Row as a Gondolier with Aperitif | Private

Become Venetian for a day!

There are many ways to see Venice, but only one lets you feel it from the inside out: standing at the helm of a traditional boat, gently gliding through its labyrinth of canals as the city unfolds before you. This private, hands-on experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live Venice not as a tourist, but as a true Venetian—even if just for an hour and a half.

Become a Gondolier for a Day

Your adventure begins when you meet your friendly, English-speaking licensed guide, a proud Venetian passionate about sharing their heritage. After a brief but fascinating introduction to the history and craft of Venetian rowing, you’ll receive a practical lesson on the basic techniques: where to stand, how to hold the oar, how to steer, and how to move with the graceful rhythm that gondoliers have mastered over generations.

This isn’t a performance—it’s the real thing. You’ll climb aboard a batelina, a traditional flat-bottomed rowing boat once used for everyday transport across the city’s canals. Easier to handle than the long gondola, the batelina is perfect for learning, while still offering an authentic and elegant ride.

Under the expert guidance of your instructor, you’ll navigate the waterways of Venice, learning how to row, turn, and even accelerate. As you pass beneath stone arch bridges and alongside colorful palazzi, you’ll get a sense of how intimately tied Venice is to its aquatic landscape. This is not the Venice of crowded tourist routes—this is the Venice locals know and love.

An Aperitivo to Celebrate

After your rowing adventure, it’s time to unwind the Venetian way—with a well-deserved aperitivo. Find a quiet spot along the canal and toast your experience with a crisp glass of prosecco or a classic Venetian spritz, accompanied by traditional cicchetti, the beloved local small plates. Think of it as the Venetian version of tapas—simple, savory, and absolutely delicious.

As the sun begins to dip over the lagoon and the city takes on its golden hour glow, you’ll have time to reflect on your experience, sip your drink, and maybe even share a laugh about your first (or second!) attempt at rowing like a pro.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to Venice with fresh eyes, this experience offers something truly special: a connection. To the place. To the people. To a tradition as timeless as the city itself.

Don’t just visit Venice—become a part of it.