Venice, Italy - Mediterranean Cruises

Board your motor launch and glide along the famous Grand Canal. Marvel at a panorama of noble buildings and superbly detailed façades.

Your first stop will be St Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, and from there you’ll be escorted on foot to the La Fenice Theatre.

La Fenice was inaugurated in 1792 and from the beginning of the 19th Century it acquired an ever increasing European reputation thanks to the operas of the best composers of that period, such as Rossini and Verdi. This formidable Opera House has burnt down 3 times and has incredibly, risen again each time, giving rise to its reputation as the ‘phoenix from the ashes’. Today, La Fenice closely resembles its 19th Century glory, having been spectacularly reconstructed with gilded mouldings of an improbable brilliance, plush seats and panelling covered with playful cherubs. La Fenice even has its very own canal entrance to allow theatre goers to arrive by gondola!

Admire the opulence of this truly impressive theatre, before enjoying some free time in St Mark’s Square. Indulge in a spot of shopping, relax in a nearby café or explore the city on your own. Re-join your escort at the agreed area for the return to the ship by motor launch.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. Commentary is not provided during the transfer to the theatre. Exterior seating on the motor launch is limited. There is a considerable amount of walking on this tour including steps and uneven surfaces. Photography is not permitted within the Opera House.

Your motor-launch will glide along the broad Giudecca Canal to Saint Georges Island, before traversing the southern lagoon to San Servolo and San Lazzaro.

Continue along a part of the Lido, a long strip of land dividing the Lagoon of Venice from the Adriatic Sea. You will then enter the canal that separates the two islands of Le Vignole and Sant'Erasmo.

Enjoy a view the island of Murano, renowned for its glass making. Cruising back towards Venice view the Arsenale, a vast, walled dockyard that was once the most efficient industrial complex in Europe. Your panoramic tour also passes the ancient church of San Pietro di Castello, the citys Cathedral until the beginning of the 19th century.

Approaching St Marks Basin, capture a wonderful view of St Georges Island, St Marks Square and, in the distance, the Grand Canal.


This tour is operated by motor launch. This tour is a panoramic motor launch tour, there are no stops included. Guests must be able to negotiate gangways and steps onto and off the launches. It is not possible to transit the Grand Canal as large private launches are prohibited from doing so. There are no toilets on the motor launches. The seating on board the motor-launches is made from hard wood material. The order of highlights may vary.

Your Venetian tour escort will meet you at the pier for a short motor launch transfer to the heart Venice, where you will begin your tasty adventure through the well-known districts of Venice frequented by Venetians.

A “bacaro” is a typical Venetian bar simply furnished with wooden tables and benches. It is a typical expression of the town and a relaxing place to meet with friends. Having a snack in a bacari is an established habit in Venice.

This tour will include stops at three bacari, where you’ll be welcomed and served some of the regional “cicheti”, (something similar to the Spanish tapas). These snacks are traditional meat or fish dishes and will be complemented by a glass of white or red wine or a beer.

The “giro di bacari” is a tradition unique to Venice, a city where the absence of cars makes it easy to wander around, and it is a fine way of experiencing the real Venice.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. Reservations are not accepted, therefore, venues could be crowded and you may have to stand. Children under 18 are not permitted on this tour. There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over cobblestones and paved ground. Comfortable flat shoes are recommended.

Enjoy a motor-launch ride, passing the many islands that dot the Venetian Lagoon. Pass by St Mark's for a view of the Doge's Palace and San Giorgio. See St Elena Island, the Arsenale, San Pietro di Castello and the island that serves as Venice's cemetery.

The 16th Century was known as the "great age" of Murano glass and, while glass making is no longer a secret, the products of Murano are greatly revered. Visit the Murano Glass Factory to enjoy a brief demonstration of the glass pieces being made by skilled craftsmen. You will also have an opportunity to purchase some of the distinctive, colourful pieces from the factory gallery.

Re-board your motor launch for a ride to Burano. Your guide will introduce you to the cheerful fishing village on the small island. Wander among the quaint, brightly painted houses and browse the handful of shops for souvenirs. Burano is known for its lace making, still practised by the local women. You’ll have some time Browse the Burano lace gallery, before returning to the pier.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. There is a considerable amount of walking on this excursion. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guests are advised that there are steps to negotiate at the Glass Factory. The demonstration at the glass factory is to provide a brief overview only, of the glass making.

No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to the Doge's Palace. See this opulent residence, steeped in history and lavishly decorated. Venture to the gloomy dungeons, by way of the Bridge of Sighs.

Take in the sights and monuments of the impressive landmark piazza, St Mark's. See the 300-feet-tall Campanile, as well as bustling St Mark's Square. A highlight of the square is St Mark's Basilica, a truly stunning piece of architecture and the jewel in the crown of Venice (entrance not permitted on Sunday mornings).

Enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure, stop for a spot of luncheon or perhaps do some shopping.

Depart St Mark's by motor launch for the charming island of Murano. Here, you will discover how, in the 16th century, this little island became the centre for the most spectacular glass making production in Europe - perhaps the world. See artists at work during a glass making demonstration and browse the gallery for mementos of your visit.




This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot and involves a lot of standing. Flat, comfortable shoes are advisable. The Doge's Palace includes over 100 steps throughout the visit. Bags must be left in a secure store. Flash and video cameras are not allowed in the Palace or Basilica. Please dress appropriately for entering the Basilica. Queuing is to be expected and may delay or prevent entrance to the Basilica. Interior visits in general cannot always be guaranteed as daily services may be taking place.Catholic Mass is held on Sunday mornings and an interior visit of St Mark’s Cathedral is not permitted. During high tides the Cathedral is subject to closure without notice. Luncheon is not included. Option to remain in St Marks for independent exploration is not possible due to time restraints.

The sight of the Gothic arches and marble facade of the Doges Palace encapsulates Venice. See the vast golden staircase with gilded stucco and the Doges private apartments. Glimpse into the Palace prisons by way of the famous Bridge of Sighs.

St Mark's Square features stately public buildings and elegant cafes, wonderfully animated by people and pigeons. The clock tower is topped by two bronze Moors who hammer out the time, and the 300-feet-tall Campanile looks out over the city.

One of the most beautiful buildings in the world, St Mark's Basilica, whose facade features gold mosaic arches above the carved Romanesque entrance and five dramatic domes. Your guide will offer commentary outside; as narration is not permitted within.

Time permitting, you will have the chance to browse the shops or to relax in a nearby cafe, before returning to the ship.

During your motor launch ride, you will be given brief commentary on the sights and scenery beginning your walking tour of Venice.


This tour operates by motor launch and on foot and involves a lot of standing. Flat, comfortable shoes are advisable. The Doges Palace includes over 100 steps throughout the visit. Bags must be left in a secure store. Flash and video cameras are not allowed in the Palace or Basilica. Please dress appropriately for entering the Basilica. Queuing is to be expected and may delay or prevent entrance to the Basilica. Interior visits in general cannot always be guaranteed as daily services may be taking place. Catholic Mass is held on Sunday mornings and an interior visit of St Mark’s Cathedral is not permitted. During high tides the Cathedral is subject to closure without notice.

From the ship, take a motor launch cruise along the Giudecca Canal, enjoying panoramic evening views of The Redeemer Church, St George's Island, the Salute Church and St Mark's Basin. On arrival in the St Mark’s area, you will be met by your guide, who will escort you to the Basilica to share its fascinating history with you.

Saint Mark is the patron saint of Venice and the Byzantine Basilica is where his remains are kept. St Mark's Basilica is one of the most popular sites in the city and can be crowded with visitors during the day before reverting to a quiet temple of worship once evening falls.

This after-hours viewing of St Mark's is a wonderful opportunity to see the glory of the Basilica. Illuminated from within, the interior is bathed in a soft glowing light making your experience of this magnificent church even more atmospheric.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot.Guests should dress appropriately ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered. Photography is not permitted within the Basilica. Please note that although the Basilica is closed to the public, there may be other groups allowed to visit during your time there. In the event that religious services are held in the evening, this tour will be cancelled.

See the Doge's Palace with its gothic arches and delicate marble facade. Discover the opulent interior allowing the lavishly decorated rooms, golden staircase, and Venetian masterpieces to dazzle you. Venture into the gloomier Palace Prisons, via the sorrowful Bridge of Sighs.

Enjoy the atmosphere of St Mark's Square, the epicentre of Venice. Admire the architectural delights: the formal public buildings, imposing campanile tower and splendid Doge's Palace flanked by the stunning Basilica.

Marvel at the one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, St Mark's Basilica (interior visit is unguided).

Complete your Venetian experience with a glide along the city's enchanting canals on a gondola. Riding six per gondola, enjoy the sights from a different perspective on the city's most famous form of transport.

Time permitting, you will have a short while for shopping or independent exploration at the end of the tour.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. This excursion and involves a lot of walking and standing. Flat, non-slip shoes are recommended.Guests must be reasonably agile to board the gondola. The ride will be unguided and will not operate in extreme weather conditions. The Doge’s Palace includes over 100 steps throughout the visit. Bags must be left in a secure store. Flash and video cameras are not allowed in the Palace or Basilica. Please dress appropriately for entering the Basilica. Queuing is to be expected and may delay or prevent entrance to the Basilica. Interior visits in general cannot always be guaranteed as daily services may be taking place. Catholic Mass is held on Sunday mornings and an interior visit of St Mark’s Cathedral is not permitted. During high tides the Cathedral is subject to closure without notice.

Enjoy a motor launch ride into the heart of Venice and see the city by night. Take a short walk to the gondola station where you will board one of the beautiful hand painted boats, which typify Venice. To be a gondolier is a special privilege for Venetians and they take great pride in their cherished vessels.

The sights speak for themselves as your experienced gondolier navigates you through the narrow canals. Serenely glide under stone bridges and past balconied waterfront buildings. During your ride, a few gondolas will gather together for a brief musical serenade; a moment to be cherished.

At the end of your gondola ride, you'll walk back to the motor launch station to return to the ship.


This excirsion operates by gondola and on foot.There is a 20 minute walk, over some cobblestoned surfaces to the gondola station, and queues to board are likely. Please take extra care when stepping in and out of the gondolas. Guests must be reasonably agile to board the gondola. Flat, comfortable non-slip shoes are essential. The gondola ride will be approximately 30 to 40 minutes long and will be un-guided and without narration. Gondolas seat 6 guests, however for the evening ride; only 4 guests will be permitted per gondola. This tour will not operate in heavy rain, wind or extreme tidal conditions.

After a short ride on a motor launch, you‘ll alight and take a delightful walk through the lively area of Rio Terà San Leonardo before arriving at Campo del Ghetto, the heart of the Jewish Community of Venice.

In the 16th Century, the Jewish patrons of Venice were confined to the Ghetto after sunset, and huge gates were locked each night. Jewish residents were obliged to wear distinctive clothing, forbidden to own land, and the only profession open to them was in medicine. Though the Venetians are not proud of this history, the Ghetto has been preserved as to gain a glimpse into the life of those who once lived there.

Although today the Ghetto is home to only a few Jewish families, the ethnic flavour of the neighbourhood still remains. Some of the fine synagogues here date from the 16th Century.

The Schola Grande Tedesca, Schola Canton and Schola Levantini each represent different Jewish nationalities. The interior of the synagogues are opulently decorated with carved woodwork. You’ll have some free time for an independent visit of the little museum, where a varied collection of silver and religious objects is displayed.

Afterwards, you’ll walk back to the launch pontoon for your transfer back to the ship.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. As this excursion involves extensive walking, we recommend guests wear flat, comfortable shoes. Euros and major credit cards are accepted for purchases. Entrance to the museum is included but is unguided. The synagogues visited may vary throughout the season if there are services taking place.

You will be transferred from the pier by motor launch into the heart of Venice. Upon arrival, take a short walk to the gondola station and board one of the beautiful hand painted boats. You will traverse some of the smaller canals, crossed by stone bridges, and pass by balconied waterfront buildings. Relax as you glide through Venice on the city's most famous form of transport.

Following tour Gondola experience, some free time will be given to explore Venice at your own leisure. Stroll through St Mark's Square, admire the imposing campanile tower, view the magnificent San Giorgio Church or simply relax in one of the local cafe's. You may choose to spend some time browsing through the many designer shops and boutiques.

Afterwards, rejoin your escort at the designated meeting point, for the return motor launch to the pier.


This excursion operates by motor launch, Gondola and on foot. There is a 15 minute walk, over some cobblestoned surfaces to the gondola station, and queues to board are likely. Please take extra care when stepping in and out of the gondolas. Guests must be reasonably agile to board the gondola. Flat, comfortable non-slip shoes are essential. Each gondola seats 6. The gondola ride will be approximately 30 minutes long and will be un-guided and without narration. This tour will not operate in heavy rain, wind or extreme tidal conditions. Please dress appropriately if entering churches. Please make a note of the meeting point and time, as the return motor launch cannot be held for latecomers.

Allow your guide to take you on a journey of discovery. Take a stroll into the heart of Venice through narrow streets and bustling piazzas, over tiny footbridges and past beautiful buildings exuding Venetian character and charm.

See the facade of the vast 14th century Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari church, which is simple but beautifully punctuated with a white marble portico and pinnacles. The square of Campo San Polo is one of the oldest and largest piazzas in Venice, in ancient times it was used for ceremonies and theatrical performances.

After the collapse of several wooden bridges, it was decided that the Rialto Bridge must be constructed in stone. One of only four bridges to cross the Grand Canal, Rialto remains the most famous bridge in Venice.

Campo San Giovanni e Paolo is one of the citys most monumental squares. Here you'll find the Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, the largest example of Gothic architecture in Venice.

You will make a stop at a nearby cafe to enjoy some welcome refreshments, before strolling
back to the motor launch for your return journey to the ship.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If wishing to enter churches independently, please remember to dress appropriately, ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered. Please refrain from taking flash photography within churches.