Venice Lagoon Boat Tour: Lunch or Dinner with Aperitif

Climb aboard for an amazing sailing experience in Venice’s beautiful lagoon! Enjoy a tasty meal of fresh fish cooked onboard while you take in the stunning scenery. Our skilled captain will teach you the basics of sailing as you discover hidden gems and observe local wildlife.

You can choose between a 4-hour cruise with lunch and drinks or a 2-hour sunset trip with drinks followed by a light dinner near the charming island of Burano.

Join our enthusiastic guide, Ernesto, on his sleek 12-meter sailboat as you uncover all the lagoon’s hidden treasures (he speaks English and Italian).

Book your sailing trip now and start an unforgettable adventure in the magic of the Venetian lagoon.

At 11:00 AM, we’ll depart from Marina di Sant’Elena. During the first half-hour of sailing, Ernesto will explain the basics of sailing and ensure everyone’s safety onboard. You’ll participate in a group experience, taking turns at the helm with your fellow travelers and learning to harness the wind through brief practical and explanatory sessions, if desired.

We’ll sail away from the busiest tourist routes toward the islands of Poveglia (known as the haunted deserted island) and Pellestrina (formerly a fisherman’s island), where you might have the chance to meet a local fisherman! Later, while our captain prepares a delicious lunch, you can enjoy a refreshing swim near one of the deserted islands!

In the second part of the journey, you’ll sail while observing the islands of San Clemente and San Servolo. Depending on the wind, we’ll make a more “touristy” but still memorable passage towards the San Marco Basin and the islands of San Giorgio or Burano.

At 3:00 PM, we’ll return to Marina di Sant’Elena.

Fish and fruit-based lunch

Antipasti

Spaghetti with local clams and mussels

Marinated fish

Seasonal fruits

Prosecco, beer, non-alcoholic beverages

Upon request, meat, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus are available.

Departure from Marina di Sant’Elena:

• At 6:00 PM – from May to June and from August to October;
• At 7:00 PM – in July and August.

Accompanied by Ernesto, you’ll sail towards the salt marshes near the island of Burano to enjoy a picturesque sunset. You’ll navigate through an environment where the flora and fauna of the lagoon are still preserved and truly fascinating.

You’ll spend 2 hours on the boat amidst this fantastic lagoon landscape. During the first 30 minutes, Ernesto will explain the basics of sailing and teach the necessary rules for onboard safety.

While sailing, if you wish, you can try your hand and learn to harness the wind through brief practical explanations and demonstrations. Once we arrive at Burano, we’ll make a stop in the canal in front of this marvelous island. In the summer, a refreshing swim might be tempting before enjoying seafood antipasti and admiring the unique sunset over the lagoon.

Return to Sant’Elena:

• At 8:00 PM – from May to June and from August to October;
• At 9:00 PM – in July and August.

Venetian aperitif and light dinner

Typical Venetian antipasti “cicchetti”

Marinated fish or sardines or shrimp, mussels, clams

Prosecco, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, coffee

Upon request, meat, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus are available.

Poveglia

Poveglia is an island near Venice with a grim history. It was once a quarantine site where the sick were isolated to prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, it served as a mental asylum, where it’s said that some residents were driven mad by the spirits haunting the area.

Pellestrina

Pellestrina is situated between the Lido of Venice and the Lido of Chioggia. Known for its sandy beaches, sturdy dikes built to withstand storms, and a history rich in ancient fishing traditions, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Venice. Its charming narrow streets, lined with picturesque fishermen’s houses, create a unique and peaceful atmosphere.

San Giorgio Island and Saint Mark’s Basin

Sailing through the San Marco Basin by sailboat provides a magical experience. You’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Venice, one of the world’s most iconic cities. 

From the water, Venice’s beauty and elegance are fully appreciated. Across from St. Mark’s Square lies the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, featuring the impressive basilica designed by Andrea Palladio. It’s a sight to behold during your sailboat adventure.

As you navigate the shimmering waters, you’ll pass by historic landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace and the iconic Rialto Bridge, each offering a glimpse into Venice’s rich history and architectural grandeur. The gentle breeze carries the scent of the sea, while the sound of lapping waves provides a soothing soundtrack to your journey.

Sailing through the San Marco Basin offers a unique perspective of Venice, allowing you to see the city from a different angle and appreciate its timeless beauty in a whole new light. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-time visitor, this unforgettable experience promises to be the highlight of your Venetian adventure.

San Clemente

San Clemente is an island located in the center of the Venetian Lagoon, easily visible from iconic spots like St. Mark’s Square, Giudecca, or the Lido. It’s renowned for its former monastery, now transformed into a luxury hotel.

Once a sanctuary for Crusaders en route to the Holy Land, the island housed a monastery and a church dedicated to Saint Clement of Rome, built in the 12th century. These structures stood as testaments to the monastic life and spirituality that permeated the island for centuries.

Today, the former monastery has been converted into the luxurious San Clemente Palace Kempinski Hotel. Nevertheless, traces of its religious past remain intact, with the historic church and remnants of the monastery still accessible to visitors.

Burano

Burano is renowned for its vibrant, colorful fishermen’s houses and its glassmaking tradition. Sailing around the island allows you to admire its charming facades painted in a myriad of hues, creating a captivating panorama. The leaning bell tower of the church of San Martino adds to the island’s charm. Passing by Burano on a boat immerses you in its fascinating atmosphere, offering glimpses of daily life as local fishermen go about their work and residents tend to their homes. As you glide through the tranquil canals, you’ll witness the picturesque scenery and vibrant colors that define this enchanting island. Though you may only observe from afar, the beauty and charm of Burano are sure to leave a lasting impression.