Classic Venetian Boat Tour to Explore the Lagoon and Islands

Explore Venice from the Water with a Private Boat Tour

The Classic Venetian Boat Tour offers an intimate way to experience Venice and its surrounding islands. Priced at $782.51 per group, this 7-hour private excursion is ideal for small groups of up to 8 people. Led by Captain Mike aboard a classic 1965 Bragozzo, the tour showcases the lagoon’s highlights with the flexibility to customize the itinerary. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized Venetian adventure.

Unlike large group excursions, this private experience ensures exclusive access to the boat, with no sharing and plenty of time to explore each destination. The tour’s focus on comfort, flexibility, and local insights makes it a standout choice for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Venice’s lagoon and islands.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 8 guests with customizable itinerary
• 7 hours of sailing aboard a classic 1965 Bragozzo with a dedicated captain
• Visit iconic locations like San Marco, Murano, Burano, and Torcello
• Opportunities to swim, shop, eat, and enjoy local snacks and beverages
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance
• Tour departs and ends at Fondamente Nove in Venice

The Unique Charm of the Classic 1965 Bragozzo Boat

The Bragozzo, built in 1965 and originating from Burano, provides an authentic and picturesque setting for the tour. Its classic design adds a nostalgic touch, making the sailing experience both scenic and comfortable. The boat is exclusively for your group, allowing for a relaxed pace and personalized attention from Captain Mike.

The boat’s vintage charm enhances the overall experience, as you glide smoothly across the lagoon, soaking in views of Venice from the water. The private transportation ensures a peaceful journey, free from crowds and with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy the scenery.

Navigating Venice’s Historic Waterways and Pass Bys

The tour begins at Fondamente Nove, where the boat departs for a scenic cruise around Venice’s historic waterways. As the boat sails, it passes by notable landmarks such as San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Campanile di San Marco. These sights are seen from the water, offering a different perspective from the busy streets.

The route also includes a pass by the Arsenale di Venezia, the shipbuilding site of the Venetian Republic, where the sculpture Building Bridges is visible only from a boat. This gives a glimpse into Venice’s maritime history, adding depth to the visual journey.

Visiting the Lagoon’s Key Islands

The tour’s highlights include visits to several of Venice’s most famous islands, each offering unique sights and experiences:

Isola delle Vignole

The Vignole Island is known for its historical cultivation of Roman wine and a fortress that once protected Venice. While here, guests can enjoy the scenery and learn about its past. The stop lasts about 20 minutes and is free of charge.

Isola del Lazzaretto Nuovo

Passing by this island, used as a quarantine station for sailors returning from abroad, offers insight into Venice’s historical health precautions. Visitors do not disembark here, but the pass-by adds context to Venice’s maritime history.

Isola Sant’Erasmo

This vegetable island is famous for its farming activities supplying Venice with fresh produce. While just passing by, the scenic views of the lush landscape are a highlight.

San Francesco del Deserto

If time permits, the tour may include a 30-minute visit to this island with an active monastery built in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. The island remains a serene spot with an admission free area, perfect for quiet reflection.

Burano and Murano: The Colorful and Artistic Islands

The tour dedicates significant time to Burano and Murano, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Burano is famous for its colorfully painted houses and traditional lace-making. Visitors have about 45 minutes to explore, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy local food or gelato.

• Murano is renowned for Venetian glassmaking. The visit includes an opportunity to see glass studios and shop for handcrafted glassware. Again, 45 minutes are allocated for admiring the craftsmanship and browsing.

Both islands provide a vibrant photo backdrop and a chance to experience Venice’s artisanal traditions.

Food, Drinks, and Customization Options

Throughout the tour, travelers enjoy included snacks, soda, and bottled water, making the day comfortable and refreshing. The flexibility of the tour allows guests to tailor the experience—whether that means stopping to swim in the lagoon or sampling local cuisine at one of the islands’ restaurants.

The captain’s expertise guides the timing and activities, ensuring the day suits your interests. The tour does not include meals, but plenty of opportunities exist at the stops to indulge in local food or beverages.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour begins and ends at Fondamente Nove, conveniently located near public transportation in Venice. With a maximum group size of 8, the experience offers intimacy and personal attention. Travelers with mobility issues should contact the provider first, as getting on and off the boat may involve steps or gaps due to water levels.

Service animals are allowed, and the boat’s vintage style adds to the nostalgic atmosphere. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on weather and guest preferences.

How the Tour Stands Out from Other Venice Boat Experiences

This full-day private tour emphasizes personalization and comfort. Unlike crowded group excursions, this boat allows your party to set the pace and choose stops based on your interests. The dedicated captain and exclusively yours boat ensure a relaxed, tailored journey through Venice’s lagoon.

The inclusion of iconic islands like Burano and Murano, combined with the historic pass-bys and the vintage boat, creates an authentic Venetian experience. The 7-hour duration provides ample time to explore and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: A Personalized Venetian Adventure

The Classic Venetian Boat Tour offers a luxurious, flexible, and intimate way to explore Venice’s lagoon and islands. The private setting ensures a tranquil day with plenty of opportunities to swim, shop, and enjoy local flavors. The expert guidance from Captain Mike adds depth and warmth to the experience.

This tour suits small groups seeking a relaxed pace and customizable itinerary. Its vintage boat and pass-by views deliver a nostalgic feel, complementing visits to world-famous islands, and providing a rich perspective on Venice’s maritime heritage. While no meals are included, the stops at local restaurants or shops make it easy to enjoy authentic Venetian cuisine during the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Snacks, soda, bottled water, and private boat transportation aboard a 1965 Bragozzo are included.

How large is the group?
The tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 8 guests.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to tailor stops and activities like swimming or dining.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to Fondamente Nove in Venice.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Guests with mobility challenges should contact the provider first, as getting on and off the boat may involve steps or gaps.

Are there opportunities for shopping?
Yes, stops at Burano and Murano include time to shop for lace and glassware.

What are the main highlights of the islands visited?
Burano’s colorful houses and lace-making, and Murano’s glass studios are the key attractions.

How long are the stops at each island?
Burano and Murano each get about 45 minutes; other stops vary from 20 to 30 minutes or are pass-bys.

Is there a possibility to swim during the tour?
Yes, the flexible schedule allows for swimming if desired.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance; cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This private, flexible, and scenic Venice boat tour offers a memorable way to explore the lagoon’s treasures while enjoying the comfort of a vintage vessel and the guidance of an experienced captain.