Destination Guides

The Vogalonga boat race in Venice

Recently updated on January 14th, 2020 at 01:41 pm

If you’re travelling in Venice on 23 May 2010, do try to catch the spectacular Vogalonga. This is a larger than life, non-competitive boat race where rowers completely take over the lagoon and canals much to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

On the day of the Vogalonga, all motorboats are banned from Venice’s canals and only rowing boats fill the backwaters. Up to 2000 boats in fact! The final stretch of the race is along the Grand Canal, which is the best place to stand for the best views of rowers’ brilliant fancy dress efforts as well as the glorious winners’ smiling faces. Make sure you cheer them on!

The Vogalonga epitomises the celebratory Venetian way of life and of course their love of the canals and rowing. Attending the event will give you a greater insight to the essence of Venice than any number of walks along the canals will and you’ll certainly be thoroughly entertained too.

Are you heading to Vogalonga this weekend? We’d love to hear your stories. Leave us a comment below and tell us what you thought of Vogalonga, or even let us know a Venice tale or two!

Vogalonga

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