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Experience Venice from the water on a private 4-hour tour aboard a classic 1965 Bragozzo, exploring iconic sights, islands, and local culture—all for up to 8 guests.
This private 4-hour boat tour in Venice offers an intimate way to see the city and its lagoon. Priced at $540.41 per group, it accommodates up to 8 guests, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience. The tour is led aboard a classic 1965 Bragozzo, a traditional Venetian vessel, with a dedicated captain and expert guide, Captain Mike, ensuring a knowledgeable and friendly narration of the sights.
What sets this tour apart is its customizable itinerary, allowing flexibility to include swimming, local snacks, and visits to various islands. It departs from Fondamente Nove and spends four hours exploring the main city highlights, the famous islands, and some lesser-known spots in the Venetian lagoon. The experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, personalized, and authentic Venetian water adventure.
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This tour begins at Fondamente Nove, 6588, Venezia, a central point that’s easy to reach via public transportation. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring a private and intimate atmosphere. The vessel is a classic 1965 Bragozzo, originally built on Burano, which adds an authentic Venetian touch to the journey.
The private nature of this tour means you won’t share the boat with strangers, allowing your group to set the pace and tailor the stops to your interests. The captain and guide, Captain Mike, bring local knowledge and a friendly attitude, making the experience both educational and engaging.
One of the highlights involves sailing past San Marco Square, where you’ll get a stunning view of landmarks like the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Campanile di San Marco. The captain provides insights into the history and significance of these sites while giving you a unique water-level perspective.
The tour also includes a cruise by San Giorgio Maggiore, offering a different view of Venice’s skyline, and a chance to see the sculpture Building Bridges—a feature visible only from the water. The passage through the lagoon showcases Venice’s maritime history and its relationship with the surrounding islands.
A notable stop is the island historically cultivated for wine by the Romans, along with the fortress that protected the city in centuries past. These sites offer a glimpse into Venice’s ancient defenses and agricultural roots, giving visitors an idea of how the city’s strategic position has shaped its history.
The quarantine island used for sailors returning from foreign lands is also part of the route, adding a historical perspective on Venice’s role as a trading hub and its efforts to protect itself during past pandemics.
Two of the most famous stops are Isola di Burano and the glassmaking island. Burano, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is recognizable for its colorful houses and traditional lace-making craft. The 20-minute stop allows guests to explore the vibrant streets, take photos, and appreciate the island’s artistic heritage.
The glassmaking island features numerous glass studios that showcase Venetian glass craftsmanship. Visitors can observe artisans at work, browse local glass products, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this renowned artisan community.
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Traveling on a classic 1965 boat built on Burano adds authenticity and charm to the experience. The vessel’s vintage design complements Venice’s timeless appeal, making the journey visually memorable.
Throughout the tour, snacks, soda, and bottled water are provided, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without concern for refreshments. The option to include swimming enhances the experience, especially for families with children, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to enjoy the lagoon’s natural beauty.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. Guests with mobility issues should contact the provider beforehand, since getting on and off the boat may involve larger steps or navigating gaps depending on water levels. The guides aim to make boarding as easy as possible, but some physical effort may occasionally be required.
The tour operates most days with confirmation at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, the tour can be rescheduled or fully refunded, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind.
This tour’s flexibility allows the guide to tailor stops according to your interests. Whether you wish to spend more time exploring Burano’s colorful streets, visit an active monastery, or include swimming in the lagoon, the captain and guide can adapt the outing to suit your preferences.
This personalized approach makes it ideal for small groups seeking a less scripted, more immersive experience of Venice and its islands.
The combination of a vintage boat, expert guiding, and customizable stops creates a unique way to experience Venice beyond the usual walking tours. The private boat offers an up-close view of the city’s architecture, islands, and lagoon life, which are often hidden from land-based tours.
The inclusion of local snacks and opportunities for swimming further enrich the experience, making it suitable for families, couples, and small groups who appreciate personalized, relaxed exploration.
This private Venetian boat tour is perfect for visitors who value authenticity and intimacy. It suits those interested in history, art, and local craftsmanship like glassmaking and lace. It’s also well-suited for families with children or small groups looking to enjoy a flexible, personalized adventure on Venice’s waters.
Those who prefer a structured group tour might find this too flexible, but for those seeking an exclusive, immersive experience, this tour delivers a special perspective on Venice’s maritime charm.
The Exclusive Venice Experience aboard a classic Bragozzo stands out as a relaxed, customizable, and authentic way to explore Venice and its lagoon. The private boat and expert guide ensure a personalized narration of the city’s sights, islands, and history, all while enjoying the comfort of snacks and the option to swim.
While the cost is higher than some group tours, the intimate setting and flexibility make it a worthwhile choice for small groups and families seeking a tailored Venetian adventure. Anyone eager to see Venice from the water with local charm and expert guidance will find this tour both memorable and enriching.
“It was an amazing day, we saw and learned a lot about the lagoon and nature around Venice. Very knowledgeable guide and captain. Even went swimming…”
What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation aboard a 1965 Bragozzo, snacks, soda, and bottled water are included. Meals are not part of the package.
How many people can join this tour?
The tour allows up to 8 guests, ensuring a private and exclusive experience.
Where does the tour start?
It departs from Fondamente Nove, 6588, Venezia, a central Venice location accessible by public transit.
Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and the guide can tailor stops such as swimming, island visits, or spending more time at specific sites.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can include activities like swimming, making it suitable for children, especially when tailored accordingly.
What attractions will I see during the tour?
Highlights include San Marco Square, Doge’s Palace, Bridge of Sighs, Murano, Burano, and the quarantine island.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours long, providing ample time to explore multiple sights without feeling rushed.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling or refunds are offered in case of bad weather.
Is there any physical difficulty involved?
Guests with mobility issues should request assistance beforehand, as getting on and off the boat can involve steps or gaps depending on water levels.
What makes this tour different from other Venice water tours?
Its private setting, vintage vessel, and customizable itinerary focus on providing a personalized, immersive experience not found on larger, shared tours.