences and dietary requirements. Your chef will create an exquisitely delicious menu for you and include any specific requests or dietary restrictions you communicate to us in advance.

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Boats in Venice

Looking out on Grand Canal on any normal day, you see a variety of floating vessels. The boats in Venice are many, and Canal Grande is the main exhibition of all the different types you can find in the lagoon city. They are long, short, big, small, with a motor, or with single or double oars. The intense traffic would correspond to the Boulevard or central avenue of any other, dryer city.

The tourists ride the Vaporetto , they go by Taxi or by Gondola… But there is quite a lot of necessary service traffic too, mostly cargo boats. Then there are post boats, police boats, other law enforcement watercraft, ambulances, and the boats of the firefighters. And of course, there are a whole lot of private boats.  Venice is a well-functioning city and just like any other urban area, it needs transport of goods and people in every possible way.

Driving a boat on Grand Canal is reserved for Venice City residents. And only after 12 o’clock. To use a boat with a motor, you would need a license issued by the same city. The speed limit on Canal Grande is 8 km/h (4 knots) and on the smaller canals 5 km/h (2,5 knots). 

But this wasn’t meant to be a guide on how to drive a boat on the Grand Canal. What I wanted to do was just to explain the various types of vessels, you would see when looking down on the water from one of the bridges.

And as a list of the boats can be done in various ways, and as the most common way is to include all the traditional, historical boats of the lagoon… I will do it in a more contemporary, modern way. So, here’s a list and an explanation of the watercraft you are likely to see on a perfectly normal day in Venice. It is in no way complete, as many of the traditional boats have more or less disappeared from the lagoon. Some old vessels have evolved and now live on in modern versions.

All these boats are made of wood, if not described otherwise.

What are the boats in Venice called?

The Gondola is the most famous of them all, the symbol of Venice and the definite King of the Venetian waters. You see them all over with tourists eagerly inhaling the beauty of the city while the Gondoliere explains the sites in broken English. A few hundred years ago, they were even more frequent, as the Gondola in the past was in Venice what a horse-cart was in London… The normal way of transport within the city. At least for anyone with money. Here’s a complete Gondola guide.

The Sandolo is one of many very similar boats in the Lagoon… Boats of which a branch with the passing centuries developed into the Gondola. They were all small, narrow, and long. And propulsion was a single oar on the starboard side towards the stern of the boat. 

The name Sandolo obviously shares the same root as Sandal, the footwear. Sandalium , Latin for shoe, reflects the flat bottom of the boat. Like most vessels in the lagoon, one of the most important features was the capability to move when the water is low or very low… Thus the flat bottom.

It’s not always easy to distinguish what is a Sandolo and what is not. The boat type is so common, and with so many variations that distinguish it can be problematic. Especially when we look back on history. Almost all of the small boats are somewhat similar to the Sandolo.

The boat types that have survived until modern times are divided into subcategories, such as:

• Pupparino . 2 oarsmen. A very long (10m), narrow, and graceful Sandolo. Today they are used in regattas, as they are very fast.
• Sandolo s’ciopon . 1 oarsman with double oars. The samllest of the Sandolos. So light and flat that it can enter where other boats cannot. Used mainly for hunting in the marshlands. The name means burst as in rifle burst (Scoppio [skɔpiɔ] in Italian, S’ciopo [sʧɔpɔ in Venetian). 

• Sampierotto ,  Sandolo Buranello , and others are all fishing boats. 1-2 oarsmen They are simple but often a few centimeters wider and with a greater load capacity.
• Mascareta . 2 oarsmen. 6 to 8 meters in length and very light, low, and fast. Nowadays and almost exclusively used in Regattas.
• Sandolo da barcarole . 1 oarsman. This is the one you will likely first come across. It is used to scam tourists into thinking they’re going for a Gondola ride when actually they’re riding another boat. It might be equally pleasant, but it’s not a Gondola.
• … And many others .

Batela Buranela / Batela Coa de Gambero

The word, Batela, means just boat in Venetian. But the term comes with a baggage of history and tradition. The Batela is a wide wooden boat for transport and work. Normally rowed with two or four opposite oars. In the past, the Batela was the most commonly used of all the cargo boats in Venice. You could see them all over running back and forth with all kinds of merchandise. Now they are mostly substituted with motorized Topi. 

It is bigger than the Sandolo, up to 12 meters in length, with higher bords, but still kind of narrow and slender. It’s powered with manpower, so the resistance has to be small. Oars can’t do wide vessels.

Two versions exist, Batela coda di Gambero (Coa de Gambaro), and Batela Buranela (which obviously originates from Burano). The latter is wider and more of a transporter. Apart from that, the Batela coda di Gambero has a flat stern, while the Buranela has a pointed, elevated stern. This makes it easier to row but lowers the cargo capacity.

Rowvenice.org  uses the Batela coda di Gambero for their lessons in Voga Veneta.

Topo/Mototopo

When the modern Diesel engine entered Venetian everyday life, the Mototopo became the typical Venetian transport vessel. You see these motorized topos all over with the transporting company logo on the side. They bring food and beverages to the hotels and packages and other stuff to offices and private houses.

Topo means mouse, and before the mouse was equipped with an engine, they were equipped with other thrusters. The everpresent oars, but also sails. In the old days, the Topo was a versatile companion for transporting heavy goods out on the open lagoon and even out on the sea. The rounder boards with a less squared floor and the greater width for and aft made them much safer in open waters with stronger winds.

As with all the other boats, there are many variations, battello a pìsso, musséto, batèlo col fìlo. One recent development is the Topa (… as in a female mouse.). What happened was simply that they cut off the pointed stern and made it flat. In that way, you can put a small outboard engine there, and so it becomes a popular and simple transport vessel for private use.

All transporting of things with boats in Venice is regulated and controlled. You are actually not allowed to bring your own refrigerator home, the transporting consortium has the monopoly.

The modern Mototopos come in many forms and sizes, with a cabin or without. They can be as long as 14 meters, and as small as 6. They have a large beam and are incredibly stable. At the beginning of 1900, the heavy marine diesel came on board. That forced the already wide stern to become even wider, and the buoyance to increase further. The result was a vessel that is as stable as a lorry on dry land. That makes them very practical when it comes to loading and unloading directly on the Fondamenta.

Garbage boat

These are highly specialized ships, made in steel, or recently in fiberglass. Around 12 meters in length and with a net cargo capacity of 10 tonnes. The waste bins are picked up from the key with a crane mounted on the boat. If the vessel is equipped with a compactor, the waste is then compressed on board before it is transported to the recycling center.

The City of Venice has a total of 60 of them. Not all of them are in Venice. Many are in service around the other islands, Murano, Burano, Lido, etc. But they are quite common in Venice in the canals of medium size. All are colored in a light green hue, which makes them easily distinguishable.

Of the 60 vessels, 44 are powered by Stage V engines. Stage V is the latest stage of the European emission standards for Non-road engines. They are all from 2016 or later. Venice actually makes a great deal of effort to reduce the environmental impact of its service fleet. As another important step in that direction, two new electric/hybrid ships have been purchased and are now operational.

This is another traditional wooden boat nowadays used mainly for racing, especially in traditional rowing competitions, like  Vogalonga  and  Regata Storica. 

The name comes from the city of  Caorle  to the northeast of Venice, once an important and prosperous part of the Republic. The boat was once something of the standard fishing, and transport vessel in those parts, much like the Batela was in Venice. It could be well over 10 meters back then, but now they are smaller and less wide, to gain speed.

Because just like many other traditional Venetian boats, today they are used solely in regattas. In ancient times they were rowed with one or two oarsmen, but as it has become a race boat, nowadays it has 6 oars.

An interesting fact is that it is symmetric. The stern and the bow are identical, pointed, and bent upwards.

Barcheta a massoche

A bigger Gondola that can take up to 14 persons plus the two Gondoliers. It is made in the same manner as a normal Gondola, but it’s wider, more stable, and has a higher gross load capacity. It’s used for the Traghetto… The short ride from one side of Canal Grande to the other. 

The rowing technique is somewhat different, as you push on both sides. It is only the Gondolier at the stern that steers. The one at the bow is just pushing. Landing perfectly at the pier takes a little maneuvering back and forth, and that’s when both Gondoliers have to collaborate. Sometimes the collaboration can be audible.

Police / Ambulance

The  Ambulances and the Police-boats are the only Venice boats that are allowed to exceed the speed limits. When there’s an emergency they can reach incredible speeds leaving other boats behind, all trying to stay afloat in the wakes.

The top speed is up to 35 knots or 40 Miles/h.

The various Venice taxis come in wood, in wood/fiberglass, or fiberglass exclusively. The curious fact about the taxis is that, although they come from various shipyards, and there are both old boats and brand new ones, they are all exceptionally similar. The driver’s seat, behind which there’s the cabin. And at the back, there’s an open space for photo sessions and sunbathing. And the shape and size are almost identical. 

But it wasn’t always like that. The taxi era started in the late 1800s. At that time they could be different in shape and size. Then came the first motor taxis. They all had a petrol engine mounted in the bow. When petrol got too expensive, they started using diesel engines. These were so heavy that the boats couldn’t maintain the horizontal waterline with the engine in the bow. They had to be put in the stern.

But by doing so the taxis became stern heavy. And the disproportional weight distribution combined with the total mass of the engine, suddenly made the wakes dangerously large. And the whole controversy of the motor-driven boats in Venice that drained material from the delicate canal sides, and thus risked a complete collapse o the whole Venice foundation, started.

Nowadays that problem is not solved, but it is less evident. The taxis are wider with better buoyancy at the stern, and the engines weigh less. With added speed limits and regulated access to the canals, the high wake issues have disappeared from the newspaper’s front pages. Not everybody agrees with me on that one though…

The Vaporettos is the water buss, bringing people from east to west, from north to south. Made in metal with the typical entrance and exit midships (…If you could invent a system where people could enter and exit from different gates, but still with only one sailor handling the crowds, you would make a fortune.).They are mostly around 20 meters in length, but ACTV , the local public transport company, has many different kinds of Vaporettos.

The classical water bus, line 90, is the only one running the Canal Grande. Outside, circumnavigating the City, there are the smaller vessels, we call them Motoscafi… Which is just another name for a motorboat. Then there are bigger ones crossing the lagoon to Lido, Punta Sabbioni, and Burano.

And why are they called Vaporetto?

Vapore means steam, and although all Vaporettos are equipped with diesel engines, the name has remained from when they were all driven by steam. The very first line opened already in 1857 bringing people from Venice to Chioggia, and vice versa. And they continued to bring things and folks from here to there inside the city and towards the other islands as well as the mainland. The steam engines were weak in power but easy to maintain as the mechanics of the engine were quite simple and straightforward.

Not until after the second world war, the steam engines were finally sent to the scrapyard. And new modern diesel engines took over. The name remained though. Like so much in Venice, the people like to maintain the old names and traditions, even when they are outdated. That’s just the way we are.

The biggest of ACTV’s ships and the only car-carrier is the big Ferry from Venice to Lido di Venezia. There are a few different models. The biggest one takes 1250 passengers and 71 cars. It’s driven by two Caterpillar diesel engines each of 740 hp.

They depart from Tronchetto ( The first island on your right before you arrive at Piazzale Roma over the bridge from the mainland.), and they arrive at San Nicolò a kilometer to the northeast of the center at Lido.

The trip is very nice as it cruises along all of Canale della Giudecca. The shoreline of both Venice and Giudecca can be enjoyed from the sun deck. Take notice of the many extremely leaning belltowers while passing.

Sometimes you see a very small outboard motorboat with a teenager and his friend or girlfriend… Sometimes accompanied by the rhythmic bass drum of the latest song by the latest rockstar.

The boat has very low boards, and it’s narrow. That’s a Cofano. It’s a vessel for hunting and fishing in the shallow waters of the lagoon, as well as for fooling around in the canals, as teenagers do. It’s one of the most common of all the boats in Venice. 

It’s not something you would be able to see. Still, it was a sensational boat, full of the most precious materials, gold, jewels, and silk. It was the ceremonial boat that was used at the  wedding ceremony between the Republic and the sea , celebrated the day of the Ascension of Jesus. The last original boat was destroyed and stripped of its gold by the French after the  fall of the Republic  in 1797. A project to reconstruct her was started in 2004. Unfortunately, because of lacking funds, it’s put on ice.

The boats in Venice come in multiple various shapes, and forms, more or less traditional, as well as new and old boats that don’t have anything to do with the history of the lagoon. But Venice is and has always been a maritime hub. It has always attracted watercraft from near and far. 

And the craftsmanship of the Venetian boat builders was what made Venice, Venice. From the small boats, specialized to bring people and goods on the narrow canals, to the huge ships sailing out from the Arsenale to defend the Venetian trading routes.

In June, the  Venice Boat-Show  continues to demonstrate the importance of boat building in the lagoon city.

Classic Boats Venice

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CBV is the first and only classic  boat rental in Venice .

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Classic Boats Venice is pleased every day to offer delighted customers the chance to see Venice from the Venetian perspective: from its sea. As the premier  boat rental in Venice , our team provides guests all the tools they will need to have a perfect day out.

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A 129-YEAR-OLD BEAUTY

Originally used as an Admiral’s launch, this ship was built in England in 1894..    Up to 12          From 1894 HYBRID ENGINE Lady Betty

This beautiful motorboat was built in the early 1980s in Venice by Cantiere di Crea as a guest..    Up to 8          From 1980 Fata Buona

This beautiful Venetian motorboat, built in 1968 in Venice and designed and built by The Oscar Shipyard..    Up to 11          From 1968 La Trota

WOODEN FISHING TRAWLER

This beautiful all wooden fishing trawler, was built in 1978 in Bordeaux, France..    Up to 20          From 1978 Nobody's Perfect

A FEW PICTURES FROM  BOAT RENTAL IN VENICE  & LAGOON ADVENTURE

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Rent a boat in Venice

• Yacht rental
• Rent a boat in Italy

Cantieri longo - Moby 25open |  (2023)

From €990 per day.

DALLA PIETÁ - PACIFICO | 1 cabin  (1967)

From €1,200 per day.

Yacht&Co - Adriatic 19.5 |  (2018)

From €315 per day.

Canal salso - Saver 19 open | 1 cabin  (2017)

From €255 per day.

Italcantieri - Borasportman |  (1971)

From €1,015 per day.

Ranieri - Azzurra |  (2015)

From €150 per day.

Yacht & Co - Voyage 18 |  (2019)

From €250 per day.

yacht & Co - Style 19 |  (2015)

From €260 per day.

Dalla Pieta' - Dp 6 |  (1963)

From €800 per day.

Quicksilver - cruiser 605 | 1 cabin  (2023)

From €440 per day.

Yacht & Co - Voyage 18 |  (2015)

De Pellegrini Venezia - Semicabinato |  (1976)

From €1,000 per day.

Orizzonti - Calipso |  (2024)

Regal - Commodore 3060 - All inclusive | 2 cabins  (2003)

Aprea - Lancia Sorrentina |  (1960)

From €360 per day.

Sciallino - Sciallino 20 | 1 cabin  (1996)

From €420 per day.

Vizianello - Vizianello | 1 cabin  (1982)

Orizzonti - Calipso |  (2023)

From €490 per day, explore venice with a yacht rental.

It's safe to say you've heard about the iconic city of Venice, Italy, but did you know that Venice is actually a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and connected by bridges? This stunning city in northeastern Italy is known for its beautiful canals and gondolas. If you're looking to sail the open waters, Venice is the perfect place to do so! With its mild climate and large number of canals, Venice is a sailor's paradise, and at Scansail we have a large fleet of yacht rentals in Venice to help you have the holiday of a lifetime. There are few places in the world more unique than Venice. See the city's famous landmarks, such as the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Basilica, cruise along the labyrinth-like waterways or take a leisurely stroll through one of Venice's many parks. No matter what your interests are, Venice is sure to have something for you! Rent a yacht in Venice to see everything that it has to offer, and more.

How much does it cost to charter a boat in Venice?

The price of a yacht rental in Venice will depend on a number of factors such as the time of year, the type of boat you choose and how many people are on board. Below are some average prices of a boat charter in Venice by vessel type.

€4,500 / week in the high season and €1,700 / week in the low season for 8 people.

€1,150 / day for 6 people.

€250 / day for 8 people.

€3,498 / week for 12 people.

€320 / day for 3 people.

€17,500 / week for 15 people.

What are some things to see and do on a yacht rental in Venice?

There's so much to see and do on your private yacht rental in Venice that it can be hard to know where to start. Here is a list of some top activities for your Venice adventure.

• Take a break from your boat charter and hop on a Gondola ride through the canals.
• Visit the Rialto Bridge.
• Stroll Through St. Mark's Square.
• See the Venetian Glassblowers in action.
• Marvel at the Doge's Palace
• Cruise along the Grand Canal and marvel at the quaint houses on the water, as well as the gondolas gliding alongside you on the water
• Visit the islands of Murano and Burano and see the colourful houses in these charming villages!

What is the best time of year for a yacht rental in Venice?

The best time of year for a yacht charter in Venice is during the months of April, May and September The weather is warm but not too hot, and the water is still relatively calm. These months also offer the opportunity to experience the city during its famous Carnival celebration. Venice is also incredibly touristy, so we recommend avoiding the summer months as that is when it is at its most crowded.

For a worry-free holiday in Venice, opt for a skippered vessel!

Have you ever wanted to explore the open water on a boat, but don't know how to operate one? Or maybe you're an experienced sailor but don't want the hassle of having to captain your own vessel. Either way, there are plenty of good reasons to consider a boat charter with a skipper on board. Let someone a skipper worry about the navigation and steering while you take in the scenery and soak up the sun. It's the perfect way to unwind and forget about your troubles for a while. If you're new to boating, chartering a yacht with a skipper can be a great way to learn from someone with experience. They can teach you the ropes and help you get comfortable operating a vessel. But the best part about having a skipper on board your yacht rental in Venice is that you can explore places you might not have otherwise been able to reach on your own. They'll know all the best spots to anchor for swimming, fishing, or just enjoying the view. You might even discover some hidden gems that only locals know about!

Frequently Asked Questions about Venice

How much does it typically cost to charter a boat in venice during peak and off-peak seasons.

During the high season in Venice, the average daily rental cost for a boat is around €530, while in the low season, it's approximately €480.

Are boats available for rent with a skipper in Venice?

In Venice, you have the option to charter a boat with a skipper through Scansail. They offer 6 boats in Venice with skippers, though please note there is an additional fee of approximately €190 per day.

Can you rent a boat in Venice if you don't have a license?

In Venice, you can rent one of 49 boats without a license.

Which boat brands are popular choices in Venice?

The top boat brands in Venice are Hanse and Jeanneau.

What length do boats typically have in Venice?

The typical boat length in Venice is 10 meters.

Charter a boat near Venice

In Venice, privately owned yachts are available for charter. See other yachts in the area.

The Ultimate Guide to Venice’s Canals: Boat Rides and Gondola Tours

• Italy , Venice

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the ultimate guide to boat rides and gondola tours in the magical floating city of Venice! A place where romance and adventure seamlessly blend together to create an unforgettable experience for all those who dare to embark on a journey through its charming canals.

Romantic Gondola Rides: The Iconic Way to Explore Venice

First things first, let’s talk about the most iconic way of exploring Venice, the gondola tour. Imagine yourself lazily drifting through the winding waterways of Venice, serenaded by the soothing voice of your gondolier as they skillfully navigate the narrow canals, while you kick back and relax in your very own private Venetian taxi. And let’s not forget, what’s a gondola ride without a little bit of drama? So make sure to bring your best “Help, we’re lost!” face for when the gondolier takes you through a random narrow canal, pretending to be lost, just for the thrill of it.

Explore Venice in a Practical Way with the Vaporetto

But not everyone is a hopeless romantic, and some of you may prefer a more practical approach to your canal exploring. For you folks, we recommend the vaporetto, Venice’s very own public water bus. Sure, it’s not as intimate as a gondola, but it’s definitely more affordable and gets the job done. Plus, you’ll get to rub shoulders with the locals, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good people watching session?

Thrill-Seekers Rejoice: Take a Private Boat Tour in Venice

But what if you want to really get off the beaten path? For the thrill-seekers out there, we highly recommend taking a private boat tour. These tours allow you to explore the lesser-known nooks and crannies of Venice’s waterways, and visit areas that are often missed by the regular tourist. Imagine the look on your friends’ faces when you tell them you got to see the “secret” canal that only locals know about. Bonus points if you manage to get a captain that doubles as a history teacher and adds in a little bit of culture and education to your adventure.

So whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a practical traveler, or an adrenaline junkie, one thing is for sure, exploring the canals of Venice is a must-do activity. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique and beautiful city from the water, and let the journey begin!

But before you head out, remember to pack your sense of humor and your willingness to get a little wet, because in Venice, the only thing that’s certain is the unpredictability of the weather and the charm of the locals.

• Tags: Italy , Venice

Here are some other posts you might enjoy:

Venice on a Budget: Tips and Tricks for Saving Money

Off the Beaten Path in Venice: Exploring the City’s Hidden Gems

Day Trips from Venice: Exploring the Beautiful Veneto Region

Romance in Venice: The Most Romantic Things to Do in the City

Exploring the Eternal City: A Guide to Rome’s Best Neighborhoods

Discover the Magic of Venice: A Weekend Itinerary

The Top 10 Things to Do in Rome: A Traveler’s Itinerary

The Most Instagrammable Spots in Florence: A Photographer’s Guide

Foodie Paradise: A Guide to Rome’s Best Restaurants

Discovering the Charm of Rome: A Weekend Getaway Guide

5 Must-See Sights in Rome: A Traveler’s Guide

The Best Day Trips from Florence: Discovering Tuscany’s Beauty

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Venice Boat Tour with Grand Canal & Tower Climb

• Escape the crowds on dry land and visit the top sights in Venice from the water, with a special stop at one of the city’s least-visited islands. Here, you'll have the opportunity to climb the bell tower for panoramic views.
• Your luxury Venice boat tour will cruise the Grand Canal, passing the most important palaces, buildings, and bridges of the city, as well as the smaller back canals where you'll catch glimpses of everyday life.
• This is our most intimate Venice tour, with only nine people per boat. You’ll find it easy to hear your guide while they tell you the fascinating stories behind the sights as you pass them from the water.

Preview the experience

Tour description, explore venice in comfort from the water on a luxurious boat tour..

One of Venice’s best traditions is boating down the Grand Canal. The city's main waterway serves as a passage for ambulances, cargo vessels and gondolas, while its shores are lined with the most beautiful palaces and bridges. You'll see them all and soak up the atmosphere of the Grand Canal on our luxury Venice boat tour. As you pass each one, your guide will tell you the stories and anecdotes that make them so incredible, from the Ca' d’Oro and Ca' Pesaro palaces to the Rialto Bridge, Rialto Fish Market, and the Accademia Gallery.

From the water, you’ll see the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and other beautiful palaces like never before. But you'll also explore the prettiest inner canals—Venice’s "backstreets"—to get a sense of how Venetians really live.

Admire the best view in Venice from the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore.

As your Venice boat tour draws to a close, you’ll have seen the most famous sights of Venice from the water. Your off-the-beaten-path experience wraps up with something quite special. Few visitors take the time to visit the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. That’s their loss and you’re about to find out why.

We’ll stop just across the water from St. Mark’s Square. Ever seen a postcard of the Doge’s Palace and Venice from across the water? This is where that iconic shot was taken! Your guide will lead you inside the stunning basilica for a tour of its art and architecture, then you’ll have the option to climb the bell tower (admission is included in the price of your tour and there is an elevator). We strongly advise that you do!

Stepping outside, you’ll be hit full force by a sweeping panoramic view over all of Venice. Trace the route of the Grand Canal, admire the dome of St. Mark’s Basilica and marvel at this incredible—and incredibly unique—corner of Italy. With your guide on hand to point out what’s what, you’ll get to grips with the city beneath your feet.

Small groups, a luxury boat, and an expert guide offer a truly VIP experience.

It’s the little details that really make this Venice boat tour. While riding a gondola is a fantastic experience, the Grand Canal is too busy and its current too strong to make any real progress. Instead, on this tour you'll cruise the canals in a luxury speedboat. You'll have the option to either sit inside and listen to your guide’s commentary, or stand outside snapping the best photos. With audio headsets for every guest, you won’t have a problem hearing your guide no matter where you choose to ride. What's more, with small groups of only nine people or less—the smallest of our Venice experiences—it'll be easy to interact with your guide and ask them all the questions you can think of.

Our Venice boat tour takes you away from the crowds to experience the best that the city has to offer, from the famous Rialto Bridge to the secret spots Venetians show to visiting friends. And with a local on hand to tell you the stories woven into the fabric of the Floating City, your experience will be as authentic as they come. You’ll return to dry land relaxed, refreshed and with tons of new knowledge and appreciation for this fascinating island city.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, jul 31, 2024.

A great boat tour around Venice with our lovely informative guide Alessia. We enjoyed all the information our guide had to share about her beautiful home city.

Jun 07, 2024

This tour is a great diversion from the main attractions. It’s a relaxing way to cruise the canals in a private shared boat and the trip to the tower was a lot of fun. It’s a great tour for just a few hours.

Jun 06, 2024

Tour was absolute great! We learned and saw a lot of Venice in a short time. We booked this trip so that it was within 2 hours of our arrival to Venice!

Oct 29, 2023

Disappointed that the Tower was closed (no fault of Walks) but our tour guide was outstanding - great positive, infectious personality with a tremendous amount of information. Small group (6) was also a huge plus compared to other tours.

Oct 20, 2023

Despite the weather and acqu’alta which prevented us from doing some parts of the tour, we had a fabulous time. Daria our guide was wonderful, so knowledgeable and clearly a local who loves her city, one of the best tour guides we have ever had. I was with my 87-year old, not very mobile, mother and Adriano the pilot was amazing with her, helping her into and off the boat. If you don’t have much time and really want to see the main sites of the city I highly recommend this tour.

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Similar tours, premium lagoon excursion: murano glass making, burano & wine tasting, tastes & traditions of venice: food tour with rialto farmers market & lunch, welcome to venice: walking tour, st mark's basilica & gondola ride.

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Venice is just a sail away

Discover the Venice lagoon with the “bragozzo”, the typical Venetian boat from the early 1900s.

Sail Away to Something Great

Discover Venice

Discover the Venice lagoon with our"bragosso".

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A different day in Venice with your friends or family

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Organize a special dinner in bragosso

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See our tour proposals in Venice and enjoy your sail!

A fragment of Venetian history

The best days are spent on the water.

We are the only Bragosso (with real sails) actually sailing in Venice. There is no other at the moment.

This is very sad, but we believe that we can increase the number of these boats even if just a tiny part of the tourists will contribute to this kind of sustainable tourism projects.

As you all know, in Venice there are many options to explore the lagoon. You can rent   motor boats and also modern sailing boats that can sail only in the canals, but there is no option to sail an authentic venetian classic sailing boat that was the most used fishing boat before the invention of the engine.

Now this option is possible, you can sail an authentic Bragosso which is suitable for the lagoon and for the open sea. This sailing boat can sail in almost any part of the lagoon because it’s designed for Venice, to sail in even 60 cm deep water. A modern sailing boat can sail only on the canals because of the keel.

Discover the Venice lagoon

Sailing Tours

Half Day (4 hours anytime)

• Short sailing tour around Certosa Island

Price: 900€

50% discount: 450€.

INSIDER TIP

• Sunset aperitiv aboard

Price: 700€

50% discount: 350€.

• Tour 1: Northern Lagoon
• Tour 2: Southern Lagoon
• (approximately from 10:00 to 18:00)

Price: 1600€

50% discount: 800€, want more solutions.

you can design your tour with the help of our skippers  and customize your sailing experience.

We Are Where Good Sailing Happens

A centuries-old art, a unique experience, the magic of the silence of sailing boats. All this is Classic Sailing Venice

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Special sailing trips to get to know the Venetian lagoon

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Years of experience with all types of sailing boats.

Old tradition

Venice tells its secrets in the most unknown corners of its lagoon.

Everything has its price, but the value of this experience is invaluable.

Book Your Tour

Contact us to check availability and book your tour.

Organize a wonderful sailing cruise with a typical Venetian boat.

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Venice, Italy – 15 Weird and Wonderful Types of Boats You Can Only See in La Serenissima

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 26th October 2021

Categories Lists , The Surprising Italy , Veneto , Venice

Boats are to Venice what cars are to the rest of the world.

In other words – a vehicle used daily to get you from point A to point B and to transport anything and everything you need.

Instead of roads built on terra firma , Venice has water and lots of it. Crisscrossed by canals and with narrow, curvy streets, the city is a car-free heaven. There you can go for a lovely stroll without worrying about stressed drivers, Chelsea tractors and road rage.

Still, have you ever wondered how do they make a city of just over 50 000 permanent residents and a yearly influx of 30 million(!) tourists tick like a clock and work smoothly without any cars?! Because, you know, lorries can’t really drive into Venice to deliver food and parcels don’t arrive on drones (just yet).

Well, for all of this and so much more, Venice uses boats.

It is quite incredible, really!

Boats have been adapted to serve any and all purposes that cars are used for in the rest of the world. You just need to stop and look at Venice’s canals for all of five minutes and you will glimpse a fabulous collection of boats which you won’t be able to see anywhere else.

Yes, gondolas are not the only type of boat they use there!

From policemen and firemen to TV crews, everyone in Venice uses boats to do his or her job.

So, just to give you an idea of the variety of boats you can see in Venice, here is a collection of photos. I took them over three and a half years of trips to La Serenissima. They show you the ingenious ways the local people have found to adapt to life on water. And are a testament to how special Venice really is. After all, its people have overcome the most inhospitable environment for human life and turned it into one of the most splendid places on Earth.

Venice, Italy – 15 Weird and Wonderful Types of Boats You Can Only See in La Serenissima

1. delivery boats in venice.

After all, if you live in Venice, how else would you be getting your new washing machine delivered to you?

Boats are used for all sorts of deliveries in Venice.

From DHL packages to food, everything has reached the shelves of the local shops by boat. No wonder then that sometimes the prices in La Serenissima can seem just a touch higher.

You will see delivery boats everywhere in Venice. Even on the Grand Canal.

And, when I say that everything is delivered by boat, I mean everything. Including gas bottles! Yes, see below!

2. House-moving boats in Venice

For one of those stressful occasions when you need to move home in Venice and your sofa just doesn’t float well. Then, you load all your earthly possessions on a boat, cover them with plastic sheets and off you go along the canals to your new abode.

3. Car-Ferrying Boats in Venice

Yes, you cannot drive a car in Venice, but you can do so on the Lido. This is the nearby island where the Venice Film Festival takes place each year. So, if you and your car want to reach Lido, then you two take a ferry and sail past Venice.

4. Family Boats in Venice

A few days ago I had the chance to be part of a guided visit for families in Venice. We toured Squero di San Trovasio – one of only two gondola-making and -repairing workshops still in existence in La Serenissima. When the master gondola-maker started his talk, the first thing he asked the children was: ‘So, do you have a boat?!’

And almost all of them said: ‘Yes!’

The most curious thing was that the children didn’t find the question strange or extravagant. For families in Venice have a boat the same way you and I may have a car. It serves them to get around, go on a nice day trip or, even, to watch events taking place in Venice from the water. I still remember seeing the Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics in Venice a few years ago. The press boat, that I was in, was surrounded by dozens of boats – from dinghies to proper yachts – with whole families (and a few dogs in them) enjoying the race.

5. Rubbish-Collecting Boats in Venice

For the amount of people who visit every day, Venice is a surprisingly clean and tidy town. All this is thanks to the very hard work of the local binmen. They push their metal trolleys with heavy bins on top, collect the rubbish left in plastic bags by the doors of the citizens of Venice and then take it all away in large boats designed to carry a metal rubbish container on board.

Next time that you are in Venice, spare a thought for them.

I spotted these two chaps removing an old sofa and an old Hi-Fi from a house in Venice.

Then, they lifted them one by one and threw them in the boat. Finally, they used the small hoist (that is mounted on the boat) to lift their metal trolley back on board and off they went to the next stop on their job.

6. Boats for Heavy Loads in Venice

Boats carrying construction materials (as well as other heavy loads) are a frequent sight in Venice. How else would you be getting the heavy bags of cement and the thick wooden planks to the centuries-old house or palazzo you are restoring, for example?

7. Refrigerating Boats in Venice

Because how else would you be getting a load of frozen meat and seafood to places around town. The curious thing is that I had never seen a refrigerating boat in Venice prior to this past Saturday. And then, the second that I spotted my very first one and snapped like a dozen photos of it, two more refrigerating boats sailed by.

Click here to discover the hidden gems of Venice – 101 Things to do In Venice, Italy Off the Beaten Track

8. boats for photoshoots in venice.

Well, this is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it’s true, nevertheless! Venice is a rich playground for photographers. Here every corner and, ahem, boat have been captured on camera time and time again. Now, Venetian boats are being used as sets for photoshoots, too.

Focus on the tiny gondola above the large delivery boat in this photo. You will see the huge softbox that the photographer’s assistant is holding, while the photographer is happily snapping away underneath!

9. Vaporettos in Venice

Vaporettos are the Venetian public transport. They are veritable water buses and zip up and down the Grand Canal and all over Venice plus the nearby islands thus ensuring that locals and tourists can get around.

Tickets are expensive and queues can get really long but the views are magnificent. In fact, you haven’t been to Venice unless you have taken the vaporetto. At least once.

10. Water Taxis (Motoscafi) in Venice

Water taxis are shiny and speedy. Zipping up and down the canals of Venice on one must give you that amazing feeling  that film stars get on the red carpet. Unfortunately, the water taxis (or motoscafi as they are locally called) are quite expensive.

During my last visit to Venice a couple of days ago, I noticed lots of motoscafi being rented by large groups of tourists. Standing up at the back of the boat, then they proceed to film on tablets and snap on their mobiles the whole ride around the canals. I would imagine it’s speedier and cheaper per person than a ride on a gondola.

Still, if one day I can stretch as far as to rent a motoscafo in Venice, I would like it to be the full experience, i.e. me dressed in a lovely dress with a glass of sparkling juice in hand… You get the idea. Something like Amal Clooney, but rounder.

11. Press Boats

When a large event happens in Venice, the world’s press descends on it eager to capture it all.

What do you think?! How do journos and photogs get to follow the proceedings (which are usually on water)? Yes, you are right! They get in a boat. Just like in the picture above. This was the press boat at the Befana race  in Venice a couple of years ago.

And here is a boat with a TV crew broadcasting live. It looks so cool!

12. Police Boats in Venice

Policemen and policewomen of Venice get everywhere by boat. The first time that you see them riding around on the canals, you get this very difficult to put in words emotion. Like, for the first time you realise that Venice, for all its splendour and romance, is  a living and breathing city where actual people live. And it is not just set up for tourists.

13. Fire Engine Boats in Venice

You may think that by being built on water, Venice wouldn’t need firemen. Yet, this isn’t so. Venice not only needs to have firemen (as any other place on Earth), but they also get to ride on these swanky fire engine boats.

14. Ambulance Boats in Venice

The ambulance boats you can see in Venice are really amazing. Just imagine having to rush along long and curvy canals to save lives, dodging dozens of other watercraft. I have a huge respect for the people who drive and work on these water ambulances in Venice. It must be a really difficult job.

15. Hearse Boats in Venice

And when the time comes to leave it all behind, the last journey of the people of Venice is, once again, by boat. The hearse boat takes them one last time to church and then across to the island of San Michele, where Venice’s cemetery is.

You may ask: ‘But what about the gondolas, the traghetto, and all those fancy boats they use in Venice during their historic parades?’

Well, in this article, I wanted to show you and tell you a bit about the weird and wonderful boats which make it possible for Venice to live in our modern times. It is quite incredible, really, how people there have adapted the boats to serve them for any task and any type of transportation need.

If you want to learn more about the more traditional boats of Venice, please, explore the following links:

Venice Historical Regatta – giving you a first-hand account of this grand yearly event in Venice.

Sport, History and Men in Leotards – giving you a front-row, first-hand account of the 60th Edition of the Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics. There are lots of photos there of amazing boats and a story about the maritime rivalry between Venice, Genoa, Pisa and Amalfi.

Exploring Venice: Aresenale’s Porta Magna and the Ships Pavilion – giving you a peek into the Venetian Arsenal (the largest industrial complex in Europe prior to the Industrial Revolution) and the adjacent Ships Pavilion where you can see many different Venetian boats and learn about their history.

Traghetto – giving you the story behind this plain gondola-like boat which ferries passengers across the Grand Canal.

Gondolas and the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore – a little poetic piece I wrote about gondolas some time ago. I will be posting about my visit to the gondola-making and -repairing workshop Squero di San Trovasio in Venice soon, too. So, please, keep checking the blog.

Thank you for reading! Please, leave me a comment, pin the image below or use the buttons right at the end to share it on social media.

For more stories like this you can follow me on  Facebook  and  subscribe  to my weekly strictly no-spam newsletter.

Allan Williams

Thursday 5th of July 2018

Did you forget that there are several different types of boat in Venice which are rowed, and rowed the Venetian way?

Thank you for your comment. This article is not about the traditional Venetian boats but about boats which have been adapted (similarly to cars and vans) to serve several day-to-day purposes like delivering mail, transporting heavy loads and taxing people around the lagoon. Best wishes, Rossi

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The Gondola is Venice most iconic boat. Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about it.

Everything and some more about the venice gondola.

We all know what a gondola in Venice is, right?

“It’s the boat of the gondoliers !” – you say.

Well, that’s a good starting point, but there is so much more to it!

And our article about the Venice gondola will tell you all about it.

Related: Want to go on a gondola ride? Here’s everything you need to know!

Proceed to our article on the Venetian gondola below, to become a true expert on the matter. Or use the Interactive Index if you’re looking for something specific.

Interactive Index

What is a gondola, similarities between the gondola and other venetian boats.

• Unique features of Venetian gondolas
• Black gondolas are the most famous Venetian boats

Not all black boats used for tours in Venice are gondolas

Not all gondolas are black.

• Gondolas can be colourful or plain, just like the other traditional Venetian boats
• The sports gondolas are less fancy than their cousins

The first gondola

• An evolving shape
• Gondola as a symbol of power

The reason why all gondolas in Venice were black

• The final shape of the Venice Gondola is designed for better one-man rowing
• Gondola rides in Venice determined the look of “modern” gondolas
• Why is the Gondola asymmetric?

Why does the Venetian oarlock have such a strange shape?

• What is the difference between Venetian Rowing and punting?
• Can I become a gondolier?

Are there women gondoliers?

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The Gondola is the most famous traditional Venetian boat. It is an 11 m long and 1,42 m wide handmade boat , built with 280 pieces of 8 different kinds of wood , weighing about 400 kg. Gondolas are built in traditional Venetian dockyards called “squeri,” and every gondola needs about six months to be made. The final cost of a gondola is around 40.000 euros .

General information about the Gondola in Venice

Below you will find crucial information about the Venetian gondola, such as its measures and the differences with other traditional Venetian rowing boats. Ready?

There are 3 things in common to all traditional Venetian rowing boats:

• All are flat bottomed. Traditional Venetian rowing boats don’t have a keel!
• The don’t have a rudder. The rower at the back of the boat stirs the boat by pivoting an oar in an (open) oarlock, a forcola.
• Rowing is performed standing up, looking forward, and pushing.

These characteristics are standard in all traditional Venetian rowing boats , as they are a consequence of the shallow lagoon in which Venice was built.

The flat bottom and the absence of the rudder allowed Venetian boats to navigate over very shallow waters. Similarly, the standing position gave rowers the opportunity to see in advance which route to take. In fact, rowers can understand the depth of the water ahead by how the waves move on the surface.

Apart for its elegance and beauty, there are other elements that set the gondola apart from other Venetian rowing boats.

Unique features of Venice gondola

Two characteristics of the gondola are quite known. First, the gondola is asymmetric. Second, it is stirred from an elevated position at the stern. However, both these two features are not unique and shared with the lesser known “pupparin” boat.

Unlike any other boat, however, the gondola has a unique shape which keeps only 60% of the length submerged. Moreover, the boat is characterized by two peculiar ornaments , the big “fero da prova” on the front and the smaller “riço” at the back of the boat.

The front ornament , in particular, is an element that is not just decorative and part of the tradition, but also necessary as it adds weight to the bow of the gondola, counterbalancing the weight of the gondolier at the stern !

For centuries, gondolas have been a crucial element of Venetian life. Today, things are a bit different.

The gondola in Venice today

Blak gondolas are the most famous boats in Venice

Today, Venetian gondolas are most known as a black boat used in Venice for tours through the narrow canals of the city. Gondoliers, in fact, offer visitors the possibility to ride on a gondola through Venice for a fixed price of 80 euros for a 25-30 minutes tour.

As of today, there are only 260 to 280 such work gondolas, for a total of 430+ gondoliers and 160+ substitutes . However, there are few things worth mentioning.

Gondolas are one (the most famous, indeed) of several types Venetian boats, and they are not the only type of boat used for tours. Also “ sandolo ” boats, in fact, are used for tours through Venice . For obvious reasons, those who row a “sandolo” for work, are not called “gondolieri,” but “sandolisti.”

Work gondolas are all black, no doubt, but gondolas exist in many other colors! Think of the car models of the taxis in your city. Taxis might well be yellow, but that does not imply that all such car models must be yellow. Work gondolas must be black, but there are over 100 gondolas which are not used for work !

Rowing , in fact, can also be a sport or a leisure . It should come as no surprise that gondolas, the queens of all traditional Venetian boats, are the most appreciated boat amongst athletes and Venetian rowing lovers.

Gondolas can be colorful or plain, like the other traditional Venetian boats

Gondolas used for leisure typically retain the color of wood. Few can even be painted in black. In no case, however, do they have all the decorations, seats and pillows typical of work gondolas.

Most sports gondolas, on the other hand, belong to clubs and are painted with the according colors.

An exception are the gondolas part of the town hall fleet, which are painted in plain bright colors. Those boats, and other type of traditional Venetian boats, are used by rowers during official rowing competitions.

The sports gondola are less fancy than their cousins

What is peculiar about sports gondolas and other Venetian rowing boats used for competitions, is that they are stripped off everything that is not necessary for the race . Such boats, in fact, have no benches, no seats, and no floor !

The only “paioli,” the wooden tiles which make up the floor on which to stand, that are kept in competitions boats are those on which rowers need to put their feet on while rowing!

Now you know everything about modern times gondola in Venice, but the origins of the gondola date far back in the past.

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The origins of the gondola

The word “ gondola ” was first used by the Doge Vitale Falier back in 1093 C.E. , but it’s origin stem from a boat, “scaula,” in use since early 900.

Compared to today’s gondola, the original version was much broader, much shorter, and symmetrical . Bow and stern laid flatter than those of today, and the front and rear ornaments of the ancient gondola were but simple metal blades.

The evolving shape of the gondola in Venice

In late 15-hundred , gondola makers started changing the shape of the gondola. They made longer and thinner hull, whose extremities came out of the water .

These changes were necessary due to the growth of the city and the need to navigate through a multitude of narrow canals. The new gondolas were easier and faster to maneuver as a smaller portion of the boat was submerged, diminishing friction.

The gondola in Venice as a symbol of power

With this new design, the gondola soon became a favorite amongst Venetians. In fact, in 1600 C.E. there were over 10.000 gondolas in Venice!

The gondolas, however, became also a symbol of power for Venetian families , which started decorating their gondolas in magnificent ways.

The final shape of Venice Gondola is designed for better one-man rowing

During 1800, the gondola’s length reached 11 m, the same as today, and its stern and bow were lifted even farther. It was only at the beginning of the XX century, however, that the gondola reached its final shape, with an even higher stern and bow, and a strong asymmetry, which makes it easier for the gondolier to control the boat.

Venetian families spent so much money and energy to have the most beautiful and luxurious gondolas , that the Serenissima government had to intervene!

On the 8th of October 1562, in fact, the Venice Senate decided to halt this “fever” and passed a law that forced all gondolas to be painted in black.

Gondola rides in Venice determined the look of ``modern`` gondolas

The gondolas we see today , however, are different from those of the past for one more reason: they lack the “ felze.”

The “felze” was a removable shell made of wood and metal, that covered the passengers . It was used and much appreciated for two simple reasons: it shielded passengers from the cold wind in the winter and the hot sun in the summer, and it protected them from prying eyes.

In fact, Venice was the city of parties, luxury, masks, and sex, and the felze was an essential part of the gondola for hundreds of years!

The felze is thought to have been abandoned due to the growing number of tourists coming to Venice since early 19hundred.

Visitors didn’t appreciate much the intimacy of this covered cabin, as the reason for most of them to board a gondola was to see the city, rather than having an intimate encounter.

Now that you know everything about the gondola, do you know what’s missing? Going on a gondola ride !

For those of you who want even more details about Venetian gondola, we have explained a few more aspects of this fascinating boat below.

Curiosities about the Gondola in Venice:

Why is the gondola asymmetric?

We mentioned before that the gondola evolved to become asymmetric to improve maneuverability . But why would something asymmetrical be easier to stir than something which is symmetrical? Right?! Well, let’s explain it better.

On every Venetian boat, the boat is stirred from the back . The rower at the back pivots a long oar on the oarlock that is at his right . The moment the rower PUSHES the oar, which is on the right of the boat, the boat rotates to the left .

In the case of the gondola, however, its asymmetric shape tends to make the boat turn to the right . This way, the forces created by the natural form of the boat and the rowing of the gondolier are counterbalanced and make it easy to go straight , even though the rowing happens only on one side.

Note: Despite being symmetrical, all Venetian boats can be rowed only by one person. However, on such boats, the counter-force that has to be applied by the rower to keep the boat straight is much higher than the force needed on a gondola!

The forcola, the beautiful Venetian oarlock, has such a peculiar shape as it gives the rower the possibility of pivoting its oars on different spots .

The oarlock makes it possible to row forward slowly, row forward fast, turn quickly, slow down, row backward , and finally stop the boat.

What else has to be noted is the fact that the “forcola” is not an oarLOCK . The forcola, in fact, is open and the oar can be quickly removed from it , making it possible to promptly park the boat or avoid striking other boats with it.

What's the difference with punting?

Venetian rowing is entirely different from punting, as the propulsion of the boat is given by the displacement of water caused by the movement of the oar .

Unlike poles used for punting, the blade of the Venetian oar is broad and has two sides .

One side of the oar has a hydrodynamic edge that is used for “breaking” the resistance caused by water during the pushing, while the other side is smooth .

How can I become a gondolier?

It’s highly unlikely for any person that was not born in Venice to have a chance at becoming a gondolier. It’s a fact.

Moreover, in the last preliminary examination to become a gondolier in May 2018, 60 people passed the test. However, only 5 of them   did not have a gondolier as a relative .

How does a Venetian become a gondolier?

P assing the preliminary examination is just the first step. After, one must follow classes of Venetian rowing, Venetian history, and language classes , organized by the gondola guild.

Finally, it’s time for the final and hardest examination:

Rowing a gondola during a busy working day .

Passing the final exam gives one the title of “sostituto gondoliere,” a substitute.

The job of a substitute is to row a gondola on behalf of a gondolier who owns a gondola license granted by the city. The revenue generated by the substitute is then split between the substitute and the gondolier.

If a substitute works on behalf of only one gondolier, he keeps 60% of the revenue. If a substitute works for more gondoliers, his share drops to 50%.

A gondolier has the opportunity to either have a substitute work in his place and keep a good share of the revenue or work by himself and keep 100% of it.

That is the reason why all substitutes want to own a gondola license. There are two ways for a substitute to become a gondolier: he either buys a gondola license from a gondolier who intends to retire or waits until the town hall hands out a few more licenses.

While in theory it is not permitted to sell a city license, it is common practice and is, actually, the most common way to become a gondolier, despite the fact that the price of a license is several hundred thousand euros .

In fact, permits are handed out by the city only once every few (sometimes many) years, and only a dozen at a time .

In August 2010, Giorgia Boscolo became Venice’s first official gondolier. (Before her, Alex Hai obtained to work as a gondolier for hotels legally, despite not having a license).

Today, there are a few women gondoliers, and more will be coming very soon!

Walk and Gondola Experience

If you’d like to know even more things about the gondola, feel free to check out our articles about the gondola front ornament and about gondola rides !

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Kylie Jenner Celebrates Turning 27 on a Luxury Yacht: 'Best Birthday Ever'

Jenner shared photos from her special day on Instagram, including a shot of son Aire eyeing her cake

Gabrielle Rockson is a staff writer-reporter for PEOPLE. She joined PEOPLE in 2023 and covers entertainment and human interest stories. She's interviewed David Beckham, Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet and many others. Her previous work can be found in OK! Magazine, MyLondon, GRM Daily, and more.

Swan Gallet/WWD via Getty; kylie jenner/instagram

Kylie Jenner is celebrating turning 27 in style!

On Monday, Aug. 12, the beauty mogul shared a peek inside her birthday celebrations in a carousel post on Instagram .

"Best birthday ever ??,” her caption read as she revealed her birthday bash took place on a luxury yacht.

The post featured snaps of the yacht's decorations, which included giant balloons that spelled out “Kylie,” as well as a dining table featuring chairs with leis on top.

Another slide featured the yacht sailing on the ocean as the sun set, as well as a photo of Jenner sitting beside her pal Anastasia Karanikolaou as they played poker.

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Jenner’s post also included a snap of her son Aire , 2, leaning in to get another taste of his mom's birthday cake with his nose and mouth already covered in frosting.

Kylie Jenner/instagram

The Kylie Cosmetics founder then shared a photo of her manicured nails, as well as a glamorous dining room set up, before closing out the carousel with a snap of a picturesque view of rocks by the ocean. 

The Kardashians star’s new snaps come after she shared photos of herself and a birthday cake that had been decorated with strawberries, blueberries and decorative icing on her official big day, on Saturday, Aug. 10.

"27 (basically 30) 🥹," her caption read. "Filled with love and so grateful. Thank you God."

Meanwhile, Jenner’s family also paid tribute to her with posts shared on Instagram.

"Happy birthday to my beautiful baby girl @kyliejenner!!!!!! I fell in love with you the moment we met… it was love at first sight!," her mother Kris Jenner wrote alongside throwback pictures of her youngest daughter.

Kendall Jenner also reposted some of Kris' pictures on her Instagram Stories, writing: "Guess who's basically 30 now? @kyliejenner," in reference to her sister’s birthday message to her in November 2023 on her 28th birthday.

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