Some people choose gondolas, others speedy water taxis but our writer Lee Hubbard chose to kayak his way through the beautiful city of Venice…
For some, their first view of Venice may be from the window of an aeroplane moments before they touch down at the evocatively-named Marco Polo airport. For others, it may be as their speed boat water taxi pulls up to dock at the steps of their hotel, taking care not to get their feet wet as they walk the few paces into their temporary home.
For me, it was something rather less glamorous – the cramped confines of the number 6 bus, under a sky of grey cloud, from the suburb of Mestre (still technically Venice, but across the bridge on the mainland). My second view of Venice, however, was magnificent. And it was from exactly the point of view that Venice should be seen from, namely the water. Despite operating for 10 years, many people (locals included) don’t realise that you can meander through the labyrinth of canals and waterways in a kayak, allowing an unforgettable trip through this most unique of cities.
Having never set foot in Venice before, I couldn’t think of a better way to see the city for the first time. Water is the absolute lifeblood of this city, and seeing it from the water will give you an increased appreciation of how the city works – though you’ll probably still get lost when walking through the streets later on. Although it would be a good few months until they started handing out the golden lions to the winners at the famous film festival, held in September, there were times when I felt like an A-lister as passers-by stopped to take photos of us, and then looked on rather incredulously as we paddled on past them.
If you decide to take a tour, I would highly recommend spending a little extra on the evening tour, for two reasons. Firstly, if you’re lucky you’ll get to see places like St Marks’ Square and the tower of St Georgio across the Guadecca bathed in the golden light of sunset, somehow making this impossibly beautiful city even more radiant. The second reason is that, by the evening, the waterways are considerably quieter, with fewer water taxis, vaporettos, gondolas or cruise boats to run you down or create a wake for you to battle with.
I met Rene (the Danish owner of the company) and our guide Loretta on the island of Certosa, where we were given a safety briefing and kitted out with all the gear we would need. I’ve done a little bit of kayaking and rafting but I’m no expert – thankfully Loretta was an excellent guide, and the kayak was nice and stable as we meandered through the canals, and under world-famous sights like the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.Towards the end of the trip, once she was satisfied that we were competent kayakers, we even went through an incredibly narrow tunnel requiring some contortionist skills, and which tested the limits of how flexible and supple I could be if I didn’t want to hit my head on the roof of the tunnel!
With a gondola currently costing around €80 for a 40-minute ride, the €150 that Venice Kayak charge for the 5-hour sunset trip is easily justified. They operate a multitude of different trips, including one to the beautiful island of Burano. Okay it might not be as relaxing as a gondola (seeing as you have to work a little to power yourself through the city). Your arms may be tired by the end, but you’ll feel like you’ve really earned your spritz or gelato once you’re back on dry land. For a unique experience, in a city you feel like you know before you’ve even set foot there, it sure takes some beating – and perhaps, in the eyes of someone wanting a little more adventure, it’s also far more romantic.
All photos and words by regular contributor Lee Hubbard
18 Comments
Sherry
18 September, 2013 at 9:51 pmWow! I never would’ve thought to do this in Venice. I avoided Venice for many reasons, but now I see a reason to go. I love learning new things from others.
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:51 pmGlad to hear Sherry – Venice may be full of tourists, but you can’t argue with the beauty of the city!
Gabriel
16 September, 2013 at 5:01 pmYea that seems like it would be the best way to do it. Never even thought of that but when I’m there I will definitely opt to Kayak =)
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:49 pmGood to hear Gabriel – a kayak is the way to go!
Scott - Quirky Travel Guy
12 September, 2013 at 3:54 pmI would definitely choose kayak over gondola if I make it to Venice 🙂
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:48 pmI’m sure you’ll make it there one day Scott – just remember to drop them an email beforehand to let them know!
Agness
7 September, 2013 at 2:30 amWow, I am actually surprised by what I’ve read here. I knew you can go through the canals by boat, but kayaking? Wouldn’t think it’s possible to do in Venice. Amazing experience and what a scenery!
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:47 pmThanks Agness – and the best bit is that you can go to some places that the bigger boats can’t reach!
Scott
6 September, 2013 at 10:17 pmLooks very cool!
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:46 pmThanks Scott, it was – and makes me wonder what other cities would be better from a kayak!
Emma
6 September, 2013 at 10:09 pmThis looks like so much fun, love your photos!
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:45 pmThanks Emma!
Lance | Trips By Lance
6 September, 2013 at 6:08 pmWhat an awesome idea. We rode a gondola when in Venice several years ago. If I ever return I would love to consider this instead.
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:44 pmFor me, it was so strange to go to Venice and NOT go in a gondola! And at least you’ve now got a reason to go back!
Frank
6 September, 2013 at 1:32 pmCool adventure! I can imagine that it would be a great way to see Venice. My only problem with it; stepping into Venice is like stepping back in time, you can imagine yourself in the 17th century. I would hate to be taking a photo of the canals to see one of those modern green kayaks ruining my shot! I wouldn’t say anything if it was anywhere else but this is Venice.
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:43 pmThanks Frank – the kayaks certainly are an unusual sight but there’s still not too many of them, so they don’t spoil the wonderful views!
Rebecca
6 September, 2013 at 3:25 amoh this sounds like such an enjoyable and unique way to see this underated/underwater city! I have not been to venice yet but with all the mixed reviews I have heard this does sounds like a great way to appreciate the city. its on the to do lsit! thanks!
Lee
24 September, 2013 at 6:42 pmEven with high expectations, Venice was still incredible – I’d say forget the mixed reviews and go find out for yourself! Though if you can avoid the worst of the crowds that may help you enjoy it more.