Italy
Boat tours in Venice
See the city or the coast from the water, from short cruises to full-day sailing. Venice is 118 small islands linked by about 400 bridges, with no cars at all, so everything happens on foot or by boat.
Best boat tours in Venice
Free cancellation on most experiences. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to expect
City cruises take about an hour; coastal trips run half or full day with swim stops. Rough sea can cancel departures, and good operators refund or reschedule.
How to choose
- Small boat vs large ferry-style cruise
- Swim stops and snorkel gear included
- Drinks or lunch on board
- Weather cancellation policy
Local tips
- Sunset departures sell out first. Pick free cancellation in case of bad weather.
- Single vaporetto tickets are expensive, so buy a 1 to 7 day travel pass if you plan more than two rides.
- On peak days in spring and summer day visitors pay an access fee, while overnight guests are exempt but must register.
Combine it with: Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica, Murano, Burano and Torcello by boat and Cicchetti and ombra bacaro crawl.
Frequently asked questions
How long do boat tours in Venice last?
City cruises take about an hour; coastal trips run half or full day with swim stops. Rough sea can cancel departures, and good operators refund or reschedule.
What is the best way to book boat tours in Venice?
Sunset departures sell out first. Pick free cancellation in case of bad weather. Single vaporetto tickets are expensive, so buy a 1 to 7 day travel pass if you plan more than two rides.
Can I cancel boat tours in Venice?
Most experiences listed here offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the conditions on the booking page before paying.
When is the best time to visit Venice?
April to June and September to early November are the most pleasant months. Summer is hot and crowded, Carnival in February fills hotels, and acqua alta flooding is most likely between October and January.