Family Kayaking Tour: Discovering Venice

Discover Venice from the Water on a Family Kayaking Tour

This family kayaking experience in Venice is designed for groups of up to four people, priced at $347.28 per group, making it a cost-effective way for families to explore the city’s waterways. With a duration of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, it offers a sporty and cultural outing suitable for kids aged 5 to 17, whether they are experienced paddlers or beginners. The tour features a mobile ticket, and the meeting point is conveniently near public transportation at Fondamente Nove.

Led by Nicoló and Aleksandra, a young Venetian couple and members of a prominent rowing club, this tour provides a local, sports-oriented, and cultural perspective of Venice. The guides share their passion for water sports and Venetian traditions, ensuring a lively and educational experience. Since the tour is private for your group, it offers a personalized touch, making it ideal for families or small groups wanting an active adventure on Venice’s canals.

Key Points

• Cost-effective family activity designed for groups up to four people
• Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes of kayaking, including stops
• Visit to the historic Venetian rowing club, Societa Canottiere Francesco Querini
• Includes paddling instructions and all necessary gear—kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and water sprays
• Photos service included to capture your adventure
• Physical fitness required, suitable for those with moderate paddling skills and good health

Starting Point at Fondamente Nove in Venice

The tour departs from Fondamente Nove, 6576, Venice, a well-known and accessible location close to public transportation. The meeting is straightforward, and the activity ends back at the same point, making logistics easy for families and groups. Travel time from central Venice is minimal, and the area offers a scenic backdrop for an aquatic adventure.

The tour’s mobile ticket allows for a smooth check-in process, and the guides are available to clarify any questions upon arrival. It’s important to arrive in suitable physical condition, as paddling involves some exertion, wave encounters, and boat traffic. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women after the third month or those with serious disabilities, but otherwise, most active families will find this a manageable and rewarding experience.

Exploring the Venetian Rowing Club: Societa Canottiere Francesco Querini

The initial stop at the Venetian rowing club offers a chance to step into the city’s sporting history. This club is not just a sports facility but a cultural landmark, helping visitors connect to Venice’s centuries-old rowing traditions. The admission ticket included allows families to explore the venue for about 15 minutes.

Here, guides share insights into Venice’s rowing history and the significance of this historically important site. Participating in activities at this club also supports its preservation, giving visitors a sense of contributing to local heritage. The visit highlights the blending of sport, tradition, and community life that continues in Venice today.

Paddling Instructions and Safety Details

Following the historic site visit, 15 minutes of paddling instructions are provided, ensuring everyone feels confident before heading into the canals. These instructions include how to handle the double kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, with an emphasis on safety and control.

The guides are experienced, and the small group size allows personalized attention. During the paddling segment, you’ll encounter waves about 30-40cm high and navigate through authentic Venetian canals and Medieval Arsenal. The guides explain how to manage these conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Participants must have moderate physical fitness, and the activity involves sport-like exertion, so warm-up and preparation are recommended.

All Equipment and Photos Included

The kayaking gear, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and water sprays, is provided at no extra cost. The photos service is a thoughtful addition, capturing moments of your family or group during the paddle. Guests should leave their phones or cameras in lockers during paddling for safety, but can opt to film with attached cameras or Go Pros.

This comprehensive equipment setup allows families to focus on paddling and enjoying Venice’s scenery without worrying about logistics or safety gear. The water sprays help keep participants comfortable, and the kayaks are suitable for both children and adults, with spot decisions made by guides about who shares double kayaks in mixed groups.

Physical Requirements and Safety Precautions

Since paddling is a sport activity, participants should be in good physical condition and able to handle the physical exertion involved. The activity requires attention, strength, and positive mental focus, especially when navigating waves and boat traffic. The guides emphasize that individuals should not have balance issues, sea sickness, or panic attacks.

People with serious disabilities or pregnant women after the third month are advised not to participate. The tour also includes safety protocols, such as no phone or camera use during paddling, to prevent accidents. Rescheduling or cancellations may occur due to bad weather, dangerous conditions, or participant non-compliance.

The Cultural Significance of the Canal Routes

While paddling through authentic Venetian canals, families get a culturally rich view of Venice’s living infrastructure. The guide shares insights into the city’s history, local life, and traditional water sports. The route often passes near Medieval Arsenal and other historic landmarks, giving a unique perspective that differs from typical walking tours.

This activity offers a blend of sport, history, and local culture, making it more than just a kayak ride. It’s an engaging way to see Venice from the water, with a knowledgeable guide providing context and stories along the way.

Final Stop Back at the Meeting Point

The tour returns to the initial meeting point at Fondamente Nove, enabling families to plan their next activity easily. Since the tour is private, groups enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized interaction with the guides. The entire experience is designed to be family-friendly but sporty enough to appeal to active participants.

Booking, Cancellation, and Weather Policies

This tour is booked on average 52 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The non-refundable policy means cancellations are only accepted if the weather is unsuitable—such as strong winds, rain, or lightning—or if participants arrive intoxicated or do not meet the physical requirements.

In case of bad weather, a rescheduling will be offered or a full refund issued. The guides reserve the right to cancel or reschedule due to internal club matters or operational reasons. Since paddling involves physical effort, it’s recommended to rest beforehand, avoid alcohol, and arrive prepared for a sports activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This family kayaking tour suits those eager for a hands-on, active exploration of Venice. It is ideal for families with children who are comfortable in water and in good physical shape. The guides’ knowledgeable approach makes it suitable for those interested in local traditions and Venice’s water sports history.

However, it may not be suitable for pregnant women after the third month or individuals with serious disabilities. The activity involves moderate exertion and encounters with waves and boat traffic, so participants need a moderate level of fitness.

The Sum Up: An Active and Cultural Family Adventure in Venice

The Family Kayaking Tour offers a unique way to see Venice from its canals and waters, combining sport, history, and local culture in one experience. Led by local water sports enthusiasts, the guides bring personalized knowledge and a friendly approach, making it especially appealing to active families seeking an interactive experience.

While it requires moderate physical fitness and participation in a sporty activity, the inclusion of historic site visits and photos enriches the overall journey. Families who enjoy outdoor activities, learning about Venetian water traditions, and paddling through authentic canals will find this tour both entertaining and meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children between 5 and 17 years old are welcome, but they must share double kayaks with parents or instructors. The activity is designed to be family-friendly with appropriate safety instructions.

What should I wear for the kayaking tour?
Participants should wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for water activities. It’s recommended to bring clothes that can get wet and be prepared for some physical exertion.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves moderate physical effort, suitable for those with average fitness levels. It includes paddling through waves and handling boat traffic, requiring strength, concentration, and positive focus.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
Yes, pregnant women after the third month are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of paddling and safety considerations.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If bad weather like strong winds, lightning, or heavy rain occurs, the tour may be canceled. Guests will be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

Are photos taken during the tour?
Yes, a photos service is included, capturing moments during paddling. Participants should leave phones and cameras in lockers during paddling but can film with attached devices.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is around 1 hour and 40 minutes, including stops and paddling instructions.

Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins and ends at Fondamente Nove in Venice, providing easy access for families staying nearby.

Can I cancel or reschedule if needed?
The tour is non-refundable but can be rescheduled in case of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

What makes this tour different from other Venice water activities?
This tour combines active kayaking with cultural insights about Venice’s rowing traditions, led by local experts in a private setting, offering an engaging alternative to typical sightseeing tours.