Tours on water

Like a modern day Marco Polo, you can get out onto the lagoon and see the floating city as it was meant to be viewed. Check the weather forecast, as tours may be subject to change. Bring sunscreen and a hat in summer, layered clothing and a windproof jacket in winter. Here’s a rundown of some of the best tours on offer:  

Venice Kayak Offers group and private tours down city canals and out on the lagoon. Swimming skills and some prior paddling experience is required. Beginners can join more expert paddlers in a two-person kayak.  

SUP in Venice Stand-up paddlers over the age of 14 can take tours with qualified art historian Eliana Argine. The two-hour tours weave through the quieter canals of Castello and Cannaregio.  

Terra e Acqua Eco-friendly boat tours in a traditional bragozzo take you out into the further reaches of the lagoon exploring old quarantine islands, fishing and birding hotspots.  

Cruising Venice Cruises Wonderful one- to eight-day lagoon tours aboard a double-masted 1946 flat-bottomed fishing boat called Eolo, including on-board cookery lessons and spectacular seafood lunches.  

Lagunalonga Enjoy modern comforts aboard this three-bedroom Linssen yacht captained by documentary filmmaker and all-round lagoon expert Fancesco Calzolaio. Itineraries range from single day cruises to seven-day adventures.