Vidal Venice Tours offers intimate boat tours led by a local captain, designed to show Venice beyond the crowds. With small groups, authentic routes, and a relaxed atmosphere, each experience blends breath-taking lagoon views, local stories, and unforgettable moments on the water.
Step aboard my Patana boat (up to 10 guests) and experience Venice from a truly local perspective, with a refreshing aperitif in hand and stunning views all around you.During this 1.5-hour relaxed boat tour, I’ll be your local captain and guide, taking you beyond the tourist routes through hidden canals and across the breath-taking outer lagoon. Along the way, I’ll share stories, history, and insights about Venice, its lagoon, and its islands.From the moment we set off, you’ll enjoy Prosecco, beers, and chips/crisps served on board, creating the perfect atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the ride.Highlights of the route include San Marco Basin, Giudecca, San Giorgio, San Pietro, and the southern Venetian Lagoon—offering iconic panoramas and fantastic photo opportunities.This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends looking to relax, learn, and see Venice from a unique point of view. At the end of the experience, we’ll return to the original departure point.
You will step aboard my boat for an intimate experience, leaving Venice behind as we cross the quiet waters of the southern lagoon toward its most mysterious destination: Poveglia.Known for its dark and fascinating past, Poveglia was used as a quarantine island during the Black Plague in the 15th century, before becoming an insane asylum between the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the island is completely abandoned, slowly reclaimed by nature and surrounded by an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Venice.Once we arrive, you will have around one hour to explore the island on foot at your own pace. Wander along overgrown paths, step inside crumbling buildings, and discover hidden corners where time seems to have stopped. With no crowds and no modern development, the silence of Poveglia amplifies its haunting legends and makes the experience deeply immersive.After your exploration, we will regroup and cruise back through the lagoon. This is one of the most forbidden and intriguing places in Venice—a rare opportunity to experience a side of the lagoon that few travellers ever see.
As your skipper and local guide, I’ll take you beyond the crowds to discover the most evocative islands of the Northern Venetian Lagoon, at a relaxed pace and from an authentic, local perspective.We’ll begin in Murano, where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute visit inside a traditional glass factory, watching master artisans shape molten glass using centuries-old techniques. Afterward, you’ll admire Murano’s canals and workshops from the boat as we cruise along the island.Next, we head to Burano, famous for its delicate lace and iconic rainbow-colored houses. You’ll have 45–60 minutes of free time to wander its charming streets, take photos, browse small shops, or simply soak in the vibrant island atmosphere.Our final stop is Torcello, the peaceful birthplace of Venetian civilization. Here, 30 minutes is just enough to walk among ancient monuments, quiet canals, and green paths, experiencing the island’s timeless silence and deep historical soul.After Torcello, I’ll cruise you comfortably back to Venice.This experience is a perfect balance of culture, history, and slow lagoon cruising—an intimate journey through islands where Venice was born and still feels wonderfully untouched.
Step aboard my Patana boat and enjoy an authentic and private Venetian aperitivo on the lagoon, with 10 seats available for a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. As we cruise through hidden canals and quiet waters off the beaten path, you’ll sip Prosecco or beer and enjoy light snacks while taking in stunning views of Venice and its magical islands.During this 1.5-hour experience, you’ll admire Venice’s most iconic panoramas—from San Marco and San Giorgio to Giudecca, Castello, and the southern lagoon—all from a unique, water-level perspective. The tour ends right where it begins, leaving you with unforgettable views and a true taste of Venetian life. Perfect for couples, families, friends, and solo travellers alike. 🍾🛥️
Escape the crowds and explore a quieter, more atmospheric side of Venice on this intimate Southern lagoon boat tour.Stop at a private island that was once a warehouse for construction materials and is now home to the luxurious JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa. Visit its panoramic rooftop bar, enjoy a drink, and take in stunning views over the lagoon and Venice.Continue to Poveglia Island, one of the lagoon’s most intriguing islands. Formerly a quarantine station and hospital, Poveglia is steeped in dark history. You’ll have about 30 minutes of free time to explore the island on foot, among abandoned buildings and wild nature.Cruise past Malamocco, a peaceful and authentic village on Lido di Venezia, before passing the iconic Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, famous as the home of the Venice Film Festival.Before returning, relax as we cruise through the quiet canals of the Lido, offering a final, serene perspective of lagoon life before heading back to Venice.
Discover the serene beauty of Venice from the water with a unique swimming experience. This authentic boat tour takes you beyond the crowded canals into the tranquil heart of the lagoon and nearby sea. Over approximately 2 hours, explore hidden swimming and snorkeling spots known primarily to locals, where clean, calm waters invite you to float and relax. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and vibrant marine life as you immerse yourself in the authentic Venetian lifestyle, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.- Enjoy a 2-hour authentic boat tour in the Venetian lagoon- Swim and snorkel in hidden spots known only to locals- Relax in clean, calm waters away from the crowds- Ideal for travellers seeking a unique and refreshing experience
Explore travel itineraries created by Vidal Venice Tours to inspire your next adventure.
