About this tour
Paddle through the Venetian Lagoon's quieter islands on this 4.5-hour kayak journey. You'll navigate Sant'Erasmo and Vignole—Venice's produce-growing heartland—explore the 16th-century Sant'Andrea fortress, learn the origins of quarantine at Lazzaretto Nuovo, and find a secluded natural beach on Certosa. An expert naturalist guides you throughout, offering perspective on the lagoon's ecology and history whilst you catch Venice's famous skyline from the water.
Highlights
- Paddle past Sant'Erasmo and Vignole's vegetable farms
- Visit Sant'Andrea fortress, Venice's defensive stronghold
- Discover Lazzaretto Nuovo, birthplace of the quarantine concept
- Beach time on Certosa's hidden natural cove
- View Venice's skyline from a kayak's vantage point
- Small-group tour with naturalist guide included
What to expect
You'll meet at Fondamente Nove in Venice and receive a safety briefing before setting out in your own kayak. The paddle spans roughly 4.5 hours across calm lagoon waters, moving between islands at an easy to moderate pace. Expect stops at each location where your guide shares the lagoon's story—from agricultural practices to military history and the plague-era origins of isolation protocols. You'll have time to swim or rest on Certosa's beach before paddling back. Most of the route stays flat and sheltered, though you should be comfortable in a kayak for extended periods.
Good to know
Life vests, kayaks, and ergonomic paddles are supplied. You'll need to buy a vaporetto (water bus) ticket to Sant'Erasmo on the day—purchase it onboard. A €5 entry fee applies to Venice on certain dates for day visitors; check official sources. Moderate fitness required; not suitable for pregnant travellers or those with spinal or heart conditions.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original Global Hobo summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.