motorboat in venice

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.

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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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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Book your tour with La Trota

This beautiful Venetian motorboat, built in 1968 in Venice and designed and built by The Oscar Shipyard.

La Trota has air-conditioning

This beautiful wooden boat also has on board an air conditioner for a cool experience while driving through Venice.

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This unique boat allows guests to discover the elegance and luxury of Venetian history with our fully restored wooden boat. This one-of-a-kind vessel served as a mode of transportation for senior officers of the Admiralty in the Lagoon of Venice from 1968 and 1986. Until late 2022 it has been expertly restored to its original state by the shipyard of Andrea Tagliapietra, complete with all original mahogany parts, retractable cabin windows, and modern amenities like radar, VHF radio, air conditioning, heating, a lowest-emission engine, and a small fridge. The boat’s upholstery is now made of durable genuine leather, matching the original Venetian navy colour and adding to its sophisticated appearance.

As the only original boat of its kind, this boat is the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship, offering a truly unique experience for premium clients. They can immerse themselves in the charm and beauty of Venice and make unforgettable memories aboard our fully restored wooden boat.

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1-Hour Motor Boat Ride on Grand Canal

Set out on a captivating journey through the iconic waterways of Venice with a private 1-hour motor boat ride along the renowned Grand Canal . This intimate tour, accommodating up to 10 guests, promises an unforgettable experience as a knowledgeable guide shares insights into the city’s rich history and culture. Admire the stunning palaces, bridges, and landmarks that line the picturesque canal while capturing breathtaking photographs. Starting and ending at the vibrant St. Mark’s Square , this scenic voyage offers a unique perspective on the enchanting beauty of Venice. Enjoy the city’s enchanting atmosphere and discover why the Grand Canal is a must-see for any visitor.

• A 1-hour private motor boat ride along the iconic Grand Canal in Venice, providing scenic views of beautiful palaces and insights into Venetian history and culture.
• Guided tour with a maximum capacity of 10 persons per water taxi, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
• Opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of Venice’s iconic landmarks and architecture from a unique perspective on the water.
• Tour starts and ends at St. Mark’s Square, with the option to explore minor canals for a more immersive experience.
• Comfortable attire recommended, with the tour adapting to weather conditions to ensure safety and enjoyment.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
• Legendary Venice St. Marks Basilica With Terrace Access & Doges Palace
• Venice in a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride
• Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

Tour Overview

A one-hour private motor boat ride on the iconic Grand Canal in Venice is the focus of this tour. Priced from $232.83 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Guests will enjoy scenic views of the area’s beautiful palaces while a knowledgeable guide provides insights into Venetian history and culture. The tour starts and ends at St. Mark’s Square, exploring minor canals along the way.

With a maximum of 10 persons per water taxi, the experience is intimate and tailored to the needs of each group. Comfortable attire and shoes are advised, as the tour may adapt to weather conditions.

Experience Highlights

Scenic views of the area’s beautiful palaces line the Grand Canal during this intimate one-hour private motor boat ride.

The knowledgeable tour guide shares fascinating insights into Venetian history and culture, bringing the city’s rich heritage to life. Guests enjoy the opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of one of the world’s most spectacular sights.

The tour starts and ends at St. Mark’s Square, allowing participants to explore some of the minor canals that branch off the main waterway.

This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the iconic landmarks and architecture that have made Venice a renowned destination for centuries.

The tour package includes a qualified guide to lead the one-hour motor boat ride along the Grand Canal. This guide will share insights into Venetian history and culture , providing a rich educational experience for guests.

Along With the guided boat tour, the package includes the motor boat itself, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey along the iconic waterways. Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are also provided, making the tour convenient and hassle-free.

While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to any sites, the guide will provide external explanations, allowing guests to fully appreciate the stunning palaces and landmarks that line the Grand Canal.

Important Information

Up to 10 persons can be accommodated per water taxi for this tour. Pets, luggage, or large bags are not allowed. The tour may adapt to weather conditions, as high water levels could affect the route. Comfortable shoes and clothes are advised. For individuals with walking difficulties, the tour may not be fully accessible, so it’s best to contact the operator for alternative arrangements.

Customer Feedback

Consistently, reviewers have awarded this 1-hour motor boat ride on the Grand Canal a 5/5 overall rating .

Customers have particularly praised the tour’s value for money , scoring it 4.5/5. Safety and service were also standout features, earning 4.5/5 and 5/5 respectively.

The tour’s organization was rated highly at 4.5/5 as well. One reviewer described the experience as "unforgettable" with a "passionate guide."

Booking and Pricing

This 1-hour motor boat ride on the Grand Canal is priced at $232.83 per person.

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum flexibility . Customers can also reserve their spot without any upfront payment, making it a convenient option.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 persons per water taxi, providing an intimate and personalized experience .

While luggage and large bags aren’t allowed, the tour is generally accessible , though those with walking difficulties may want to inquire about alternatives.

Exploring the Grand Canal

Along the Grand Canal , the 1-hour motor boat ride provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into Venice’s rich history and architectural splendor.

As the boat glides past the city’s iconic palaces, the knowledgeable tour guide shares insights into Venetian culture and the stories behind these grand structures.

Guests can admire the intricate details and vibrant colors of the buildings, capturing stunning photos of one of the world’s most spectacular sights.

Exploring the minor canals further enhances the experience, offering a unique perspective on the city’s waterways.

This immersive tour allows participants to fully enjoy the beauty and charm of the renowned Grand Canal.

Tour Itinerary

The 1-hour motor boat ride on the Grand Canal begins at St. Mark’s Square, where you’ll embark on a scenic journey through Venice’s famous waterways.

The tour features several highlights:

Admire the stunning architecture of the beautiful palaces lining the Grand Canal, as your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights into Venetian history and culture.

Explore the minor canals, capturing breathtaking photographs of one of the world’s most spectacular sights.

The tour adapts to weather conditions, and high water may affect the route, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Comfortable shoes and clothes are advised, as the tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with walking difficulties.

Contact the operator for alternative arrangements if needed.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Experience Venice Like a Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour
• Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip From Venice
• Tour of The Real Hidden Venice
• Venice: St Marks Basilica After-Hours Tour With Optional Doges Palace
• Murano Glass Experience With a Visit to a Burano Lace Island
• Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour With a Local Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Boat Ride?

Yes, the tour provides ample opportunities for taking great photos of the beautiful palaces and landmarks along the Grand Canal. The knowledgeable guide encourages guests to capture the stunning Venetian scenery throughout the 1-hour private boat ride.

Is an Audio Guide Available?

There’s no mention of an audio guide being available for this private motor boat tour of the Grand Canal. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides live commentary throughout the experience.

Are There Any Discounts for Children or Seniors?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for children or seniors on this tour. The price of $232.83 per person appears to be a flat rate, regardless of age. Travelers should contact the operator for any potential discounts or special arrangements.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time?

Yes, you can request a specific departure time for the private motor boat tour. The tour operates on a flexible schedule, so the operator can accommodate your preferred start time, subject to availability.

Is Food or Drink Provided During the Tour?

No, food or drink is not provided during the tour. The tour focuses on providing a scenic boat ride along the Grand Canal with a knowledgeable guide, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the history and architecture of Venice.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Four-course Food & Wine Pairing Elegant Dinner in Venice
• GONDOLA Tour With Four Seasons Concert by VENICE in GONDOLA
• Venice: Private Gondola Tour
• Seductive Venice: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour
• From Venice: Dolomites and Lake Braies Day Trip by Minivan
• Venice: Historical Gondola Yard Private Tour
• Venice: Private City Tour
• Venice Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Abano Terme
• Venice: Fresh Pasta Making in Private Venetian Apartment
• Private Gondola: Venices Grand Canal & Hidden Canals
• Venice: Private Guided Walking Tour
• Venice: Private Walking Tour With Local Food & Wine Tasting
• Venice: Bike Tour Honey & Artichockes on Sant’Erasmo Island
• Venice: Mazzorbo, Burano and Murano Island Walking Tour
• Venice Doges Palace & St Marks Basilica Skip-the-Line Tour

This 1-hour private motor boat ride along Venice’s iconic Grand Canal offers a enchanting and personalized experience. Guests can admire the stunning palaces , capture breathtaking photographs, and learn about the city’s rich history and culture from a knowledgeable guide . Starting and ending at St. Mark’s Square, this scenic journey promises unforgettable moments as you navigate through the picturesque canals of this enchanting city.

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Private Boat Tour Venice – The Floating City’s Divine Beauty

Venice earned a nickname from travelers as the “City of Canals,” and one trip to this romantic destination will enchant you into its magical world. Everything from the gondolas and winding canals to the extravagant palaces and beautiful bridges will leave a mark. It is for these reasons that hiring a private boat tour Venice company would make sense to help you see the city.

A private boat tour in Venice is an exclusive, personalized journey through the city’s captivating canals. Ideal for couples, these tours offer a unique opportunity to explore Venice’s hidden gems and famous landmarks at your own pace, away from the hustle and bustle. Lasting 1-2 hours, they provide an intimate, unforgettable experience of the city’s enchanting waterways, ensuring privacy and tailored exploration. Additionally, with a knowledgeable local guide, you gain insights into Venice’s rich history and culture, enhancing your appreciation of this mesmerizing floating city.  

Would you like to discover all the wonders that a private boat tour would offer you? Keep reading as we will explore the benefits and take a look at some of the private boat tours available.

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Luxo Offers

Luxo Italia offers a few excellent private boat tours that you can take in the city of Venice . The city consists of many islands that include Burano, Murano, Torcello, and Giudecca. Our guides offer extensive knowledge of the city, and you will ride with local guides in luxury boats.

Tour of the Grand Canal of Venice – One of the best ways that you can get to know the city is with a tour of the canals, and one of the most famous is the Grand Canal. As you take this tour, our guides will tell of the local legends, the curiosities, and the histories of this romantic city. The Grand Canal boat tour normally lasts from 1 to 2 hours.

Explore Hidden Venice – Private boat tours give you a chance to look at hidden spots that the average tour would overlook. You may get general information about the city, but you won’t go much deeper. This tour would take you off the beaten path to see some of the most celebrated and secret sites in the city. This is what makes a private boat tour of Venice so worthwhile.

Benefits of a Private Boat Tour in Venice

You have a couple reasons that you might want to do a private boat tour. Learning about Venice from the canals is one of the best ways that you can experience the fascinating culture and history since the city was built around them.

Personalized Experience

You can personalize the experience more easily when you book a private boat tour, and Luxo Italia will 100% customize this experience for you as a unique Italy luxury travel vacation. For example, if you’d like to take a private gondola boat ride through the canals during sunset, that is an option for travelers. You can customize the following during a private boat tour:

• Preferences and what you want to see
• Where you want to be picked up in Venice
• The route you want to see
• The things you want to do
• When to hop off the boat

The personalized experience is what luxury is all about so that you can absorb the full pleasure of the boat ride. You can enjoy it more because it was made for your personality and your loved one’s personality.

Avoids Crowds and Queues

Doing a private boat tour helps you to cut ahead of the crowds and queues so that you waste zero time during your trip. When you need to spend a lot of time waiting in line, it cuts down on the amount of time that you spend sightseeing. This is one of the private boat tours in Venice, Italy, that was designed to take you away from the crowds and help you to better understand the real Venetian culture.

Flexible Itinerary

The itinerary with a boat trip that is private is extraordinarily flexible. You set the time, and you can do whatever you’d like to do during the trip. If you want to take one of the boats to the Murano and Burano islands at a time when it’s not available with other tours, you can still do it with a private tour.

Privacy and Intimacy

You get far more privacy and intimacy when you choose a private tour over the other options. Venice is widely accepted as the most romantic city in the whole world, and it has become a top destination for honeymooners . The private tours give you more privacy and intimacy with your loved one so that you can set memories. For a truly romantic experience, we would recommend a tour around twilights and eating an intimate trattoria while watching the setting sun.

Stunning Views and Photo Opportunities

The architecture in Venice is a Gothic-style architecture that was once highly fashionable during the 12th century. All of this beautiful architecture makes for some stunning opportunities for photos, and you can also get some spectacular views from the water. To truly appreciate the views of this city, you want to get down in the canals in the boats, but you also want to see the city from the bridges over the canals. One of the bridges with a stunning view would be the Rialto Bridge.

Knowledgeable Local Guides

Many of the best local guides tend to gravitate more toward the private tours because they offer more money. This means that to get the best history and information that goes beyond the general information, you would want to hire one of the private Venice boat tours. They can also answer more specific questions that you might have because they don’t need to contend with dozens of other questions.

Customized Tours and Activities

You can customize your tour and your activities to better fit the actual things that you would like to do in Venice. Instead of getting things that was made for mass appeal, you can choose what specifically fits your personality.

Relaxed and Comfortable Atmosphere

When in a large group of people for a tour, the atmosphere is less relaxed and comfortable. For a private tour, you can just chill out and enjoy the scenery and the knowledge of your guide. Sailing through the canals of Venice is incredibly relaxing.

Unique Perspective of Venice

To truly know Venice, you need to go down into the canals in a boat, and you’d be surprised how it will change your perspective of the city. Private guides tend to have better knowledge, and they’ll offer a perspective that not everyone will hear.

Ideal for Special Occasions

Going with a private tour gives you the perfect choice for special occasions. For example, if you want to create a romantic vibe while on your honeymoon, a private tour gives it more of an intimate atmosphere.

Why Choose Luxo Italia

You should choose Luxo Italia as your private boat tour Venice company because we have the experience in luxury vacations that ensure your boat ride will truly be about luxury. We have expert local guides that will give you a better experience than the average. Our brand is committed to excellent service.

See what our customers said about us:

” The private boat tour was the highlight of my trip to Italy .” —Tony Smith

“ I had such a great time with the private boat tour. The guide was so friendly and knowledgeable and knew just how to make our experience the best. ” —Sandra Garcia

“I booked a 1 hour private boat tour, and the experience was an extravagance on the water. ” —Sam Ricci

Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions that people have with private boat tours in Venice. We see a few questions commonly pop up.

What is Special About Boat Tours in Venice?

The romantic views of the city and floating past stunning views from the canals that date back to the 5th century have all combined to make the tour special.

What Time Do Boats Start in Venice?

Many of the main routes in Venice like Vaporetto run from 5 am to 12 am. The N route, which takes you past many of the most important landmarks of the city, runs from 11 pm to 5:30 am.

How Late Do Boats Run in Venice?

The main routes in Venice run from 5 am to 12 pm, but you have 3 nighttime routes that will run from 11:30 pm to 5 am. In Vaporetto, you can expect a boat every 35 minutes in night hours.

Is Venice Canals Worth It?

You will struggle to know Venice unless you experience them in the canals. This is an essential part of the city of Venice, and it can help you to know this unique city better.

What is the Most Popular Boat in Venice?

The Venetian gondola boat stands out as the most common boat found in Venice. It has become a symbol of the city.

Can You Eat and Drink on Gondolas?

Gondoliers do not allow people to eat or drink on their gondolas, and because of this, you will want to eat your meal or sip your wine either after or before the gondola ride.

Explore Venice with Us

Are you ready to experience the magic of the canals of Venice? This city is unlike anywhere else on the planet and if you’ve never experienced it, you need to. Booking a private tour gives you the experience, but you may need one of the luxury hotels in Italy to stay while on vacation, so check them out.

Design your luxury tour.

Limited only by your imagination., follow us on instagram.

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13 BEST Boat Tours in Venice, Italy [2024]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: August 14, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Welcome to the enchanting city of Venice, a maze of waterways, islands, and exquisite bridges. Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Veneto region, it’s a city unlike any other, built on a network of 118 islands connected by canals.

On land, every corner greets you with charm and beauty as you get lost in its narrow alleys and promenades.

Even I, born and raised in Bologna, just a couple of hours south of Venice, find the city absolutely fascinating . Venice can be overcrowded and have issues with flooding, but it has a special place in my heart.

In Venice, forget cars and buses. You can choose a regular Venice tour , or get around on your own by walking and by ferry, but I highly recommend going on a boat tour as well. I mean, what better way to explore Venice than from the water?

Picture yourself gliding along the canals and under historic bridges on a traditional gondola… You’ll feel transported to a different time!

Not into a romantic gondola ride ? No problem. You can also find Grand Canal boat tours , catamaran rides, boat tours to Murano and Burano, and amazing sunset cruises .

In this article, you’ll find my careful selection of boat tours in Venice. You can trust I’ve only picked the most outstanding options, so read on!

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If you need to change your plans, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

Limited time? These are the top tours :

OUR PICK: The BEST Boat Tour in Venice, Italy

The Venice: Boat Tour with Grand Canal and San Giorgio Maggiore is our top choice. This 2-hour boat experience will have you gliding past the most iconic churches and palaces of the city. You’ll also cruise under its enchanting bridges, which are architectonic wonders.

St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Fish Market are some of the sights you’ll get to take in. All the while, your guide will provide insightful commentary about the landmarks.

Cruise along the Grand Canal, Venice’s most famous waterway, and head to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, an off-the-beaten-path gem. You’ll visit its beautiful basilica, and go up the bell tower to check out the views.

Why is this the best tour? It takes you along the Grand Canal, an unmissable route on any boat tour, enabling you to check out all the highlights of Venice. But on top of that, you’ll be taken to one of the beautiful islands that’s rarely visited by tourists.

It’s the perfect tour to combine popular attractions with local secrets. And we didn’t even get started with the views you’ll see!

Read what the reviews say :

“What a wonderful experience. Our local guide Francesca was engaging, informative and shared insight on life in Venice. Views from San Giorgio were spectacular, truly memorable. The motor cruise through the Grand Canal was very special, particularly with commentary and anecdotes.” Nina – Read more reviews

This tour includes : A speedboat, entrance ticket, headsets, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Grand Canal Boat Tour

This Grand Canal Boat Tour is the classic Venetian experience with a twist. You’ll board a modern, fancy motorboat and escape the busy streets to enjoy a relaxing cruise down the Grand Canal. 

Pass by many Patrician homes, luxurious buildings, and several landmarks as you glide along the waterfront. Make sure to keep an eye out for the astounding Rialto Bridge!

This Grand Canal tour in Venice includes : Boat ride, and a hostess. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Murano and Burano Boat Tours

▶️ Venture to the striking Venetian islands as you sail across the lagoon on this Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour . 

Prepare to be dazzled as you step into the world of Murano’s glassworks during a factory tour, and witness skilled artisans in action. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues and lacework of Burano’s charming streets, indulging in local delights along the way!

Lastly, transport yourself back in time on Torcello, known for its Venetian-Byzantine mosaics.

This Venice boat tour to the islands includes : Boat ride, glass factory visit, and free time in Burano and Torcello. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Lookoing for a different option? Hop on a Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano and Torcello . Explore the lagoon’s most captivating islands with your group and a professional guide.

Marvel at the skillful artistry of Murano’s glass masters, and prepare to be captivated by the Duomo di Murano Santi Maria e Donato. Then, delve into the colorful world of Burano with its paintings, lacework, and biscuits.

Finally, wander through the serene remnants of Venice’s ancient settlement on Torcello. This island is one of the earliest sanctuaries for refugees fleeing from invasion.

Since you’ll be riding on a private boat in Venice, the itinerary is fully customizable.

This boat to Murano and Burano includes : A private boat trip, a guide, and hotel pick-up. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Looking for more Murano and Burano boat tours ? I’ve written an entire post about it . Check it out!

Private Boat Tours in Venice

▶️ Join this Private Canal Cruise: 2-Hour Grand Canal and Secret Canals Boat Ride to glide along the city’s gorgeous waterways. 

You’ll pass by Venice’s different districts, and explore the lesser-known areas of Cannaregio, the Jewish Ghetto, and Dorsoduro.

While your guide provides insights into Venice’s history, legends, and culture, you’ll glide on the lesser-known canals. End your tour along the spectacular Grand Canal, marveling at the Rialto Bridge. 

This tour includes : A 2-hour boat ride, a guide, and stops at the Jewish Ghetto and Dorsoduro. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ One of the most spectacular Venice Grand Canal tours ought to be this Private Grand Canal Evening Boat Tour . Set sail on a private water taxi with up to 5 friends to enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Grand Canal and other smaller waterways as the day comes to an end. 

Learn about Venice’s cultural and artistic heritage from your guide as you take in the striking sights all around you. 

Choose between a 1 or 2-hour ride and enjoy personalized attention. A delightful evening awaits on this exclusive water taxi adventure!

This tour includes : A private boat, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Private Grand Canal Boat Tour and Murano Glass Experience is a great combo tour. It blends the allure of one of Venice’s major canals with the artistic marvels of Murano.

Glide along the Grand Canal and other smaller waterways, catching glimpses of the majestic palazzos and bridges. Your knowledgeable guide will unveil tales of the floating city as you drift along its main roads.  

Cross the Venetian lagoon to Murano, where you’ll disembark for some land explorations. Witness a captivating glassblowing spectacle at a renowned glass factory, and get to admire the finished pieces on the shop.

This tour includes : A private boat ride, hotel pick-up, a guide, and a glass factory visit. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Classic Gondola Ride in Venice

▶️ With a Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary you’ll glide along Venice’s canals as your knowledgeable host (AKA: your phone!) shares fascinating insights through an in-app commentary.

Admire iconic landmarks like the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, and the Salute Church. Besides, you’ll get to uncover secret canals that are only accessible by gondola!

Spot the renowned La Fenice Theatre and Mozart House, and end your journey with views of San Giorgio Island in the majestic Saint Mark’s Basin. Experience Venice’s charm in the best possible way, with the bonus of app-guided insights!

This Venice Gondola tour includes : Gondola ride, in-app commentary, and an introductory walk. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Take a Private Bridge of Sighs Gondola Ride to be awestruck by the wonders of the city’s historic center. Navigate through picturesque waterways, and pass iconic landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs and Rio di Santa Maria Formosa.

Since it’s a private tour, you’ll get to choose between a short route or an extended adventure, gliding along the majestic Grand Canal. The gondola ride can accommodate up to 5 passengers, so it’s ideal for families!  

This tour includes : A 30-minute Gondola ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Venice Sunset Cruises

▶️ Set sail on a 2-hour Sunset Gondola Ride in Venice by Typical Venetian Boat . You’ll cruise across the enchanting lagoon, passing by the historic buildings that surround it with a small group.

Immerse in the beauty of Venice Lido, San Clemente Le Grazie, and other remote islands. The sights are even more magnificent as the sun basks everything in a golden light. Toast to the experience with a half bottle of Prosecco onboard your traditional boat. 

This tour includes : Sunset boat ride, half a bottle of Prosecco, a guide, and soft drinks on request. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Spice up your evening with a delightful Venice: Catamaran Sunset Jazz Cruise with Aperitivo . Experience the alluring charm of Venice as you glide through the canals during sunset. Sail along the Bay of San Marco, and down the Giudecca Channel.

Sip on a refreshing spritz or Prosecco (or both!) and listen to soothing jazz melodies from a live saxophonist, as the colors in the sky change and Venice’s waterfront lit up. 

Pair your two drinks, which include beer and cocktails as well, with Cicchetti, the classic Venetian appetizers.

This tour includes : Catamaran cruise, live music, Cicchetti, and 2 drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Venice Dinner Cruise on a Galleon

Get ready for a magical candlelit Venetian Lagoon Tour and Galleon Dinner . Indulge in the chef’s exquisite creations, paired with wine and a glass of Prosecco.

As you dine, you’ll get to admire the San Marco Square from the water, and traverse the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano. 

Plus, you’ll be surely captivated by the lesser-known islands of Sant’Erasmo and San Francesco del Deserto you’ll cruise past.

Take in the panoramic views from the vessel’s windows, sitting comfortably as you sip on your drinks. The exclusive experience also offers the chance to disembark at the Museo Navale.

This tour includes : Boat ride, dinner, wine, and coffee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Catamaran Cruise in Venice

Step aboard a catamaran and let Venice captivate you on this Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks . Sip on a refreshing spritz or Prosecco while admiring the city’s skyline, and get ready to explore the Venetian lagoon. 

You’ll sail past the Sant’Elena island, the Giardini della Biennale, and the iconic San Marco. Plus, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Canale di Giudecca before it’s time to venture across to the enchanting Lido.

With comfortable seats, soothing music, and great views, this cruise promises a blend of relaxation and discovery.

This tour includes : Catamaran ride, and drinks (if the option is selected at check out). ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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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, sep 11, 2024.

The extensive canal tour far exceeded my expectations and while we weren’t able to go up in the tower due to a site issue, the views were amazing and our small group (4 people) was fantastic

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.

Know before you book

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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Doge's Palace

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• St. Mark's Square
• Peggy Guggenheim
• Venice Carnival
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• Ca' Rezzonico
• Venice Water Bus
• Correr Museum
• St. Mark's Bell Tower
• Marco Polo Airport transfers
• Treviso Airport transfers
• Walking Tours
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• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

Book Venice Boat Tours

Select Your Experience

Venice Shared Gondola Ride

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• This traditional gondola ride invites you to discover Venice's enchanting waterways in 30 minutes with the flexibility to choose a ride that suits you best.
• The cost-saving seating option is perfect for solo travelers, and history buffs can delight in a route under the Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge's Palace to its prisons!
• Want to share a gondola with your travel buddies? Select the options that guarantee seating in the same gondola to ensure you're in the same boat.
• Let the storytelling bug bite you by opting for bilingual live commentary or a digital app in 7 languages to hear the legends behind all the Venetian landmarks you will pass.
• Marvel at the domes of Santa Maria della Salute, the waterfront entrance of the Peggy Guggenheim House Museum, and more.
• 30-min shared gondola ride in Venice
• Gondola and seat assigned by the gondolier
• Seating guaranteed in the same gondola (optional)
• Live commentary in English and Italian (optional)
• Digital app audio commentary in Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, French & Hindi (optional)
• Special route under the Bridge of Sighs (optional)
• Headphones (ensure you bring your own)
• Tip: This experience starts just around the corner from St. Mark's Basilica. Combine your visits and tick off 2 bucket list items in 1 day!
• Please note that the ride includes a 20-minute introduction and the entire experience could last up to 50 mins total, depending on weather and canal traffic.
• Seating arrangements inside the gondola may vary for balance. This means you might not be able to sit next to your travel partner(s).
• This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.

From Punta Sabbioni: Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands Boat Tour with Glass Blowing

Start point.

Punta Sabbioni

Meet your guide and group at Pier 5 and set off on a comprehensive tour of the Venetian Lagoon!

Murano Island

1 attractions

1 activities

Step off at Murano, popular for its glass-making industry. The island also houses beautiful canals and bridges perfect for a long stroll.

1. Church of Saint Peter Martyr

The Church of Saint Peter Martyr features exquisite Renaissance art, a striking Gothic bell tower, and an impressive marble altar.

2. Glass blowing demonstration

Included in price

Visit a local glass factory and watch skilled artisans create art with ancient glass-making techniques.

Burano Island

2 attractions

Admire the vividly-painted walls and artisanal lace-makers, and try out local cuisine like risotto de gò (a risotto made with local fish) at your own expense.

1. Lace Museum

Sitting inside Podestà Palace, the Lace Museum was the seat of the Burano Lace School from 1872 to 1970. Explore the art and history of Venetian lace craftsmanship.

2. Church of Saint Martin Bishop

Gaze at the tilting bell tower of this 16th-century church located on Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, the main square of Burano.

Torcello Island

The peaceful island of Torcello rests in the northernmost part of the lagoon and offers stunning views of the bay.

1. Torcello Cathedral

The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, or Torcello Cathedral, is among Veneto's oldest churches, showcasing some of the region's earliest mosaics and exemplifying Late Paleochristian architecture.

2. The Devil's Bridge

Don't be fooled by the name. Ponte del Diavolo is a charming little bridge – just with no side rails!

• Traverse the canals and quaint alleys of 3 Venetian Lagoon islands on your day trip departing the main port of Venice, Punta Sabbioni.
• At the first stop, Murano, watch skilled artisans weaving magic through traditional glass-making methods.
• Wander through Burano Island's panoramic streets, admire a technicolor brick house, sip at one of its tiny cafés, and more.
• If selected, Torcello Island offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and lovely sights like the Devil's Bridge without siderails!
• An expert English, Italian or German-speaking guide ensures you don't miss a single detail of the sites you pass.
• Boat tour around Murano and Burano Islands
• Boat tour of Torcello Island (if selected)
• English, Italian, and German-speaking guide onboard
• Round-trip boat transfers from Punta Sabbioni Venice
• Glass blowing demonstration in Murano
• Tip: When in Burano, don't miss the charming footbridge connecting it to the tiny neighboring Tre Ponti island!
• This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.

Venice Private Gondola Ride

• The most peaceful way to discover the meandering canals of Venice is a private experience aboard a classic Venetian gondola!
• Get an exclusive escape with the people of your choice, and the opportunity to snap away at stunning waterfront architecture.
• Keep your eyes peeled for the glamorous Fenice Theater and the white stone Rialto Bridge, the city’s oldest bridge that spans the Grand Canal.
• This experience is perfect for families with little ones, small friend groups that are thicker than blood, or simply two lovers looking for a quiet escape.
• 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
• Private group tour (max 5 per gondola)
• Tip: Look out for the impressive external spiral staircase at Contarini del Bovolo Palace, near St. Mark's Square.
• Please note that the ride could last less than 30 minutes depending on weather and canal traffic.
• The ride will only be canceled in case of extreme weather conditions or a gondolier strike.

Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade

• Experience picture-perfect romance on a harmonious gondola cruise through the floating city of Venice.
• On this leisurely 30-minute ride, sprinkle a bit of magic onto your date with that special someone as you’re serenaded by traditional live music.
• Find hidden gems in liquid Venetian alleys; perhaps admire the quaint limestone Bridge of Sighs over the Rio del Palazzo – all from a unique perspective.
• Keep an eye out for the mesmerizing façade of Ca' d'Oro, a Gothic palace-turned-art museum along the Grand Canal.
• Live singer aboard one of the gondolas
• Tip: Embrace the Venetian lifestyle and go for a traditional aperitivo after your gondola ride. Join the locals at a canal-side bar for cicchetti (Venetian tapas)!
• The serenade performers will board a gondola in the center of the row so everyone can hear the music. Musicians may not be on every gondola.

St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Gondola Ride

• Tick off 2 bucket list experiences in Venice at once! Follow an expert guide through St. Mark's Basilica, then catch a famous water taxi.
• Dive right in with skip the line access to St. Mark's Basilica, as your guide helps unveil its dazzling gold mosaics in the language of your choice.
• Soak in the charm of Venice with a leisurely half hour gondola ride along the Grand Canal and smaller waterways near the Salute Basilica.
• Marvel at architectural wonders like La Fenice Theatre, and the Murano glass mosaics of Palazzo Barbarigo inspired by St. Marks' Basilica!
• Enjoy a leisurely break between the 2 tours to explore the city, indulge in local delicacies, or simply soak up the Venetian vibes.
• 1-hour guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line entry
• Expert English, Italian, Spanish, German or French-speaking guide
• 30-minute shared gondola ride in Venice
• Tip: Stop in at a local trattoria for an authentic Venetian Lunch, try local favourites like risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto) or fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
• Strict dress code: All guests must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.
• Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
• A ramp is available at the Porta del Fiori (Door of Flowers) entrance on the left-hand side of the basilica.
• The Museum on the upper floor of the basilica is served by both a lift and stair lifts.

Venice Gondola Ride

• Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons, it may not be possible to sit next to your partner.
• The gondola ride is not accessible for wheelchair users.
• Please note that the tour may not operate under exceptional high tide conditions or during religious functions at the basilica. In the event of cancellation, your tour will either be rescheduled or refunded for your convenience.

Venice Walking Tour with Grand Canal Gondola Ride

• Get to know some of Venice's top attractions including St. Mark's Square, Rialto Bridge, and La Fenice theatre, enjoying the best of the city on foot and by boat.
• Local guides provide fascinating insights on Venetian history and culture as you wander through the Saint Mark's Square and Castello.
• Glide along the Grand Canal on a 30-minute gondola ride, admiring majestic palaces and historic landmarks that line the waterways.
• Enjoy a leisurely break between tours to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of Venice, indulging in local delicacies or capturing memorable photos.
• Walking tour of Saint Mark's Square and Castello
• 30-minute shared gondola ride
• Tip: Take advantage of spectacular photo ops as you get remarkable views of Doge's Palace and St. Marks’ Bell Tower.
• This activity includes a shared gondola ride of up to 5 people. Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons.
• This tour is not recommended for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities.
• There will be a small break between the tours.
• The tour is free for children under the age of 2, provided the children do not occupy a seat in the gondola.
• Please download the audio guide on your mobile device before embarking on a gondola.

Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride

• Explore the best of Venice on this guided day tour, including seamless skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
• Glide through historic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, led by an expert gondolier who shares captivating stories.
• Learn all about the history of St. Mark's and the political significance of the Doge's Palace from an expert English-speaking guide.
• Pick what suits your plan; a half or full-day trip. Extend your tour to journey into the colorful towns of Murano and Burano Islands.
• With an optional visit to the islands, be ready to immerse in the artisanal magic of glass-blowing and lace-making workshops.
• Full/half-day tour of Venice (as per option selected)
• Guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line entry
• Guided tour of Doge's Palace with skip-the-line entry
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Round-trip transfers to/from Murano & Burano Islands (optional)
• Glass-blowing demonstration (optional)
• Lace-making demonstration (optional)

Half-day tour

• St Marks Basilica
• 30-minute gondola ride

Full-day tour

• Glass-blowing demonstration at Murano Island
• Lace-making demonstration at Burano Island
• Tip: Take advantage of the local expert knowledge! Request your gondolier to point out the lesser-known sights along the canals.
• Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
• Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not wheelchair accessible.

Venetiana: Venice Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour

• Discover the best of Venice, Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands with seamless hop-on hop-off boat transfers with your 24/48-hour HOHO pass.
• Enjoy 2 scenic routes, and get on and off unlimited times, along the islands with nearly 120 iconic landmarks spotted along the way.
• Your ticket also includes a free glass-making workshop in Murano.
• The eco-boat is equipped with an audio guide available in 5 languages, curated with intriguing tales from local authors.
• Some of the popular spots along the route include the Crooked Bell Tower, the Church of Santa Fosca, and the Church of Santi Maria and Donato.
• 24/48-hour unlimited HOHO pass
• Audio guide in 5 languages
• Glass-making show in Murano
• Entry to landmarks
• Hotel transfers
• First boat: 9:30am from Santa Lucia
• Last boat: 7:50pm from Santa Lucia
• Frequency: every 60 mins
• Popular stops: St. Mark’s Square, San Giorgio Basilica, Biennale Gardens
• First boat: 10am from Punta Sabbioni
• Last boat: 6:45pm from Punta Sabbioni
• Popular stops: St. Mark’s Square, Coast of Cavallino Treporti, Vignole vineyards

Please click here for a detailed Line A and Line B map and its boarding points from Jun 22 2024 to Nov 3 2024.

• Tip: Try finding the 2 lovers streetlamps in Murano as legend has it that anyone who finds these will be lucky in love for an entire year.
• The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German and can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.

1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Grand Canal

• Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
• Relish the sights of Venice along the Grand Canal along with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Admire exquisite Venetian buildings from your motorboat, like Santa Maria Della Salute, Ca’ Venier Dei Leoni, Palazzo Grassi, Ca’Rezonnico, and more.
• Spend an hour on the busiest canal in Venice with the bobbing Gondolas and witness the unique Venetian way of life.
• 1-hr motorboat tour
• English-speaking guide
• The tour will be conducted in English.

Venice & Murano Island Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour with Audio Guide

• Hop on and off a panoramic boat to your whims along 5 stops in Venice between St. Lucia Station and Murano Island!
• Select a pass valid for 24 or 48 hours, gaining insight on the route through a multilingual audio guide.
• See iconic landmarks – like Gesuati Church as you glide through Giudecca Canal, and the Faro di Murano lighthouse as you approach the island.
• At Murano, get the opportunity to take part in a live glass-blowing demonstration by a master glassmaker!
• 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off boat pass
• Access to Route A: St. Lucia Station to Murano
• Audio guide app in Italian, English, German, Spanish & French
• Entry to attractions
• Food and drinks
• Click here for the timetable and here for the route map.
• First boat: 9:20am from St. Lucia Station
• Last boat: 4:20pm from St. Lucia Station
• Frequency: approx every 1 to 2 hours
• Popular stops: San Marco, Tronchetto
• Tip: To spot the perfect glassworks houses at Murano, walk along the Fondamenta dei Vetrai.

Rent a boat in Venice

• Boat rental
• Rent a boat in Italy at the best price

QuickSilver 605 cruiser 115cv (2023)

• Without captain
• Super owner
• Flexible cancellation

From  $502 / day

Atlantic 20 (2011)

• Skipper optional

From  $434 / day

Yacht &Co Voyage 18 bronze (2019)

• Without license

From  $285 / day

Style 19 (2015)

From  $297 / day.

Hanse 371 (2004)

• Skipper mandatory

From  $186 / day

Venice, Marina Santelena

Summer Love - Cruises in Croatia and the Venice Lagoon (1990)

• Skipper offered

From  $897 / day

Imago Yacht Charter (2008)

• Fuel included

From  $2,740 / day

Venice, Porto di Venezia

3 days in Trieste, Slovenia and Croatia! (1976)

From  $1,096 / day.

Private boat tour of the Venice lagoon (2024)

From  $171 / day.

Venice, Marina della Giudecca

Boat without license Consorzio Cantieristica Minore Veneziana Gozzo 20hp (2012)

From  $365 / day.

Venice, Marina Scafoclub

Classic Venetian Topa Boat (2015)

From  $559 / day.

Riva Rudy (1973)

From  $1,598 / day.

Jandona Yacht (1968)

From  $3,368 / day.

**BOAT RENTAL IN HISTORIC CENTER, MOORED IN GRAND CANAL, Venice.** (1996)

From  $480 / day.

Yacht & Co Voyage 18 (2015)

La Trota (1968)

From  $2,626 / day.

Classic Tender 1938 (1938)

From  $1,056 / day.

Yacth & Co Adriatic 19,5 (2018)

From  $360 / day, boat rental in venice.

Welcome to Venice , one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, situated at the northwestern end of the Adriatic Sea . This stunning city is a true gem of the Mediterranean, with its charming canals and breathtaking architecture. Venice is truly unique, as it is built on 118 islets that are connected by a network of canals and bridges .

With its rich history and culture, Venice has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-see destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you want to explore the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace , or simply enjoy a leisurely boat ride through its winding canals, Venice has something for everyone.

At Click&Boat , we offer a variety of options for those looking for a boat rental in Venice or experience a boat rental in Venice. With our top-quality boats and expert team of professionals, you can explore this magical city in style and comfort. From romantic gondola rides to thrilling adventures on the Adriatic Sea , Venice is waiting to be discovered. So why wait? Book your boat rental in Venice today and experience this unforgettable city like never before.

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

If you’re considering renting a boat in Venice, the price will differ depending on the time of year, the number of passengers on board, and the size and type of boat you choose. Of course, additional amenities or services could also affect the price, such as having a skipper on board. 

Below are the average prices of a private charter in Venice by boat type:

What does this include?

A boat rental in Venice with Click&Boat , you can expect a fully equipped boat that comes with all the safety gear, navigation equipment, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience. Most of our boat rentals are equipped with essential water sports gear and provide the option of hiring a skipper , typically starting at an average of  $220 per day or included in the overall price.

Rent with or without a skipper

Many of our boat charters in Venice come with the option of sailing with a skipper and/or crew . Although this may come at an extra cost, having a skipper on board can, no doubt, provide you with an even more enjoyable experience! Your skipper can adapt the sailing route so that your voyage best suits the desires of you and the rest of your party.

Additionally, setting sail with a skipper will make your voyage even more comfortable! The skipper will take care of all the technical aspects of sailing , so all you need to do is sit back and relax.

If you would like to take charge of your boat charter in Venice, then bare boat charters are the way to go. Enjoy a bare boat charter if you have a license and set sail at your own pace . You need a valid boating license to enjoy a boat this way, so check with the boat owner beforehand to see that your license is valid.

Where to sail in Venice?

The Venetian Lagoon offers diverse sailing destinations, each with its unique charm and attractions: Murano , famous for its glassmaking, features calm waters and scenic canals perfect for boating.  Torcello , with its historic cathedral and tranquil atmosphere, is ideal for exploring the lagoon. Also,  San Giorgio Maggiore provides stunning views of Venice's skyline, making it a popular spot for water sports, and Sant'Erasmo , the largest island, offers a peaceful escape for sailing, fishing, and enjoying scenic vistas.

The harbors in Venice

If you're planning a boating trip to Venice, knowing the best ports and docks in the city is essential. From marinas with stunning views to those with top-notch amenities, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Venice Marina

This marina is located on the island of Certosa and offers 180 berths for boats up to 328 feet in length. The marina has a restaurant, and bar, and offers electricity, water, and fuel.

San Giorgio Maggiore Marina

This marina is located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and offers 250 berths for boats up to 195 feet in length. The marina has a restaurant, and bar, and offers electricity, water, and fuel.

Vento di Venezia

This marina is located in the Dorsoduro district and offers 25 berths for boats up to 98 feet in length. The marina has a restaurant, and bar, and offers electricity, water, and fuel.

Porto Turistico di Venezia

This marina is located on the mainland of Venice and offers 200 berths for boats up to 98 feet in length. The marina has a restaurant, and bar, and offers electricity, water, and fuel. Additionally, the marina offers rental gear for activities like diving, windsurfing, and sailing.

These ports and docks in Venice offer various amenities such as restaurants, bars, electricity, water, fuel, and rental gear for activities like diving, windsurfing, and sailing. Whether you're looking for a place to dock your boat or simply enjoy some time on the water, these ports and docks in Venice have everything you need for an unforgettable boating experience.

What to see and do in Venice, Italy!

Climb the Campanile di San Marco: Also known as the " Pizza Tower ", this bell tower offers incredible panoramic views of the city. From the top, you can see the red rooftops, winding canals, and beautiful architecture that makes Venice so unique. Visit the Rialto Market: This bustling market is a must-visit for foodies and anyone looking to experience authentic Venetian culture. Here, you'll find vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade pasta, along with souvenirs and local products. Explore the Doge's Palace: This impressive palace was once the seat of power in Venice and is now open to the public as a museum. You can walk through the ornate chambers and admire the priceless artwork, including works by Titian and Tintoretto . Go on a Wine-Tasting Tour in Veneto: Veneto is one of Italy 's top wine-producing regions, and a wine-tasting tour is a great way to experience its rich culinary heritage. You'll visit local vineyards, sample delicious wines, and learn about the history and culture of the region. Visit Libreria Acqua Alta: This quirky bookstore is a hidden gem in Venice . Located in a charming canal-side building, it's known for its creative displays of books, which include stacks of books in gondolas and a bathtub full of books. It's a unique and memorable place to visit while in Venice.

What is the best season to rent a boat?

The best time to visit and book a boat rental in Venice is typically from late spring to early fall, which last from May to September . During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from the 70s to mid-80's°F. June , July , and August are considered the high-season months , with peak tourist activity and higher prices. However, it is worth noting that Venice can be quite crowded during these months.

For those looking to avoid the crowds and save money, the best time to visit is just outside the high season , in late April to early May and September to early October . During these months, the weather is still warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 60 to 70°F. This is also a great time to enjoy the autumn foliage and harvest season in the Veneto region.

Rent a boat near Venice

In Venice, privately owned boats are available for rental. See other boats in the area.

Rent another type of boat in Venice

If you want to rent something different from the boat in Venice? Check out other boats on our website

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Olympic Ceremony Fleet in Paris: Electric Boats on Seine

Kevin Desmond looks back at the Electric fleet on the Seine for Paris 2024.

This summer has seen some great rallies for electric boats: 34 e-boats cruised around the island of Venice, 65 e-boats teams competed at the Monaco Solar Energy Boat Challenge , then on 23 July, despite heavy rain, watched by 326,000 riverside spectators and viewed by 1.5 billion on their screens worldwide, 32 electric boats, some retrofitted some new, were part of a fleet of 85 boats which were transporting 205 flag-waving delegations of athletes, cruised for 6.3 km along the River Seine from Austerlitz Bridge to the Trocadéro for the unprecedented opening of the 33rd Olympic Games. Of course, the loud music and the cheering hid the silence of this fleet.

It was near the same Seine in 1881 that prolific French inventor Gustave Trouvé fitting his electric engine at the back of punt called Le Teléphone when he decided it would be more practical to detach the motor and take it home each night to tinker in his nearby workshop apartment. It was the invention of the outboard motor. The man who signed “Eureka” would have been very pleased to see these 32 e-boats cruising  one the same waters, near the Pont Royal Bridge which he had tested his pioneer skiff – 143 years later. All of these boats passed several luminous fountains, another Trouvé invention.

Of the 20 retrofits the world watched the Mistinguett, the largest boat in the parade, and the longest and heaviest electric boat ever on the Seine, carried 250 athletes along the river. She is now powered by two Yamaha-Torqeedo Deep Blue100i electric motors and their new Deep Blue Battery 80. Then there were four 250-passenger vessels from the Vedettes de Paris, one of Paris’ most significant tour boat operators, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. With names such as Trocadero, Etoile, Iéna, each has been retrofitted with two 10 kW motors powered by 11 tonnes of two 330 kwH lithium-fer-phosphate batteries, prepared by Actemium Marine (ex-Barillac Marine) of Concarneau. Their hulls were made more efficient at the Vanpraet Shipyard at  Villeneuve-la-Garenne and Ship-ST. They were joined by the brand new electric Montparnasse, with “100% Electrique” painted on its sides.

Then for the Bateaux-Mouches Company the 200ft (60m) Hirondelle. Then, sponsored by Total Energies, the Vedettes du Pont Neuf company’s 50-passenger Rocca II, built in 1962 and retrofitted with twin 55kW e-motors and two batteries of 30,5 kWh.. Then her sister ships: Gavroche, Sisley and Arletty are being retrofitted.  Backed by Europa Horizon 2024, the Vedettes du Pont Neuf are adding a 300 passenger electric.  These were joined by the sixty-year-old retrofitted Le Rhône, having made a lock-by-lock 700km cruise from the Côte d’Or Region. Then the barge Rive Gauche and the 11m 1936 Swedish CG Petterson timber cabin cruiser Farö, both retrofitted by Naviwatt.  Then among the ten newly-built boats chosen by the Paris JO 2024 Mobility Committee  FinX’s  a 12 metre boat, Imagine for the Olympic Parade. With its hull made from bio-sourced materials, it is powered by the company’s unique biomemetic motor inspired directly by dolphin swimming and the movements of their tail fins. The there was Green River Cruises solar-powered pontoon e-boat. Also among the fleet, two hydrogen powered 150-passenger NepRiver waterbuses, equipped with the RexH2 autonomy extender, then solar-electric Hyke, linked to the Eker Group in Fredrikstad, and Holland Shipyard’s autonomous electric ferry built using computer 3D-created components.

At the end of the parade, the silver-winged phantom horse and rider which, ridden by a female jockey (Morgane Suquart) “galloped” up the River Seine, impressing the entire world. This was powered by a 130 kW BellMarine electric engine powered by 18 batteries. Top speed 23 knots (43 kph) but Sequana (the ancient name for the Seine) had to be “reined in” to comply with the timing of the ceremony. Given the television coverage, this vessel was the most famous single-seat e-boat in the world…even if for only ten minutes!

Behind this pioneer fleet, financed to the tune of €11 million by both France’s Environmental and Energy Management Agency (ADEME, and the Greater Paris Regional Authority  PAMI (Modernization and Innovation Assistance Plan), the River Seine has a much more ambitious long-term strategy: Haropa Port Project is bringing together the ports of Le Havre, Rouen and Pariswith VNF (France Waterways) to see the Seine’s entire fleet of passenger boats (150+) electric by 2037. 

This follows the initiative taken by Amsterdam where by 2025, the Dutch city’s EPZ will impose a total ban on fossil-fuel boats for its fleet of 10,000 motorboats, including 7,000 pleasure craft around its 60 miles of canals. Only 100% green and hybrid vessels will be able to be registered. Oslo, similarly, is on its way to eliminating ICE engines by 2030.

The PolyBoatGlobal Challenge competition is proud to announce that all these e-boats in the Olympic Games Inaugural Cruise can count their historic journey up the Seine as one in the logbooks for our competition, to which they can accumulate a variety of other cruises during the next eight months. To join our growing fleet of competitors, please contact us by visiting polybotglobal.com, or by text on 0033 06 41427322, or by post: PolyBoatGlobal Challenge 2024-2025, 15 Chemin de Peybotte, 33360 Lignan de Bordeaux, France.

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