Today I went to the gondoliers' station and saw the usual difficulties guests face when boarding. Let me give you some tips to better enjoy the experience: the gondola is a very long, flat-bottomed boat.

Do you know how to get into a gondola?

 Getting in is very safe: at the pier, there is a dedicated person who helps you, the ganser. With one arm he holds a hook to keep the boat still, and with the other hand, he helps you up. Of course, the ganser doesn't speak foreign languages, but that's why we at Venice Tours are there to help you board one by one, explaining in all languages how it’s done. There are comfortable steps to help you. You board one at a time to avoid unbalancing it, and you never jump on board. If someone is elderly or has difficulties, other gondoliers are always ready to assist.

How many people can it carry and how to behave?

 A gondola carries a maximum of 5 people: you will always have the chance to experience an intimate ride. You must sit according to the gondolier's instructions to balance the boat; above all, never stand up during navigation because it can unbalance the gondola.

How long does the ride last?

 Generally, it lasts about 30 minutes, but you must consider boarding and disembarking, which take a few minutes; therefore, the actual ride is about 25 minutes.

What if I want to chat with the gondolier?

It is at the gondolier's discretion if he wants to talk: he is focused on steering and your safety. If he doesn't talk, you cannot blame him. Would you be happy if a city taxi driver got distracted talking to you? The gondolier has no steering wheel, motor, brakes, or sensors: he only has his oar, which is everything!!! And he moves on water, with currents, not on solid ground. Be understanding if he doesn't speak. They are very proud of their work: watch with what mastery they turn in the canals. Take a photo of him; he will give you a big smile because you are important to him. His mission is to let you experience the essence of Venice: this is more important than a thousand words

The gondola is a universe and the heart of traditions: it tells about Venice more than anything else. For this reason, our experts will let you enter this world, accompanying you to the embarkation to get on board your gondola and live your tour with dedicated explanations, then guiding you to the discovery of the Gondola Gallery. Here you will find our specialized bookstore, a sectioned gondola, and the VR Experience. We wait for you in campo San Gallo at our starting point (San Marco 1093/b), to do the Gondola Experience™ by Venice Tours, to begin together this journey into the world of the gondola.