Venice Beginner’s Kayak Tour in the Medieval Arsenal

Venice Beginner’s Kayak Tour in the Medieval Arsenal

This kayak experience in Venice costs $67.97 per person and lasts around one hour, making it an accessible and engaging option for first-time paddlers. The tour begins at RSCQ and ends back at the same meeting point, offering a compact but comprehensive introduction to kayaking in the historic Venetian waters.

Led by Nicoló and Aleksandra, a young couple actively involved in Venice’s rowing scene, the tour combines an individual lesson, training on water, and a visit to the Medieval Arsenal and Venetian rowing club. This tour is ideal for those new to kayaking who want to gain confidence, learn basic techniques, and see Venice from a fresh angle—on its lagoons and historic waterways. A key highlight is that part of the fee supports the restoration and maintenance of the rowing club, adding a meaningful touch to the experience.

While the focus is on beginners, participants should be in suitable physical condition, and this activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg). The group is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and a relaxed environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beginners welcome: Individual lessons teach basic paddling techniques for first-time kayakers.
• Historic highlights: Visit the Medieval Arsenal and Venetian rowing club to explore Venice’s cultural and sporting history.
• All equipment included: Kayak, paddle, lifejacket, and a service photo are provided for free.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve now and pay later.
• Guided by water sports experts: The guides are experienced, speaking multiple languages including English, Italian, French, and Spanish.
• Small group setting: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Discover Venice from a New Perspective in the Medieval Arsenal

This kayak tour in Venice offers a chance to see the city’s historic district, Castello, from the water, focusing on a less touristy and more authentic side of the city. You start with a one-on-one instruction aimed at beginners, where guides Nicoló and Aleksandra show you the basic paddling techniques needed to feel confident on the water. After mastering the basics, you’ll paddle out onto the Arsenal and Lagoon canals.

The training session on water allows you to practice your new skills in a safe environment. The guides tailor the experience based on your individual level, and in case of bad weather or schedule conflicts, the activity can be rescheduled or canceled without issue. This flexibility ensures a smooth experience, even if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Exploring the Medieval Arsenal and Venetian Rowing Club

The Medieval Arsenal, a famous Venetian site, serves as the backdrop for this tour. This historic area reflects Venice’s shipbuilding legacy and is seldom seen by travelers on foot. Your guides will take you to the Venetian rowing club, a place rich with tradition and history.

Visiting the rowing club offers insight into Venice’s water sports culture and the ongoing effort to maintain and restore this important site. Part of your tour fee helps support the club’s preservation, making this activity not just fun but also meaningful. The club’s exterior and surroundings provide a picturesque setting for photos and a deeper appreciation of Venice’s maritime past.

What to Expect During the One-Hour Kayaking Session

The tour includes a brief lesson at the club where guides introduce the techniques for paddling and safety before heading onto the water. Once on the lagoon, paddlers experience a relaxing yet active activity. The guides will navigate the group through calm waters, with waves typically reaching 30-40 cm, and boat traffic that adds a lively touch.

Participants should be prepared for some physical exertion and should meet basic paddling requirements. The activity is suitable for those who are less than 120 kg (men) or 100 kg (women) and can comfortably enter a kayak cabin measuring 80 cm long and 40 cm wide. Children can participate if in a double kayak with a parent or instructor, making it a family-friendly activity.

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Equipment and Guides: What’s Included and How It Works

Your instructor and guide lead the experience, ensuring safety and instruction throughout. You receive a kayak, paddle, and lifejacket, all included in the price. Also, a free professional photo captures your moment on the water, adding a memorable keepsake without extra cost.

The tour emphasizes personalized guidance, with guides speaking English, Italian, French, and Spanish. They will contact you beforehand to determine your paddling experience level, and depending on your skills, may transfer you to a group with similar experience.

Meeting Point and Accessibility Details

The activity begins at RSCQ and ends there as well, making logistics straightforward. It’s designed for a small group of six, providing space for individual attention. Participants should arrive prepared with appropriate clothing, shoes, hats, and sunglasses, as these are not included.

For safety, each paddler must be in good physical condition, and the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people over 220 lbs, children under 12, or those over 95 years old. The guides reserve the right to cancel participation if safety requirements are not met.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers’ plans. You can reserve your spot now without payment and settle later, providing peace of mind in case of schedule changes.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Venice

This kayak experience capitalizes on Venice’s lesser-known waterways and the Medieval Arsenal, a site away from the crowded tourist areas. The personalized instruction for beginners makes it accessible for those with little or no paddling experience.

The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere where you can learn and enjoy without feeling rushed or crowded. Plus, the contribution to the preservation of Venice’s rowing heritage adds value to the activity, making it more than just a fun paddle.

While the duration is only one hour, this tour offers a rich introduction to Venice’s water culture and a chance to see the city from a unique vantage point. It may not suit those with limited mobility or significant physical limitations but provides an authentic water-based experience for most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is specifically designed for first-time kayakers, with an individual lesson to teach you the basics.

What equipment will I receive?
You get a kayak, paddle, lifejacket, and a free professional photo.

Can children participate?
Children over 12 can join if in a double kayak with an adult or instructor.

What should I wear?
Participants need to bring their own clothes, shoes, hats, and sunglasses, as these are not included.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience takes about one hour, including instruction and paddling.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
Participants should weigh less than 120 kg (men) or 100 kg (women).

Is the activity affected by weather?
Yes, bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellation, with guides contacting participants accordingly.

Where is the meeting point?
The activity begins and ends at RSCQ.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Venice Beginner’s Kayak Tour in the Medieval Arsenal offers a well-rounded, beginner-friendly introduction to Venice’s waters, combining history, sport, and scenic views in a compact, affordable package. Whether you’re seeking your first kayaking experience or want a different perspective on Venice, this tour delivers an engaging and meaningful outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby