Gondola di Venezia, offering tours of the Charles River in Boston and Cambridge Mass

NEWS & EVENTS

Since 2001 when our gondolas arrived in Boston there have been many great photos and stories about these 2 magnificent boats and the gondoliers that row them. You simply don't see authentic gondolas outside of Venice, Italy but for a few American cities and a few others scattered around the world. The gondola is full of history and mystery that goes back nearly 1000 years. If you have never witnessed a true authentic gondola, we urge you to come to Boston and enjoy the beauty of these magical boats.

If you are with a media outlet and are interested in Gondola di Venezia, we are always happy to speak with you. Please contact Megan Sliger at info@bostongondolas.com

PAST NEWS

BOSTON GONDOLIERS PARTICIPATE IN VOGA LONGA
VENICE, ITALY, 2004

The Gondola di Venezia gondoliers traveled to Venice, Italy in May of 2004 to participate in the Voga Longa.

Image of Boston gondoliers in Venice, Italy for the Voga Longa, 2004.

The Voga Longa is one of the most exciting events on water, that generally takes place on the last Sunday in May. Imagine 3500 to 5000 wooden boats waiting for the cannon to sound at 8:00 AM! The race begins in Saint Mark's basin, followed by a 14-mile trek that takes you out to the Island of Burano and back through the Island of Murano. Many different types of gondolas as well as all types of non-motorized Venetian built boats are welcome to participate. Unique wooden boats from around the world also participate. Upon reentering the Grand Canal the rowers are greeted by proud Venetians making lots of noise, banging pots and pans. The Grand Canal is actually closed on Voga Longa day, so that the Voga men and women (Voga-Venetian style rowing) can pass safely to the cheers and applause of the large crowds.

Image of Boston gondoliers participating in Voga Longa, 2004, in Venice, Italy.

The race itself is a reminder to the people of Venice and the world of its maritime history and the role that non-motorized wooden boats played in the developing world. It is also a day to promote environmental awareness with regard to the damage and destruction that motorized boats and the fuels they burn do to the fragile City of Venice.