When you think of Venice, the iconic image of a gondola gliding through the narrow canals often comes to mind. But have you ever wondered what it’s like to actually row one of these beautiful boats? On our recent trip, we decided to dive deeper into Venetian culture by taking a gondola rowing lesson with Row Venice—a unique experience that allowed us to learn the art of rowing a Venetian gondola in the traditional style.
Learning to row a gondola is an unforgettable way to experience Venice’s canals. If you’re planning a trip to Venice with kids, don’t miss my full guide on visiting Venice with kids—it’s packed with tips and everything you need to know before you go!
About Row Venice
Our adventure began with the idea of doing something different, something that would give us a deeper connection to Venice beyond the typical tourist experiences. We’ve all seen the gondolas gracefully moving through the Grand Canal, but actually learning to row one ourselves? That’s what caught our attention and led us to book from Row Venice.
For our gondola rowing adventure, we chose Row Venice, a fantastic non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the traditional Venetian rowing style, Voga Alla Veneta. They offer private rowing lessons that allow you to learn how to row a real Venetian batela (the precursor to the gondola) under the guidance of experienced instructors. The private tour cost 150 Euros for four people. I also love that all the instructors at Row Venice are women, which is pretty rare for gondoliers!
Our Experience
We met our instructor at the starting point near the Arsenal Dock, a quiet area away from the busy tourist spots, offering us a glimpse of the real Venice.
The lesson began with a brief introduction to the types of Venetian rowing and the unique shapes of Venetian boats. We were immediately struck by the shape of the traditional Venetian boat we would be rowing—slightly different from the gondolas we were used to seeing. It was a traditional wooden boat designed specifically for single-oar regattas and for navigating the shallow waters and narrow canals of Venice.
Our instructor was an experienced rower who explained the basics of the Voga Alla Veneta, a rowing technique that has been passed down through generations.
Unlike the typical rowing style, most of us are familiar with, Voga Alla Veneta involves standing at the back of the boat and using a long oar to push the boat forward in a smooth, rhythmic motion. The shaft of the oar rested in a beautifully crafted Venetian oarlock, and with each stroke, we were instructed to pay attention to the weight of the boat, the water level, and the pivot point of the oar.
The lesson was divided into two main parts: mastering the basic stroke and then navigating through the narrow Venetian canals.
Initially, we practiced in calm waters in the sleepy canals of outer Venice to get the hang of the rowing technique. It was surprisingly challenging, especially when it came to maintaining a straight course and mastering the return stroke.
However, our instructor was incredibly patient, guiding us with tips on how to use the side of the gondola to stabilize our movements and how to execute the right-angle turns that are essential when navigating Venice’s waterways.
Soon, though, we ventured into the canals of Venice and onto the open lagoon. This was where the magic truly happened. Rowing through the narrow canals, surrounded by the ancient buildings and the quiet charm of the city, was unlike anything we had experienced before.
The narrow Venetian waterways required precise maneuvering, and we quickly learned the importance of balancing the single oar to control the boat’s movement. Every stroke felt like a dance with the water, and by the end of the lesson, we had gained a newfound appreciation for the gondoliers who navigate these waters daily.
I want to note that my youngest (7 year old) did not enjoy the experience as the oar was too heavy for him and he didn’t want to help. With that, the instructor gave him the task of using a net to fish out trash that we passed by during our lesson. He felt important and took the job very seriously, and I thought that was a great suggestion from the instructor. My oldest (age 10) was able to maneuver the oar just fine!
One of the most rewarding aspects of the lesson was the hands-on experience it provided. This wasn’t just a passive gondola ride; we were actively engaged in the process, learning how to row a real Venetian boat just like the locals have done for centuries.
The physicality of the experience was both challenging and exhilarating. The private lesson allowed us to receive personalized attention, making sure that we mastered the techniques at our own pace. We also learned about the history of Venetian gondolas and how the Venetian style of rowing has remained a vital part of the city’s identity.
Our instructor shared fascinating insights into the Venetian history associated with the rules of the canal that have governed the waterways for centuries. We learned how the traditional V boats and Venetian rowing style are adapted for different types of boats, from the iconic gondolas to the smaller service boats used by locals. It was a reminder of how these traditional boats have been part of Venice’s culture since the 16th century.
As we rowed through the canals, we also had the chance to observe the daily life of Venetians from a unique perspective. The bustling streets faded into the background as we focused on the rhythm of the oar and the serene beauty of the Venetian gondola. The narrow canals and small bridges took on a new significance as we navigated them ourselves, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s unique relationship with its waterways.
What to Wear and What to Bring
There’s limited space on the batela, so leave oversized items at the hotel. Our instructor didn’t wear shoes at all, but I found sandals with a solid grip were helpful (I wore my trusty Birkenstocks). Comfortable, casual clothes were fine…remember that you’ll be navigating in and out of a boat, so this isn’t the day for a miniskirt.
If you’re going in summer, remember to bring a water bottle and sunscreen. You’ll be in full sun, and there are no facilities near the lesson site, so having your own water (and snacks, if you’ve got little ones) is especially helpful.
Overall Thoughts on the Gondola Rowing Experience
Reflecting on our time with Row Venice, it’s clear that this was one of the best experiences we’ve had in the city. The combination of learning the rowing technique, understanding the history of the gondola, and actually rowing through the canals of Venice made for an authentic experience that we’ll remember for years to come.
It’s one thing to take a gondola ride through the Grand Canal, but it’s an entirely different experience to be the one rowing, feeling the weight of the boat and the water beneath you.
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Venice that goes beyond the typical tourist activities, I highly recommend signing up for a private rowing lesson with Row Venice. It’s a hands-on experience that offers a deeper connection to the city’s culture and history, allowing you to see Venice from a completely different perspective.
I also loved that it was a physical, active, immersive experience for the kids – I am always looking for activities where we can both learn and get involved. This one was that perfect combination and a great activity for families in Venice.
Whether it’s your first time in Venice or you’re returning for a second time, this activity is a great way to explore the traditional Venetian rowing style and create memories that will last a lifetime.
