cruise ships venice canals

Venice Italy Cruise Port Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Flannels or FlipFlops Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my disclaimer for more information.

Wondering about the Venice Italy Cruise Port?

You’ve come to the right place! As a travel advisor, who specializes in cruise travel, I have taken many hours of courses on cruise ports, and have booked numerous clients on cruises with stops at the Venice Italy Cruise Port.

Nestled within the Venetian Lagoon is Venice, an Italian city famed for its numerous scenic canals and beautiful historical architecture. It’s one of the most romantic cities in the world and a popular destination for cruisers.

In this article, I will delve into everything you need to know about Venice Cruise Port including tips and recommendations for shore excursions.

Where is Venice Cruise Port Located?

The official Cruise Port of Venice, also known as Terminal Venezia Passeggeri, is located to the west of the historic city, 4 km south of the causeway that links historical Venice to the mainland.

The cruise terminal consists of two parts: the Stazione Marittima cruise terminal which houses the largest cruise ships and the San Basilio cruise terminal.

However, as of 2021, the Italian government has placed a ban on large cruise ships which weigh over 25,000 tonnes, docking inside the Venetian Lagoon. Only smaller ships below this weight can dock in the official Venice Cruise Port.

Large cruise ships are being rerouted and instructed to dock in the industrial port of Marghera which is on the mainland, just below the causeway to Venice.

However, some large cruise ships are now stopping in Ravenna Cruise Port (a 2- hour drive south of Venice) and cruisers are journeying by bus to Venice.

Despite cruise ships docking in Marghera industrial port, cruise passengers will still be shuttled to and from the main Venice Cruise Port for both logistical health and safety reasons, as Marghera does not have the infrastructure to act as an official cruise port.

As the majority of cruise ships will be docking in Marghera industrial port, this will be the focus of our article rather than Ravenna Cruise Port.

⭐️ Purchase Venice Shore Excursions at a Discount Here

Venice Italy Cruise Port

Getting around venice from the cruise port.

Although your cruise ship will dock at Marghera industrial port, shuttle services will likely be provided by your cruise liner from the passenger terminals to the official Venice Cruise Port.

This could be via bus or private water taxi.

If shuttle services are not available, Marghera Port is conveniently located beside a train station. It’s a quick 7-minute train journey from this station to Santa Lucia station, nestled in the heart of Venice. Trains are frequent, several journeying each hour, and cost €2,90 per person each way.

Another way to reach Venice from the cruise port is via bus. The bus stop in Marghera is right beside the train station. The journey takes 8 minutes and will drop you at Venice Piazzale Roma . You can book a day pass online in advance of your visit.

There are also water buses available that travel between Venice and the cruise port. This service is offered by ACTV. If you wish to travel by water bus, then I’d recommend booking your day pass online in advance.

Private water taxis are also available. They’re significantly more expensive than the waterbuses (around €90) but you will have the boat all to yourself.

Alternatively, it’s an 8-minute taxi ride to journey from Marghera Cruise Port to the center of Venice.

Are There Free Shuttles From Venice Cruise Port?

Your cruise liner should offer you a free shuttle service to and from the cruise ship in Marghera to Venice Cruise Port which is on the edge of Venice.

I’d recommend checking with your cruise ship in advance to clarify if they offer this service.

If your cruise ship doesn’t offer this service, trains, buses, and water buses are all available between Marghera and Venice.

✅ You can book a private water taxi from Venice to the cruise port here

Can You Walk into Venice from Your Cruise Ship?

It’s very easy to walk into Venice from Venice Cruise Port (which is where your cruise liner should drop you) as it is perched on the edge of the city. It will take just a few minutes for you to be engulfed by the beautiful city.

If your cruise liner doesn’t offer a shuttle service to Venice Cruise Port, Marghera Port (where your cruise ship will be based) is too far away from Venice for you to easily walk into the city.

It’s located on the other side of a lengthy causeway which, although does have a pavement, isn’t convenient.

It would take over an hour to walk from the cruise terminal into Venice, and that doesn’t include all the further walking you will then complete around the city.

I’d recommend taking public transport or a taxi instead.

Are there Taxis Available from Venice Cruise Port?

Yes, you can grab a taxi from Venice Cruise Port which you can take to Venice Marco Polo Airport.

A taxi isn’t necessary to journey between Venice Cruise Port and Venice City as the cruise port is so close to the city and the city doesn’t have any roads for motor vehicles beyond Piazzale Roma.

✅ Book a shuttle from Venice to the airport

Best Shore Excursions from the Venice Cruise Port

There are a number of fantastic things to see and do during your time in Venice. Below are some of my favorite Venice shore excursions.

1. Gondola Ride

By far one of the most popular and unique ways to view Venice is by gondola . These charming small boats without a motor are able to navigate down quiet canals, allowing you the opportunity to soak up the fantastic architecture from the comfort of your traditional boat.

Being one of the more popular activities in Venice, there are a host of gondola tours available, from private to small group tours. Your excursion can be booked in advance online or you can just turn up on the day.

➡️ Book ahead for this top rated Gondola Ride

2. Basilica San Marco (St. Mark’s Basilica)

Nestled in the heart of St. Mark’s Square is a magnificent cathedral called St. Mark’s Basilica. It’s one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the city, as well as a prime example of Byzantine architecture.

The cathedral is incredible to marvel at from afar. It’s also worth paying a visit inside. In order to beat the queues, I’d recommend booking a tour which includes skip-the-line tickets, such as this one .

If you’d like to visit several of Venice’s key attractions then it may be worth booking a walking tour that visits St Mark’s Basilica as well as other magnificent sights.

➡️ This is a great skip the line tour !

3. Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square)

No visit to Venice would be complete without soaking up the vast historical monuments which call St Mark’s Square home. As well as housing the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica, this vast square is also the refuge of St Mark’s Campanile, a 16th-century cathedral tower.

The corner of Doge’s Palace is also visible from this beautiful square.

Within the square, you can find a number of cafes and restaurants, the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or some lunch whilst enjoying fantastic views of the square.

4. Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace)

Doge’s Palace is a magnificent palace located in St. Mark’s Square. It served as the residence of the Doge, the chief magistrate and ruler of the Venetian Republic, as well as the seat of the government for close to 1000 years.

Today this historically significant landmark is a museum. You can visit Doge’s Palace along with the neighboring St Mark’s Basilica as part of a skip-the-line walking tour.

➡️ See Doges Palace, St Marks and a Gondola Ride with this incredible tour!

5. Food & Wine Walking Tour

Italy is a country renowned for its delicious cuisine and locally-produced wines. One of the best ways to try the local dishes is to take a food and wine tour.

This food and wine tour has exceptional online reviews and specializes in allowing you to sample Venetian appetizers known as Cicchetti.

Alternatively, this tour allows you to sample some lovely sweet treats such as traditional Venetian cookies and homemade gelato.

6. Rialto Bridge

Spanning the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge is the oldest and most renowned bridge in the city. Designed by Antonio da Ponte, it features a single stone arch that spans the Grand Canal, supported by two inclined ramps on either side.

Rialto Bridge can be viewed either from the water on a boat tour or you can walk over the top of it. The bridge is so large that it even houses shops! Alternatively, you can admire the bridge from the streets on either side of the canal.

7. Teatro la Fenice (Opera House)

Teatro La Fenice is an internationally renowned opera house that’s nestled in the heart of Venice. It’s in fact considered one of the most prestigious and historic theaters in the world. The original opera house sadly burnt down in 1996 and has since been rebuilt.

Teatro la Fenice is an active opera theater. You can book tickets to view operas that are performed there. If you would like to view a performance, I’d recommend booking in advance as tickets can quickly sell out.

Even if you don’t plan on viewing an opera, Teatro La Fenice is still worth viewing from the exterior.

8. Grand Canal

The largest canal in Venice, the 4-kilometer (1.5 mile) Grand Canal cuts through the city of Venice and houses some of the city’s most beautiful buildings.

With barely any walkways beside the canal, the best way to view it and absorb the colorful atmosphere is to take to the water.

This wide waterway is a little too big for gondola rides to take you the whole way but there are plenty of other boat tours available, which journey down this long and majestic canal, passing under the canal’s 4 bridges, including the famous Rialto Bridge.

Getting From Venice Airport to the Cruise Port

There are a number of ways to journey from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Venice Cruise Port.

The quickest and easiest way to journey to the Venice cruise terminal is via water taxi . Being located right on the water, taxi boats are conveniently available just outside the airport. Although this is the quickest way to reach the cruise terminal, it’s also the most expensive way.

You can alternatively take a land taxi between Venice Marco Polo Airport and Venice Cruise Port. The journey is typically between 15 and 20 minutes in length.

Finally, you can journey by bus to Piazzale Roma which is just a short walk away from the cruise terminal.

Places to Stay Near Venice Cruise Port

There are a number of fabulous hotels that are located in Venice’s city center, just a stone’s throw away from the cruise terminal.

Cinqueteste Luxury Home is one of the best-reviewed hotels in the area. It’s a 25-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square and a 20-minute walk from Venice Cruise Port. The hotel is perched right on the canal so if you choose a canal-facing room you will have exceptional views.

Another fantastic option is Hotel Cipriani , a luxurious hotel on an island to the south of the main city which looks across the waterway to Doge’s Palace.

Hotel Moresco is one of the closer hotels to the cruise port, only a 20-minute walk from it. It’s a charming boutique hotel and rooms are dressed in a combination of 19th-century and modern design.

Venice Quick Facts

Best time to visit venice.

The best time to visit Venice in terms of weather is between May and October .

Venice is an extremely popular city and so during the holiday season, you will no doubt be contending with crowds.

In order to get the best balance between beating the crowds and having lovely weather, May, September, and October are the best times to visit.

What kind of currency is used in Venice?

The currency accepted in Venice is the Euro. It was previously the Italian Lira, but is no longer in circulation.

Cruise Liners that Visit Venice Cruise Port

As of the 2021 changes to Venice Cruise Port, which doesn’t allow large cruise ships to dock in the port, a reduced number of cruise liners now dock in Venice at Marghera industrial port.

Some of the cruise ships that still stop in Venice are:

• ● MSC Cruises
• ● Norwegian Cruise Line
• ● Silversea Cruises
• ● Seabourne
• ● Azamara Cruises
• ● Fred Olsen
• ● Viking Ocean

Other cruise ships such as Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises now dock in nearby cities such as Ravenna.

Venice Cruise Port FAQS

Where do the cruise ships dock in venice.

Cruise ships to Venice now must dock in Marghera industrial port, on the mainland, across the lagoon from Venice. This is a result of a 2021 ban on large cruise ships from docking in Venice.

Cruise passengers however will be shuttled by their cruise liner to and from the official Venice Cruise Port which is right next to the city of Venice.

Why is Venice closed to cruise ships?

The reason for closing Venice to cruise ships is to preserve the Venetian lagoon. Venice had been put on the UNESCO World Heritage’s blacklist as a Heritage Site in danger and the large numbers of cruise ships that visit the fragile city were listed as part of the reason for this.

How long does it take to get from the Venice cruise terminal to the airport?

It takes between 15 and 20 minutes to journey between Venice Cruise Port and Marco Polo Airport via taxi. Journeying by water taxi boat takes a similar amount of time.

Final Thoughts on the Venice Cruise Port

Venice is a very beautiful city that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. Famed for its picturesque canals lined by historic buildings, a day spent in this Italian city is never anything short of magical.

The new regulations for cruise liners do make a cruise visit to Venice a little more complicated than it used to be. Different cruise liners now dock at different cruise ports so it’s important you check with your cruise line exactly where you will be docking and if a free shuttle service to Venice city center is included.

If you need any help at all planning your European Cruise, please reach out ! I help at no additional cost to you!

Chantelle Kincy

Chantelle is a nationally syndicated travel writer, and travel advisor. An avid cruiser, Chantelle has explored many parts of the world through her travels. She is also a dedicated National Parks enthusiast and loves to hike in these beautiful locations. To further her expertise in the industry, Chantelle has taken numerous courses to become a specialist in various destinations, including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Through her blog and advising business, Chantelle shares her love for travel and helps others plan their dream vacations.

Please Share!

Similar Posts

The Perfect Copenhagen 2 Day Itinerary

Is Nassau Worth It in 2024? Should You Stay On The Ship?

The best All Inclusive Day Passes in Jamaica (2024)

Europe’s Haunted Castles and Their Dark Histories

Can’t MIss Things to Do in Costa Maya

Best Caves in Barbados to Explore in 2024

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Venice and Cruise Ships: A Delicate Balance

Last month, a 2,500-passenger ship entered the Venetian Lagoon — the first since the pandemic began — reanimating the debate on the negative effects of mass tourism.

By Anna Momigliano

In early June, the MSC Orchestra, a 2,500-passenger cruise ship, entered the Venetian Lagoon at dawn, sailing through St. Mark’s Basin, past the Doge’s Palace and the still-quiet St. Mark’s Square. It continued its journey through the Giudecca Canal and then docked on Venice ’s main island.

It was the first time a cruise ship had entered the lagoon since the pandemic hit Italy in February 2020.

In a place that is heavily dependent on tourism , and where cruise travel contributes about 3 percent of the local gross domestic product, many in Venice welcomed the ship.

But others did not. Among the latter were 2,000 protesters who met the MSC Orchestra when it sailed on its reverse route two days later. Some were on small boats on the Giudecca Canal; others chanted anti-cruise slogans from the waterfront.

“I hope we made some of the passengers wonder if what they were doing is wrong and think about the social and environmental impact of their vacation,” said Jane da Mosto, a biologist and activist who took part in the protest on a small boat.

The pandemic has put Venice ’s legendary international tourism influx on hold for more than a year. In doing so, it has sparked an animated debate on how mass tourism has negatively affected both the lagoon’s environment and Venice’s character. In this debate, cruise ships have become a metonym for overtourism.

The pandemic hiatus has given the city — which is celebrating its 1,600th birthday this year — a chance to reflect on how tourism’s exponential growth has eroded its social fabric, driving non-touristy businesses and residents out. In the past four decades the city’s historical center (what most Americans mean when they say “Venice”) has lost half of its residents, now down to 50,000.

“The situation is dramatic, there are no houses,” said Maria Fiano, 46, a high school teacher who runs OCIO, an organization that monitors Venice’s housing. According to her estimates , 42 percent of beds in the center are rented to tourists, which landlords find more profitable, leaving many locals struggling to find a place.

But not every tourist has the same cost-benefit ratio. While day trippers — including many of those who are cruise passengers — amount to 73 percent of visitors, they contribute only 18 percent of the tourism economy. The proportion is inverted for people who spend at least one night at a hotel; they represent 14 percent of visitors, but 48 percent of the business.

In March, the local government of Veneto, Venice’s region, approved a plan vowing to curb hit-and-run visitors and attract more slow-paced ones. They also hope to wean Venice off its over-dependency on tourism, creating new places of employment, including a hydrogen plant, a project still in its embryonic phase, and a recently launched accelerator for renewable energy businesses. “It’s the first time that local authorities formally recognized that mass tourism cannot go on like this forever and that depopulation is a serious problem,” said Fabio Moretti, the dean of Venice’s Academy of Fine Arts, which was involved in the plan along with other academic institutions and the Boston Consulting Group.

‘An act of violence against the city’

The presence of large ships in the lagoon, especially those in the immediate vicinity of Venice’s most precious sites, has raised eyebrows at UNESCO and sparked protests by residents since 2012. They argue that mammoth, fuel-guzzling ships are physically incompatible both with Venice, a two-square-mile island, and the lagoon that surrounds it. (A 2019 study published in Nature asserted that the wakes created by large vessels induced the erosion of the shoreline and, through the “continuous resuspension of sediment in the area,” could redistribute industrial pollutants already present in the lagoon.)

It’s not so much the number of visitors they bring overall — only 7 percent of the 27 million tourists who visited Venice in 2019 were cruise passengers, according to a recent study by the Boston Consulting Group — but the fact that they bring thousands of them all at once, overcrowding the city’s historical center while contributing little to its economy.

On average each cruise passenger injects about 200 euros into Venice’s economy, according to the same study, but most of that money goes to port taxes and other services, such as laundry and refueling, rather than city-center businesses like restaurants and museums.

“I’ve never interacted much with cruise tourists, they are rarely seen in places like mine,” said Andrea Degnato, 37, who manages a wine bar called Cantina Arnaldi.

Indeed, because they are often in too much of a hurry to linger in a wine bar, cruise visitors are seen as the opposite of the kind of tourists who would make Venice tourism more sustainable.

“People are unloaded here as a sack of potatoes, they hang around, thousands of them, just a couple of hours, buy a slice of pizza and go back,” said Silvia Jop, 37, a Venetian who works in cinema and cultural events. “If you add this to environmental damages, it’s an act of violence against the city.”

But she also acknowledges that cruises provide work to thousands of people, such as cleaners and porters, although most of them tend to be from the nearby mainland. “Their right to have a source of employment must be respected,” Ms. Jop said.

‘Like having an elephant in a china store’

For centuries, the Venetian Lagoon protected Venice. Built on a cluster of islands, the city could not be attacked from land, and the lagoon’s hard-to-navigate shallow waters and muddy seabed discouraged invaders from sea, who risked getting stranded. Thanks to this inaccessibility, Venice maintained its status as a maritime power throughout most of the Middle Ages.

But today Venice can be reached on cruise ships weighing up to 95,000 tons, docking directly in the heart of the old city.

“It’s like having an elephant in a china store,” said Diego Calaon, a scholar of ancient topography at Venice’s Ca’ Foscari University. He noted that, in its heyday in the late Middle Ages, Venice had a policy of preventing large vessels from docking on its shores, noting that they were much, much smaller than modern cruise ships.

Stretching 30 miles across the Adriatic and shielded from the open sea by two narrow islands, the lagoon is a shallow body of salt water , often less than 5 feet deep, crisscrossed by deeper trenches created by erosion or dug by man. It is only through these canals that vessels of a considerable size can navigate — and, even so, with difficulty: In 2019 a cargo ship was stranded in the eastern part of the lagoon, near Chioggia.

Venice’s historical center, a fish-shaped island in the middle of the lagoon, is skirted by one of its deepest canals, the Canale della Giudecca, where cruise ships currently pass, docking in the island’s main port, the Marittima. But this route is narrow, and dangerously close to the city. In another incident in 2019, a cruise ship lost control and crashed into a dock , injuring at least four people.

“We see only two solutions. Either these huge ships are kept out of the lagoon altogether, or the industry adapts to our environment and sends smaller ships,” said Tommaso Cacciari, a spokesman for the No Big Ships Committee , a grass-roots organization that since 2012 has been fighting the presence of cruise ships in the lagoon.

A new home for ‘the monster’?

On paper, cruise ships are already banned from Venice, if not from the lagoon entirely. In 2012 Italy’s Parliament approved a bill that banned ships over 40,000 tons from parts of the lagoon close to Venice’s main island. But the same law also says that the ban will be applicable only after a viable alternative route is found. Almost a decade later, authorities still haven’t found that alternative.

“We are kept in a limbo,” said Francesco Galietti, the national director for Italy of the Cruise Lines International Association. He added that as soon as the Italian government finds a solution, the industry is ready to comply with whichever alternative route is chosen. “Any solution that makes sense would work for us. The only thing we care about is keeping Venice as a home port for the Eastern Mediterranean.”

But anti-cruise activists argue that it’s unfair that the current law is conditional on finding a new port: “It’s like having a monster knocking on your door and, rather than chasing him away, you worry about finding a new home for the monster before forcing him to leave,” said Ms. da Mosto, the activist.

There are two main proposals: rerouting vessels toward Marghera, the lagoon’s main commercial port on the mainland, or building a port outside of the lagoon.

The problem with Marghera, said a representative of Venice’s Port Authority, is that “it’s a commercial port for containers, it’s not built for passengers.” Also, since Marghera is inside the lagoon, critics say that rerouting cruise ships there will do little to contain environmental damages.

As for building another port altogether: On April 1, Italy’s government approved the allocation of funds for a feasibility study for such a project. But the process of developing the plans for the project alone is expected to last until mid 2022, the Port Authority said, leaving little hope that a new port would provide a solution in the short or even medium term.

Halting cruise traffic until a new port is ready would take an economic toll. Before the pandemic, the cruise industry employed, directly and indirectly, 4,200 people in the area, according to the Port Authority, and brought revenues of 280 million euro (over $332 million), although most of that money does not go to Venice’s historical center.

In the meantime, UNESCO is getting impatient. Last month the agency released a report urging Italy’s government to prioritize “the option of banning large ships from the Lagoon altogether” and to set a time frame to “temporarily reroute ships” toward Marghera or elsewhere.

The agency also announced on the same day that it is considering adding Venice to its list of endangered World Heritage sites. “The recommendations for inscription on the UNESCO List of World Heritage in Danger are not sanctions but alerts to find solutions,” a representative for the agency said in an email statement, mentioning “mass tourism, especially with the presence of cruise ships” as one of the organization’s concerns.

But several government officials, speaking anonymously because Italy’s factitious coalition government is divided on the topic, said they’re feeling pressured by UNESCO and, more broadly, by the negative publicity Venice received when cruise ships returned after the pandemic. Recent protests have brought the attention of the international media on the issue, and Venice is hosting a G20 summit between July 8 and 11.

The summit will provide an opportunity for a hiatus. Authorities have issued a temporary halt on large cruise ships until at least July 18, citing a combination of security measures ahead of the summit and the upcoming Festa del Redentore, the annual festival celebrating the end of the plague that devastated the island in 1576.

Sources in the Italian government say progressives in the coalition are trying to push an extension on the temporary halt until the Marghera port is at least partially ready and hope the international attention brought by UNESCO’s rebuke and by the upcoming summit will help them put pressure on the issue. “We’re feeling the eyes of the world pointed at us,” said one official.

THE WORLD IS REOPENING. LET’S GO, SAFELY. Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter : Each week you’ll receive tips on traveling smarter, stories on hot destinations and access to photos from all over the world.

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

Sail around the islands of Venice on this luxury river cruise

With its labyrinth of canals and elegant waterways, a luxury river cruise is the ideal way to explore the Venetian Lagoon, from the waterfront shops and colourful facades of the city to the islands of Mazzorbo, Burano and Torcello.

On this week-long cruise you'll see the lagoon's highlights and hidden gems, with exclusive access to top attractions. Step inside the incredible St Mark's Basilica for a lighting ceremony, venture inside the church on Torcello before it opens to the public, and enjoy VIP access to Doge's palace during an early morning visit.

Your home for the week is SS La Venezia, a luxurious ship decked out in fine Fortuny fabrics, Murano glass, and gilded accents, where you'll have all your meals included, including two gala dinners.

With large ocean lines now banned, Uniworld's small ship size gives guests an added level of exclusivity being the only luxury cruise line to not only enter, but also sail through the heart of Venice. As well as Venice, you'll get to know the islands of Burano, Mazzorbo, Torcello, and Murano, painting a complete picture of life in the Venetian Lagoon.

Departs every Sunday until 27 October 2024, 2025 dates also available, offer available on selected dates, please call for details

Reasons to book

Exclusive access

Italian dining

Sail in style

Murano glass blowing

Explore the lagoon

Choice of excursions

Price includes.

• Seven-night cruise in a river view stateroom on the impressive SS La Venezia
• Lavishly appointed river view staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets
• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• Captain's welcome and farewell receptions and gala dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water.
• Six days of excursions, including "Choice Is Yours" options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• Visit Doge's Palace, private after hours visit of Saint Marks Basilica
• Explore Mazzorbo and Burano
• Early access to Santa Maria Assunta, see the stunning 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgement without the crowds, with expert commentary from art historian guide.
• Watch a Murano glass blowing demonstration
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access
• Return flights from the UK
• All transfers on arrival and departure days
• All gratuities, both onboard and onshore
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Use of Nordic walking sticks
• Enjoy savings of £500pp
• £150 per booking on board credit, exclusively for our readers

Availability

* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a classic cabin, subject to availability and based on 6 October 2024 departure date. Price includes up to £1000pp saving, saving is capacity controlled, book by 31 May 2024. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. No single supplement. Deposit 15%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Uniworld River Cruises Limited.

Today you'll arrive at Venice Marco Polo airport, where you'll meet your transfer and later board SS La Venezia, your home for the week. You'll have some spare time to unpack and settle into your Riverview Stateroom before dinner.

After an early breakfast on board, you'll pay an early morning visit to Doge's Palace to explore this usually busy site in peace. You'll enter through a side door, which is usually reserved for dignitaries and VIPs.

Later, take a stroll through a traditional Venetian neighbourhood to see how local life unfolds in this fascinating city. Tonight, you'll attend a private after-hours lighting ceremony inside St Mark's Basilica without the crowds.

After breakfast on your ship, you'll have a choice to visit either Vicenza or Padua - both UNESCO World Heritage Cities.

In the afternoon, following your city tour, you'll reboard the ship for a scenic journey across the lagoon towards Burano and Mazzorbo.

This evening, your captain will host a special welcome reception and dinner on SS La Venezia.

This morning you'll visit Torcello's basilica, the oldest church in the Venetian lagoon. You'll be joined by an art historian who'll share an expert commentary as you explore. The doors open early for you, so you can see the stunning 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgement without the crowds-and with expert commentary from your art historian guide. There's time for coffee in a traditional osteria before returning to the ship.

In the afternoon you can decide whether to explore Burano or Mazzorbo or watch a glass-blowing demonstration on Murano.

Today, you'll admire the greatest sites of charming and coastal Chioggia, a seaside town south of Venice. Older than Venice, this enchanting town boasts picturesque canals, brightly-coloured buildings, and traditional markets. It's often nicknamed 'Little Venice' and has some similarities with its larger neighbour while being a lot less crowded.

Wander along the stylish seafront promenade and perhaps sample some of the mouthwatering seafood the town is known for.

This morning, you'll explore the Po Delta at the point where the Adriatic Sea meets the Po River on a sailing excursion. This area is lush with forests and green pinewoods, and has abundant flora and fauna including over 300 species of birds.

Later on you'll sail back to Venice over lunch.

Today you'll board a water taxi to glide through the Venice canals, arriving in style at the Rialto Bridge. From here you can visit Rialto market, take a walking tour or visit a mask atelier to see how the intricate masks worn at the Carnival of Venice are made.

A special Captain's Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

After a final breakfast on board, you'll disembark S.S. La Venezia and a transfer will take you to the airport for your flight back to London.

Accommodation

SS La Venezia

Glamorous Uniworld ship sailing the Po and Venice Lagoon

Paying homage to classic Venetian style, the S.S La Venezia is no ordinary cruise ship. This elegant vessel was renovated in 2020, bringing a new level of luxury and decadence to river sailing. With nods to its locale, the ship features Murano glass and splendid gilding that add to a sparkling onboard atmosphere. All the staterooms are river-facing with marble bathrooms and luxury amenities.

Brought to you by

To view Uniworld’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here .

The ultimate guide to a Grand Canal Cruise Venice

Things to do in Venice Grand Canal Venice

Venice’s most treasured boulevard, the Grand Canal is a 3 km strip of glistening water dotted with gondolas, vaporettos, tragettis and many other water crafts. Considered Venice’s ‘busiest street’,the Canalazzo as it is commonly called divides the city of Venice into 2 halves. This truly Grand canal serpentines from the central neighbourhoods of Venice and ends near the St Mark’s square. In its course, it passes under 4 bridges crossing buzzing markets, well-manicured gardens and regal canal-front restaurants, lined by grand museums, churches and iconic structures. In essence, the Grand Canal not only connects the top attractions of Venice, it is a top attraction by itself.

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

The grand canal of venice.

• Evolution of the Grand Canal - An architectural delight
• What are the best ways to cruise the Grand Canal
• Top 5 attractions along the Grand Canal
• Santa Maria della Salu

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

• Corner della Ca' Grande
• Learn about the 4 Bridges connecting the Grand Canal
• Ponte Di Rialto
• Ponte dell’Accademia
• Ponte degli Scalzi

Ponte della Costituzione

• Insider tips for the perfect Grand Canal ride

Have you ever seen pictures so postcard perfect that you end up convincing yourself it’s a painting? Grand Canal is one of those surreal picturesque beauties you can’t believe exists.

The Grand Canal is flanked by a total of 170 structures, a mix of Byzantine Romanesque buildings, Renaissance Palazzos and Neoclassical mansions. Pastel yellows, mellow greens and creamy orange buildings rising out of clear blue water, cobbles streets lining its periphery and tourists and locals whizzing past its shore is a basic bird’s eye view of the Grand Canal.

This bustling canal is never idle. Being the artery of Venice, you have water crafts shuttling people at the oddest of hours simply because there is no other way to get around this Floating City. Be it the bedecked gondolas, the public vaporettos, the private acquei or the tragettis, the Grand Canal is perpetually astir. Before you get on your chosen mode of transport to glide on the Grand Canal, take a few minutes to consume this brewing commotion.

If you happen to cruise the Grand Canal around sunset, you are in for a soulful treat. In the backdrop of cotton candy sky, the sun’s soft yellow hues creates a golden glow so magical that the city looks akin heaven. Adding on to this beauty is the stirring reflection of the grandeur structures on the emerald water you are cruising on. You are not likely to forget this scenario for a long long time.

Evolution Of The Grand Canal - An Architectural Delight

The Grand Canal is believed to be a branch of the ancient Brenta River that opens into a lagoon. In the 10th century, the Byzantine Empire settled and sprung on the banks of the Grand Canal. Trading flourished due to the easy accessibility via sea and most of those who stayed by the peripheries of the canal were established merchants and traders.

By the 12th century, houses along the canal became ornate with Byzantine arches and loggias. The oldest building along the canal namely Ca’ da Mosto is a 13th century palazzo which flaunts the Venetian-Byzantine style of architecture. Cut to 15th century when the European Gothic style of construction spread across Europe like blazing fire and Venice too succumbed. The Ca d’Oro( House of Gold) plastered in bright colours with skinny arches and intricate carvings is a fine blend of Venetian Gothic architecture by the Canal.

The 16th century saw the Renaissance architecture creeping into buildings around Venice. Pastels were replaced by clean whites and windows started becoming curvy from its pointed stance. The Palazzo Dario and Palazzo Grimani are fine examples of the Classical Renaissance architecture. During this period, having a palace facing the Grand Canal was considered a status symbol.

By the 17th century, the Grand Canal was crowded enough but certain Baroque styled constructions made its way to the pier. This prolific era saw the creation of the Santa Maria di Nazareth Church and the world renowned Santa Maria della Salute Basilica. These were perhaps the last few structures to adorn the Grand Canal because by the 18th century, construction along with Grand Canal saw a complete halt.

Ever since, it has just been restoration and preservation works to maintain these splendid structures that are the pride of Venice.

What Are The Best Ways To Cruise The Grand Canal?

Grand canal gondola ride with romantic serenade and dinner.

• Enjoy a traditional serenade on a Gondola ride on the Grand Canal and venture into the meandering venetian canals during your ride.
• Explore parts of the Grand Canal and other hidden canals under the magical evening sky
• Savor authentic Italian cuisine with fresh seafood and local delicacies at a fine dine restaurant
• Lay your eyes on important landmarks like the Accademia Bridge, La Fenice Theatre, St Mark's Basilica and more while you're traversing the Grand Canal.
• Be transported to a time in history without the rush and noise of vehicular traffic and simply the sounds of the water and people enjoying their evenings.

Grand Canal Gondola Ride With Serenade

• Explore the lifeline of the city, the web of canals that helped turn Venice into an economic and cultural powerhouse, elevating the city to the status of ‘La Dominante’.
• Enjoy 30 minutes of blissful cruise on the Grand Canal with your gondolier and guide enlightening you with lores, facts and stories of yore
• Entry for children below the age of 2 is free, as long as the child does not occupy a seat of his/her own. Children over the age of 2 pay full price.

Grand Canal Gondola Ride with Audio-Guide

• Enjoy the grandeur of Venice through its canals in the iconic gondola with skip the line tickets on a 30-minute shared gondola ride.
• Explore the waterways and the celebrated parts of the Grand Canal including the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Desdemona’s House and Mozart’s House.
• Immerse yourself in the opulence of Venice and learn about its vibrant history with a handy multilingual audio guide app.

Save €6 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code GOVENICE

Top 5 Attractions Along The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal stretches across the whole city in the shape of an inverted S. It is lined by numerous structures of importance like churches, government offices, museums, palaces, historical markets and more. Make sure you don't blink too often lest you miss a wonderous building. Amongst the umpteen structures, here's a list of 5 attractions along Grand Canal you absolutely cannot miss.

Santa Maria Della Saluta

The monumental baroque of Santa Maria Della Saluta , commonly known as the Salute is the most impressive structure on the Grand Canal. This church dedicated to the Lady of Health was erected as a votive offering for the city’s deliverance from the plague outbreak in 1630. The massive dome is sure to catch your attention from even the furthest point on the Grand Canal.

This is a modern art museum housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an 18th-century palace, which was home to the American heiress Peggy Guggenheim for almost 30 years. It is a low white contemporary structure that is always bustling with tourists and if you crane your neck enough, you may see a few prominent sculpts of art from around the world.

Palazzo Corner della Ca' Grand

Bang opposite the Peggy Guggenheim's Collection, you will see a fine example of Renaissance architecture. This is the Corner della Ca' Grande built in 1545 by Italian master sculptor Jacopo Sansovino, for the powerful Cornaro family. It was built in order to showcase the Carnaro family’s status. Notice the Ionic columns on the first floor and Corinthian columns on the second while you cross by this grand palazzo.

The House of Gold is an exemplary example of Venetian Gothic architecture and considered one of the most eye worthy sights on the Canal. Though the Ca' d'Oro has lost its original lustre, its shimmering mosaic and gold might cause you to flinch a little. The interiors of this masterpiece houses a museum which illustrates the lives of the Venetian Nobles during the Middle Ages.

San Stae Built in 1678, this church was built in shape of a Greek Cross and the facade that you see from the Grand Canal was built 30 years after its original construction by Domenico Rossi. This finely embellished roccocò styles structure was initially built as dedication to Saint Eustacchio. San Stae is a part of the Chorus Circuit and houses the tomb of the Mocenigo Family, an affluent Venetian family who gave 7 Doges to the Republic.

Learn about the 4 bridges connecting the grand canal.

On the Grand Canal, there are 4 bridges connecting parts of it for easy pedestrian access. Each of these have been built in different eras and are integral connecting points. Don't forget to notice these 4 canals during your cruise.

Ponte Di Rialto The Rialto Bridge is the first and oldest bridge connecting San Marco and San Polo. It took 3 years to erect this ornate structure engraved with Istrian stone reliefs depicting St Mark, St Theodore and the Annunciation.

Ponte dell’accademia this bridge is a wooden bridge which derives its name from the accademia galleries close by and connects dorsoduro and saint mark's district and is very close to the peggy guggenheim museum as well. ponte dell’accademia has a terrific vantage point overlooking the grand canal and is hence considered a shutterbug's paradise., ponte degli scalzi ponte degli scalzi translates to bridge of barefoot monks and is a stone arch bridge connecting two frequented areas - santa croce and cannaregio.if you arrive by bus or train you are likely to use this bridge to move into the city as it connects the santa lucia railway station and piazzale roma bus station..

TThe last and latest bridge connecting the Grand Canal is Ponte della Costituzione commonly called Calatrava Bridge. It crossed the Grand Canal at the terminus of 3 modes of transport - Buses, Boats and Railways. It is a long, sweeping curve of glass and steel designed to complement both the historic buildings on the Piazzale Roma side of the canal and the 1950s modernity of Venice's main railway station. Though it is considered the gateway to Venice, it has received much criticism as it is not luggage and wheelchair friendly.

Insider Tips For The Perfect Grand Canal Ride

• The Grand Canal is lovely year around, both by day and night. So whenever you go, rest assured it will be a feast for your senses.
• Booking tickets online will save you the hassle of standing in mile long queues.
• Combo tickets with a serenade, dinner or walking tour works out economically and enhances your experience further.
• Taking the public vaporettos to cruise the Grand Canal for pleasure is least advised due to the incessant stops and crowd.
• A private taxi, a shared boat for your family/friends alone or gondolas are the best modes to cruise the Grand Canal as you can travel into lesser visited parts of the Canal and experience calming solace.
• It's best to avoid cruising the Grand Canal during the community hours in the morning (7 am - 9 am) and evening( 6 pm - 7 pm).

FAQs: Grand Canal Venice

Why is the grand canal in venice famous.

The Grand Canal is famous worldwide  for the centuries-old palaces which stand on both sides of the water . Most of them date from the 13th to the 18th century, a time in which existed the Venetian Republic. These magnificent buildings show the wealth Venetian families had at the time of the powerful Venetian Republic.

What is the Grand Canal called in Venice?

The Grand Canal of Venice, also known as  Canalazzo , is the most important waterway sweeping through this amazing city. While the ancient canal measures 3.8 kilometres long, it snakes through Venice in a large S shape and splits the city in two sides.

Where is the Grand Canal Venice?

Grand Canal, Italian Canale Grande, main waterway of  Venice, Italy , following a natural channel that traces a reverse-S course from San Marco Basilica to Santa Chiara Church and divides the city into two parts.

Where does the Venice Grand Canal start and end?

The Grand Canal, also known as canalazzo is the main channel of transportation in Venice. It  starts from the Saints Mark's basin and ends at a lake near the Santa Lucia railway station .

Where does the poop in Venice go?

Most of Venice's sewage goes  directly into the city's canals . Flush a toilet, and someone crossing a bridge or cruising up a side canal by gondola may notice a small swoosh of water emerging from an opening in a brick wall.

Can you swim in Venice canals?

So, can you swim in the Venice canals? The simple answer is:  no, you are not allowed to swim in the Venice canals , nor in any other place in the historic center of Venice.

Can you walk along the Grand Canal in Venice?

Either side of the Grand Canal private buildings front the waterfront,  there is no footpath alongside the Grand Canal . You can walk between Santa Lucia Railway Station and St Mark's Square and view the Rialto Bridge on the way, but your only glimpse of the Grand Canal will be at Rialto Bridge.

Why is the Grand Canal important?

The Grand Canal  played a huge role in reunifying north and south China . The canal was built by conscripted laborers and connected the Yellow River in the north with the Yangtze River in the south, which made it much easier to transport grain from the south to the centers of political and military power in north China.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

Good or bad? The truth about the cruise ships in Venice, Italy

Protests against cruise ships in Venice made it to the world’s largest and most reputable news networks many times between 2010 and 2020.

The relationship between Venice, the Venetians, and the cruise ships docking in Venice is a very sensitive subject, so it is critical to analyze and break it down in order to understand it better.

As one might expect, when it comes to Cruise Ships or “Grandi Navi” (literally “Big Ships”), Venetians are divided into two groups: those in favour of Big Ships and those opposed to Big Ships entering the Venetian Lagoon.

Both groups have reasons to justify their positions, so we’ll stick to listing facts as the best way to discuss this difficult issue.

When it comes to cruise ships in Venice, size matters

In most cases, the disparity in size between the ships and Venice creates the most direct and strong impression on onlookers.

Is this perception based on facts? Are cruise ships truly too big in comparison to Venice?

The size of Venice and its Lagoon, and the number of inhabitants

A few things to know to understand the (tiny) size of Venice:

• The total area of Venice is slightly less than 8km2, roughly twice the size of Central Park in New York.
• The Saint Mark’s Bell Tower, Venice’s tallest building, stands 99 meters tall.
• The majority of buildings in Venice are under 20 meters tall.
• The lagoon in which Venice is located has an average depth of around 1.2 m.
• Venice has a population of fewer than 50.000 inhabitants.

The size of cruise ships

Here’s some information to understand the size of modern cruise ships:

• Since the first purpose-built cruise ship in 1970, ship sizes have steadily increased.
• The first cruise ship, named “Song of Norway,” was built in 1970. It was 188m long, 24m wide, weighed 18.000t, and could accommodate 1.100 people.
• The “Harmony of the Seas,” built in 2016, is 362.15 meters long, 66 meters wide, and 70 meters tall, with a draught of 9.3 meters, a gross tonnage of 226.963 tons, and a capacity of over 9,000 people. The gross tonnage has increased by more than 1300 percent compared to the “Song of Norway,” or 500 percent compared to the Titanic.
• 38 of the 47 new cruise ships scheduled to be built by 2021 will weigh more than 100,000 tons.

A first decree, in 2013, prohibited ships with a gross tonnage above 96.000t from passing through the Saint Mark’s Basin.

If you’re wondering how big a ship of 96.000t could be, consider the MSC Magnifica. This ship measures 294 meters in length, 32 meters in width, has an 8-meter draft, can carry up to 4.600 passengers,… and is just under the 96.000 tons limit!

Finally, in 2021, the Italian Government passed a new decree that prohibited ships above 25.000 tons to pass right in front of Saint Mark’s in Venice.

Want more tips, tools and stories from Venice, Italy?

We're on a mission to make it easy and fun to discover and support the authentic Venice. Try our email and see for yourself!

Thanks for signing up! If there is no e-mail in your inbox in the next hour, remember to check your spam folder and to add us to your contact list. Thank you! Get access to our live videos and even more content: like us on Facebook to add daily goodness to your feed. A presto!

Oops! We're sorry, something went wrong. We'll fix it soon. In the mean time, you can like us on Facebook to stay in touch!

By signing up you agree with Venezia Autentica's privacy policy

While the size of cruise ships is immediately apparent to our senses, their impact on the local environment cannot be seen with the naked eye but can be measured.

The city of Venice is currently not compliant with EU directives regarding the location and number of air quality control centres. There should be more air quality control centres in Venice than there currently are.

Nonetheless, the data available already provides an idea of the impact and effects of pollution caused by large ships.

Venice background pollution

Consider two important facts to understand many Venetians’ confusios about Venice’s extremely poor air quality:

• The entire surface of Venice is inaccessible to cars, making it the world’s largest pedestrian city.
• Venice is the Italian leader in ecological mobility due to its public vs. private transportation ratio: a much higher percentage of people use public transportation compared to the rest of Italy, reducing each individual’s environmental footprint.

Nonetheless, the background pollution in Venice’s air is higher than it should be. The main contributors are public transportation boats and sightseeing boats known as “granturismo”: water transportation regulations are far laxer than those on land!

Indeed, maritime companies are permitted to use low-cost fuel with a high sulfur content (1.500 times that permitted for land vehicles!) and are under no obligation to use a particulate filter. Filters that reduce emissions by 90-99% would cost 5.000 € per boat, a sum that could be repaid with less than 600 one-way tickets.

The impact of cruise ships on the air quality in Venice

According to the Italian Senate, […the regional agency for environmental prevention and protection has demonstrated that the cruise ships traffic in Venice is the major responsible for atmospheric pollution …], [… every ship pollutes as much as 14.000 cars , also while being docked. Moreover, an estimation performed by the Veneto Cancer Institute states that “ in Venice and Mestre there is a statistically significant excess of lungs cancer compared to the rest of Italy “].

This is an extract of Act n. 1-00199, published on the 13th of December 2013 by the Senate of the Italian Republic .

It is worth noting that this refers to fine dust : the situation for other highly polluting elements is even worse!

Official measurements in Venice are performed in Sacca Fisola, a low-populated area upwind of the harbour.

EU directives , however, impose at least two monitoring centres in the heart of populated areas , and Venice doesn’t comply with the law on this matter.

Ambientalists turned towards the environmental organization NABU , to ask for measurements to be performed in the heart of the city, which is downwind the harbour: those values turned out to be  5 to 6 times higher than the already alarmingly high measurements in Sacca Fisola.

NABU’s measurement registered both the background pollution in different parts of the city and the spike concurrently to the passage of cruise ships . The level of PM 2,5 after the passing of a cruise ship Nave reached 150 times the level of PM 2,5 of clean air .

“I know there are regulations out there!”, you might think. Yes, there are, but not for everybody.

Since the enforcement of the standard Euro V in 2009 , the max amount of sulfurs in fuel was reduced to 10 ppm, or 0,001% .

That’s great! This, however, counts only for land vehicles such as cars and trucks.

The fuel allowed on ships at sea can  contain up to 3,5% sulfur : that is 3.500 more sulfur than the one allowed in fuel for land vehicles.

While moored , ships are allowed to use fuel with up to “only” 1,5% sulfur, which is still 1.500 times more polluting than the fuel used by cars and trucks .

Do ships burn fuel while docked in the harbour?

Yes, they do, because the port in Venice (as most ports around the world) can’t provide enough electricity for keeping the services and amenities running onboard the ships. Therefore, ships keep their engines running to produce electricity.

A cruise ship docked in Venice keeps the motor running 24h a day and burning a fuel that is 1.500 (one-thousand five-hundred) times more polluting than car fuel. 

Many nations worldwide, including Italy, lack laws enforcing the use of filers on cruise ships. As a consequence, many cruise ships don’t make use of particulate filters and catalyst converters , which would decrease emissions by (over) 90%.

The cost of filters, called scrubbers, for a medium-sized cruise ship is around 1 million € . Considering that the average cost of a cruise ship is around 350 million, the cost for the purchase of filters would represent just  0,3% of the total cost. 

There are two main reasons for which cruise companies chose not to make use of scrubbers :

• Filters would take up space that companies prefer to reserve for entertainment instead.
• The current laws allow cruise ships to approach the coast even without filters if they have “clean” fuel . Clean fuel on ships, however, contains up to 1500 times more sulfur than land fuel does.

In order to answer the concerns raised by Venetians regarding the pollution caused by cruise ships, companies have signed and publicized their “Venice Blue Flag” voluntary agreement , with the promise to make use of BTZ fuel when approaching Venice. BTZ fuel is an oil with less than 0,1% sulfur , far below the Italian national requirement of <1,5% when in urban areas.

We salute with excitement such a of voluntary agreement!

Unfortunately, despite their announcements, upon inspection by the port authorities companies have been fined for not even respecting the national requirements and using instead fuel containing 2,8% sulfur  (Venice, 18/07/2015). How reliable!

Let’s make this last information very clear:

• Cars fuel has a 0,001% limit
• The Italian Law imposes a 1,5% limit on ships within 12 miles from the coast (the limit raises to 3,5% beyond 12 miles)
• Cruise ship companies promised to respect a voluntary 0,1% limit

But upon inspection, companies were found to be using fuel with 2,8% sulfur, a value 2.800 times higher than the one allowed for cars and well above the Italian Law.

Effects on the local environment

Besides the aforementioned air pollution, there are several other effects caused directly by Cruise Ships or human intervention looking to accommodate ever growing cruise ships in the lagoon.

Effects on Venice

Three main impacts of cruise ships in Venice are the displacement of water and the consequent erosion of the lagoon, the corrosion caused by pollutant, and the digging of canals in the Venetian Lagoon which is a very delicate environment.

• Displacement is the mass of water moved by the submerged part of the ship, and it’s the parameter that allows a ship to float . Gross Tonnage, which is what the Laws refer to, is the measure of the volumes of a ship, not its mass. There is no direct relationship between Gross Tonnage and Displacement. However, the displacement in cruise ships is roughly around 50% of its gross tonnage : a 100.000t ship will move 50 million litres of water. Even though performed relatively slowly, the movement of such a massive amount of water erodes the hundreds and even thousands of years old foundations of the palaces and the streets of Venice. Big ships are not the only cause of this phenomenon, of course. Heavy (and too-fast-moving) motor traffic is to be blamed also for the holes (yes, real holes) being carved in the foundations.
• The pollution  caused by the fuel used by cruise ships as well as motorboats mixes with the air produces NO2, CO2, and SO2 which damage  severely not only the “natural” environment and the health of living beings but also corrodes severely the works of art and the palaces of Venice.
• The heavy digging of the canals to let Big Ships into the Venetian Lagoon increases the amount of water that enters and exits the lagoon during tides . The direct and most obvious effect on the city of Venice is the increase in number and intensity of High Waters, or Acque Alte , which partially flooded the city.

Effects on the Lagoon

We mentioned above the consequences that digging canals have on the city of Venice. What were the effects of human intervention on the lagoon ?

• The lagoon used to have an average depth of 40cm until less than 100 years ago. The digging and deepening of canals led to the erosion of 70% of the natural sediments and an increase in depth to an average 1,2m … that’s an increase of +200%.
• The increased amount of water led to the erosion of the sandbanks of the lagoon. Sandbanks are home to Venetian wildlife : fishes, birds, small rodents, and plants. Since the digging of the canals started, the habitat of local species has decreased drastically .

Dangers and risks of collisions

The most immediate fear of Venetians and Venice lovers when it comes to the passing of Big Ships in the heart of Venice, is the risk of collision .

The rules established to reduce this risk are very strict and applied with great attention:

• Every cruise ship is halted at the entrance of the lagoon of Venice, is boarded by two captains of the Venice Port and is manoeuvred all the way until it is safely docked in the harbour.
• Every cruise ship is preceded and followed by two tugboats that can  intervene in the case of an emergency .

These rules have indeed granted great safety to the city of Venice over the years, but have not prevented entirely accidents. Some of them could have been devastating to the city.

Will cruise ships tragedies no longer occur in Venice?

No, only forbidding cruise ships to pass in the basin of Saint Mark will assure Venice to be completely safe from cruise ship related accidents.

Just like everything else, from trains to planes, the risks are calculated, reduced as much as possible, and often prevented . Yet, accidents do happen , it’s a matter of statistics and probability. Whether a mechanical or electrical dysfunction, terrorism, human error or deliberate choice, tragedies are a reality.

In the past years, between 500 and 600 cruise ships docked yearly in Venice. This means that cruise ships cross the Basin of Saint Mark between 1.000 and 1.200 times every year , just in front of the Doge Palace on one side, and San Giorgio on the other side. In 20 years , big ships will have passed 20 to 24.000 times through the heart of Venice . One, only one, single accident in the Basin is one of those 2o.000+ crossings could mean a tragedy from which Venice would never recover.

The possibility of accidents is small , but the consequences would be devastating .

Up to this point, all considerations speak clearly against Big Ships.

Why then, are there people in favor of cruise ships?

Impact of the cruise ship business on the local Economy

The Venice Cruise Ship Terminal employs 4-5.000 workers locally , which is over 4% of the workers of Venice , and a total of 7-8.000 workers in all of Italy. The economic impact of the port represents 3-4% of the Venice municipality GDP .

Venice acts mainly as a homeport . A homeport is a port from which a cruise ships’ journey start or ends. Cities that have home ports benefit from greater economic expenses than cities working as transit ports do since it is more likely for cruisers to be spending one night in town before or after their cruise. In 2015, the port of Venice has welcomed close to  1,6 million passengers.  The above data and its implications were taken from a  report about the benefits of the port , commissioned and funded by the Venetian port itself.

On the other hand, since Venice has experienced a sudden increase of cruise passengers , an overwhelming number of souvenirs shops and low-price-and-quality restaurants have opened , targeting day (or hour) trippers. This kind of business has contributed greatly to the increase of rents and the disappearance of many local shops and activities , as well as artisans’ shops and authentic traditions.

Impact of the Cruise Ships on the National Economy

An important business connected to the cruise ships industry is the making of these big ships . The Italian public company Fincantieri is one of the biggest shipbuilding companies in the world , specializing in cruise ships, warships, and 60+m yachts. It has several construction yards in Italy, as well as in the U.S., Brazil, Norway, Romania, and Vietnam. One major construction point is in Marghera (Venice), and it gives work to thousands of workers and 350 businesses. The number of subcontractors increases this industry’s relevance even further.

Fincantieri in 2015 employed directly 7.700 people in Italy and over 22.000 people all around the world, generating revenues of 4,2 Billion €. 

It is clear that a part of Italy’s economic interests and job opportunities are tightly bound to the cruise ships business .

Current situation and Government interventions

Laws and decrees.

Technically, since 2013 a Decree called Clini-Passera prohibits big ships over 40.000t to pass by the basin of Saint Mark . Only technically though, since the decree also requires the presence of alternative routes for ships over 40.000t, in order to be effective . As long as the city of Venice will  not provide alternatives , this limit is automatically increased to 96.000t . Before 2013, the upper limit used to be 130.000t.

This situation, however, is probably better than if the 40.000t limit would be respected since, currently, the only ships small enough to respect that limitation are  old ships with obsolete engines . These “small” big ships might indeed look less invasive to the eye, yet they pollute the air more than bigger and more modern ships do .

Until early 2021, the only limitations to cruise ships passing through the basin of Saint Mark are the use of fuel with less than 1,5% sulfur (1500 times higher than the percentage allowed on land) and a gross tonnage below 96.000 tons .

That did not satisfy civil society groups who demanded cruise ships be banned from passing through the heart of Venice. Indeed, ships up to 96.000 tons still represent a massive size compared to the city’s dimensions.

At the same time, the 96.000t limit did not satisfy cruise companies, since most of the new ships being built were over 100.000 tons and wouldn’t be allowed to pass in front of Venice . Seeing Venice from above was considered to be the highlight of the cruise ship journey, and is, therefore, the strongest cruise ship ticket selling argument .

Finally, in 2021, things changed: From the 1st of August 2021, ships weighing with a size above 25.000 tons can no longer pass in front of Saint Mark’s Square!

In 2021 some things changed for Cruise Ships in Venice

A new Italian Law passed in July 2021 stated that ships above 25.000 tons can no longer pass in front of Saint Mark’s Square starting August 1st 2021!

This, however, does not mean that cruise ships can no longer enter the Venetian Lagoon.

On the contrary, the local and national administrations are considering increasing the width and depth of an existing canal inside the Venetian Lagoon to let much bigger cruise ships dock in Marghera, nearby Venice.

Therefore, while we welcome the new Law, it only solves one problem: the risk of collisions.

The huge impacts of cruise ships on our delicate local environment and the enormous pollution caused are not addressed at all.

Projects and proposals

Despite the new law of 2021, the Italian Government is taking into account three proposals to improve to the current situation.

Two of them, called Contorta Project and Trezze Project , focus on the digging of existing canals in the Venetian lagoon ; The third, called the Venis Cruise Project , focuses on building a new docking terminal at the entrance of the Lido channel connecting the Adriatic sea to the lagoon.

Increasing the width and depth of canals in the Venetian lagoon is fiercely opposed  by environmental groups since it will alter and worsen, once more, the fragile state of the Venetian lagoon . In order to make big ships pass, the canals would be dug a dozen meters deep, allowing a much greater amount of seawater to enter or exit the lagoon during tides. The digging of one of these canals would result in the destruction of even more sandbanks , or “barene”, and an  increase in the frequency and intensity of High Water , or Acqua Alta, in Venice.

The creation of a new docking terminal is opposed for several reasons. From a logistic point of view , the common remark is that it will be necessary to create yet another means of transportation for millions of people from the cruise terminal to the centre of Venice. Cruise ships oppose this project. A new docking terminal would prevent companies to sell the view-of-Venice-from-above , and would spoil the investments made during the past decade to become the majority shareholder of the Venice Port.

A further project suggests cruise ships should make use of the already existing “oil canal” or “Canale dei Petroli”, which is used since 1969 by mercantile ships to reach the industries of Marghera. This project would require no intervention on the Venetian Lagoon, but the making instead of a new Port in Marghera and the conversion of the current Port into social housing. The Marghera Port would be the only location adapt for cold-ironing, or   shore connection , providing enough electrical power to docked ships, making it possible for their main and auxiliary engines to be turned off, dramatically cutting the cost of air pollution.

We tried to provide you with plenty of information to describe the relationship between Venice and the Big Ships. Whichever is your position on this matter, we respect it.

The opinion of others

We understand the problems that would be caused by posing a limitation to cruise ships, and we understand that several people are bound to this business and depend on it. We respect those who strongly support the cruise ship business as it currently is.

We are aware that many people depend on the activities coming from the Venice Port , and that the ever-growing protests of the local communities are felt like a great threat and danger to their jobs.

In a land where unemployment is high, pay is low, and social help is less-than-ideal, this is exactly the leverage used by those who could make a change but wish instead to keep things as they currently are,  only to increase their profit despite damaging severely the health of the local population and the environment.

Our Opinion

We are very critical of the current situation.

We just can not and will not accept the great, constant and terrible pollution caused by these ships and the promotion of mass tourism that contributes to the disappearing of local businesses and authentic shops in favour of mass-produced plastic souvenirs that target day-trippers.

We understand and respect the importance of this business and the jobs it generates  but we believe it must change in order to respect something that matters more than the profit of a few: the health of all the Venetians, the protection of Venice, and the respect of the environment.

We have a dream

We wish for the preservation of the current jobs , but we also wish for some major changes that will respect Venice, the lagoon, and the Venetians.

Which changes do we believe should absolutely be undertaken ?

• Ships should be obliged to use filters .
• Close to cities, fuel allowed on ships should respect the same parameters as the one allowed on land .
• Once docked , ships should switch off their motors and receive electrical power from the Port itself.
• Ships should not pass in front of Saint Mark . Entertainment and profit should not win over safety.
• No new canals should be dug or enlarged . The Venetian Lagoon is delicate and should be preserved.

We believe in our dreams, and we will try to push for a change in every way we can.

Congratulations on making it through this long and technical article!

If you’re eager to learn more about Venice as well as to find great information to plan your visit to the city while making a positive impact on the local community, check out the following resources:

I'm visiting Venice. Why should I follow your recommendations?

The way you visit Venice has an impact both on the quality of your experience and on Venice itself.   Chilling, exploring , shopping , eating and drinking where the locals do, can make a huge impact both on the memories you bring home and on the local economy and community.

POPULAR POSTS LIKE THIS

• Best Places where to eat and drink like a local in Venice
• Interactive map of the best authentic local businesses and places where to eat & drink in Venice
• Why eating and drinking at authentic local businesses matters

Liked this article? Don’t forget to share the love!  

Home >> Venice and Venetians  >> Venice Explained  >> You’re Here

Facts, Curiosities, History of Venice, Italy

Murano Glass: the definitive guide to Venice most famous art

How Was Venice Built: An Engineering Marvel

Everything about the amazing Grand Canal in Venice, Italy [ARTICLE + 360° VIDEO]

More about life in Venice, Italy

Go to Venice & Venetians >>

• September 25, 2022

You might also like

From a local event to an international rowing appointment in Venice, Italy: La Vogalonga [VIDEO+PHOTO]

Acqua Bassa, the water ‘issue’ you never thought Venice could have

The Amerigo Vespucci is back in Venice

• ONLY PRIVATE TOURS AND ACTIVITIES 

We make it easy to experience Venice with local guides and experts

• 100% GUARANTEED LOCAL AND IMPACTFUL

Looking for things to do in Venice? Experience Venice with a local!  

We’d love to chat.

Let us know

how we can help

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Norwegian Cruise Line Is Cutting Venice From Its Itineraries — What to Know If the City Is on Your 2024 or 2025 Itinerary

Norwegian will modify its 2024 and 2025 itineraries, replacing it with other stops in Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia.

Bruce Hood/Getty Images

Norwegian Cruise Line is saying arrivederci to Venice, cutting the canal city from its cruise itineraries in 2024 and 2025.

The cruise line confirmed to Travel + Leisure it will no longer include stops in Venice as part of its plans years after the city declared its waterways a “national monument” and banned large cruise ships. Since then, Norwegian said it has been ferrying visitors to the famed city by tender, but it was no longer a viable option.

“Due to the restrictions on large cruise ships to sail into the Venice Lagoon and dock at the usual piers, large cruise ships calling to Venice are required to anchor outside of the lagoon and utilize tender boats to access the Port of Venice,” a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson told T+L. “While we have made every effort possible to maintain these calls to Venice, the tender operation and overall experience this provides our guests has fallen short of the standard we aim to deliver.”

Going forward, Norwegian will modify its 2024 itineraries that previously included Venice, replacing it with port visits to either Ravenna , Italy; Rijeka and Zadar, Croatia; or Koper, Slovenia. In 2025, the cruise line will replace stops in Venice with either a sea day or another port, depending on availability.

“We recognize that Venice is one of the world’s greatest destinations, cherished by both our guests and crew, and as such acknowledge the inconvenience and frustration this disruption may cause,” the spokesperson added. “We appreciate the understanding of our loyal guests and travel agent partners.”

Major cruise lines have utilized different options to get guests to Venice. MSC Cruises, for example, stops in Marghera, which sits just across the water from the city. Others, like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, stop in Trieste, which sits on the border near Slovenia. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises both stop in Ravenna, about a 2 hour 30 minute drive from Venice.

Venice has been making efforts to limit over-tourism for years. The city, which has received multiple reprieves from being included on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites in danger, also plans to implement a tourist fee for day visitors this spring and aims to limit the size of tour groups allowed this coming summer.

Related Articles

Venice, Italy – Cruise Port Guide

Discover the insider secrets of the port of Venice, Italy! The port is located on beautiful waterways that entice thousands of tourists annually. In this blog post, we’ll help you quickly explore and navigate the Venice cruise port so you can fully appreciate its beauty and history.

With our guide, you’ll find essential information about the Venice cruise terminal amenities, transportation options from the port to popular city attractions like muscle-powered gondolas, budget advice, and more! When visiting this fantastic European destination, prepare for a luxurious voyage filled with culture and breathtaking sights.

About the Port

The Venice cruise port is one of Europe’s busiest and most popular cruise ports. Strategically located in three distinct areas, the port serves an array of international travelers each year with multiple terminals to meet their needs.

The main cruise terminal is Venice Passenger Terminal (VPT), near the Sestiere di San Marco Bay across from Piazza San Marco. Other nearby terminals include Venice Trieste and Imperial Marino Veneziano port Mary & Ravenna – both within walking distance of the city center for tourists looking to explore all that Venice offers by foot or public transportation.

As well as boasting some of Italy’s best architecture, attractions, and unique cultural events, 32 waterways containing more than 400 bridges make it a must-see travel destination!

Cruise Terminal Information

Venezia Terminal Passeggeri S.P.A. manages the Venice cruise port and operates three locations: the Venice Passenger Terminal (VPT), Terminal Venezia Passeggeri, and Marittima.

The Port is connected to the historic city of Venice—“La Serenissima” or “The Most Serene City”—through a spectacular 4-km causeway along an island archipelago known as La Giudecca consisting of eight separate islands.

At these three ports, travelers can access maps, bus rides, and shuttle services for transportation into the city. These services run frequently from March until November to various points in the old Italian city, including tourist sites such as St Mark’s Basilica .

Additionally, it is possible to take any of these modes of transport further away from the Venetian Lagoon to other destinations, such as Mestre Railway Station and Marco Polo Airport, for those who want to explore even further afield or return home more conveniently.

How To Get Around

Getting around Venice is relatively easy, with walking being the most popular way of transport. Due to its small size and pedestrian-friendly layout, it is possible to access many attractions by foot with little difficulty.

When visiting the city, make sure you have a map to get your bearings—this will allow for efficient use of time and money as landmarks such as San Marco Square are within walking distance of each other.

If located close enough, visitors may also choose to bike across bridges at sunset for breathtaking views over gondolas passing below them on cozy canal rides– truly an unforgettable experience!

Things To Do

As a cruise guest in Venice, you’ll immerse yourself in a beautiful city full of rich history and culture awaiting exploration. From sightseeing to visiting landmarks like St Mark’s Square, don’t miss out on these activities in the most romantic city on the planet.

You can also take a Vaporetto or gondola ride through picturesque canals and explore lesser-known neighborhoods. At local markets such as Rialto Bridge Market or Sant’Angelo Market, you’ll be able to get acquainted with Venetian cuisine and products.

For those looking for a unique experience, taking a water taxi around the Grand Canal in Venice offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the unforgettable view. Disembarking at Trinity Bridge allows for a tour of Basilica San Marco, which holds great significance in Christian history.

Beach Pass Information

Venice’s beaches are accessible with a beach pass. Beach passes provide access to the city’s most beautiful spots and famous clubs, allowing travelers to enjoy the sun and sand while saving money on daily entrance fees.

Visitors must purchase a one-day ticket from an authorized vendor or tourist information office in Venice to obtain a beach pass. This ticket typically costs around €15 per day and allows entry into all public beaches throughout the city—though there are occasionally restrictions for specific locations.

Local Cuisine & Best Places to Eat

Venice has unique culinary experiences and offerings, from traditional Italian dishes to regional Venetian specialties. Venetian cuisine is known for its rice dishes, pasta, seafood, and other savory flavors made with fresh local ingredients.

For the ultimate gastronomic experience in Venice, dine at one of two acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants or visit one of the Bib Gourmand eateries, which offer good food at reasonable prices.

There’s Something for Everyone!

Explore Venice like a local by sampling local osterias and bacari—traditional eateries serving authentic Venetian fare and wine and cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

Visit tiny romantic trattorias (family-run restaurants) to try classic Tuscan dishes such as ribollita or Lampreia stew cooked over an open fire or explore bustling outdoor markets to buy local handmade cheeses served up with fragrant bread still warm from the oven.

Shopping Opportunities

The Venice cruise port offers various shopping opportunities, from quaint boutiques to chic designer labels. Behind the Correr Museum , well-known luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel can be found selling their designer clothes, shoes, and purses.

Local Currency

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to stay a while, it’s essential to understand the local currency used at the Venice cruise facility. The official currency in Italy—and indeed all of Europe—is the Euro (EUR). In 2002, when European nations adopted the single currency, Italy removed its former national currency, the Italian lira, from circulation.

ATMs and foreign exchange bureauarend near the St. Mark’s Square area and other central locations for visitors who want to convert their country’s money into Euros. Cash is still preferred over debit/credit cards, so keeping an emergency supply of euros on hand is always helpful!

Safety Travel Tips

Cruising is a fun and exhilarating experience, but keeping yourself safe should be your top priority when visiting the Venice cruise port terminal. It can be easy to become vulnerable in crowded areas full of unfamiliar people.

The best way to guard against potential danger or theft is to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid taking risks. Dress conservatively to avoid drawing attention, keep valuables hidden away, never share cabs with strangers, and travel in groups when walking around.

Finally, if possible, leave expensive jewelry back on the ship so that if anything does happen, you won’t lose any irreplaceable items during your trip.

Best Time To Visit

Visiting Venice is always an incredible experience, but the best time varies greatlyPlanan your trip between May and October for optimal weather conditions and fewer crowds.

July and August in Venice are hectic for tourists due to increased day-trippers and cruise ship passengers taking holiday during this time. Additionally, Venetians traditionally take a two-month vacation that falls around these times, leading even more people into the city and making it crowded and hot.

If you want a less crowded experience, consider visiting Venice in April or May, where the temperatures are pretty warm.

Popular Cruise Lines That Visit Venice Cruise Port

Cruise passengers can explore Venice’s wonders through several famous cruise lines that call the port home. Celebrity Cruises , for starters, offers roundtrip itineraries from this port to premiere destinations in the Adriatic Sea, such as Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania.

Royal Caribbean is another must-visit for anyone looking for unforgettable journeys around Italy’s stunning cities—from taste-testing pizza in Sorrento or shopping along Rialto Bridge’s local markets, these ships host unique activities ideal for young couples looking to relax on the sun deck or adults keen on exploring nearby towns during shore excursions.

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Venice cruise port, such as the difference between Venice Ravenna and Venice Trieste, here!

Can you walk into Venice from a cruise ship?

Yes, you can easily walk into Venice from the cruise port follow the signs and take the shuttle that services passengers arriving at the Vienna cruise port. The port is only a five-minute walk away.

Where do the cruise ships dock in Venice?

The cruise ships in Venice dock at several locations along the city’s waterways. These ports include the Venice Passenger Terminal (VPT) at Marittima, located near St Mark’s Basin and connected to the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea via its Porto di Lido entrance.

What is the difference between Venice Ravenna and Venice Trieste?

Venice and Trieste are two departure ports for cruises in Italy, although Ravenna is another option that often comes into consideration. An important point to note is the distance from Venice to Trieste is approximately 160 km northeast.

Booking Information

If you’re planning a cruise ship trip to this gorgeous location, reserving tickets in advance makes your journey much easier and faster.

The first step to ensuring you gain access to the port quickly is booking a ticket online through Skiptheline . Romantic Eastern Mediterranean cruises are often booked through these outlets, ensuring travelers have exciting itineraries available immediately when stepping onto their magnificent destination!

The Venice port guide is valuable for anyone cruising to or from Venice, Italy. It provides essential information about the port, including where cruise ships dock, amenities at the passenger terminal, transportation options into the city, shopping opportunities, local cuisine, and more.

So take advantage of this comprehensive guide today—it could be just what you need for an unforgettable stay in one of Europe’s oldest cities!

Rhodes, Greece – Cruise Port Guide

Are you planning a cruise stop in Rhodes, Greece? The island’s history and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for any Mediterranean voyage. This comprehensive guide to the Rhodes Cruise Port is your key to everything this port has to offer, from how to navigate the terminal, fun activities around town, tasty local …

Mykonos, Greece – Cruise Port Guide

Planning a trip to Mykonos Island on a cruise ship and feeling overwhelmed? Did you know your ship docks in Tourlos, the new port in beautiful Mykonos, Greece? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll simplify your travel planning by providing all the necessary information – from getting around to must-visit spots. Ready for an epic adventure? …

Funchal, Portugal – Cruise Port Guide

Wondering where to dock during your next cruise trip? Funchal, one of the most visited ports on South Europe’s Atlantic coast, might be the ideal answer. This guide will give you everything you need about the Funchal Cruise Port, from terminal information and local attractions to currency details and safety tips. Sit tight as we …

About Fred Dean

I've been cruising for 15 years, and I can't get enough.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• 1-877-932-4259
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Navigating Venice's Canals: Gondolas and the Vaporetto

Read on for tips on the Venice canals. Take a gondola, one of the most popular things to do in Venice, or hop on the Vaporetto and cruise up the Grand Canal.

With all the water flowing through Venice, it’s no wonder that boats are so important to residents and visitors alike. Here’s a rundown of two of the most popular vessels you can climb aboard to experience the canals of Venice.

Learn more about  Mediterranean cruises  

Traditional Venice Gondola Ride

The gondola could be a symbol for Venice. One of the most popular things to do in Venice, Italy, these traditional vessels were once the primary means of navigating the city’s maze of canals — it’s estimated that nearly 10,000 of these boats once plied their way through Venice in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, gondolas (oarsmen) are romantic regalia  of the city’s past. Approximately 350 gondolas remain in Venice, much to the delight of visitors in search of  moonlit rides while the songs of gondoliers echo through the narrow canals.

Note that Venetians regard gondoliers as highly skilled practitioners of a noble trade. This, along with the expense of building a gondola (upwards of €20,000) and the high cost of living in Venice, contributes to the price of their services. Prices are supposed to be fixed by the city (about €80.00 for a 40-minute ride), but it’s not unusual for gondoliers to ask for more. Don’t be afraid to haggle or walk away. Additional services, such as singing or special guided tours, are considered add-ons.

Venice gondola tips:

• Hiring a gondola is the best, and sometimes only, way to see some of the more hidden areas of the city, as many Venice canals have no roads or walkways along them.
• Prices are usually higher for nighttime rides, where the rate can be around €100 for a short ride.
• Stands are located around the city or you can book a gondola ride through a Holland America Line  Venice shore excursion .

How to Take the Vaporetto (Water Bus)

Water buses are a common sight on Venice canals. Venice is not a large city, so you can reach most points of interest by foot  in a reasonable amount of time. For most Venice visitors, the vaporetto is great for a long ride up and down the Grand Canal while getting a feel for the city. It’s also essential for visiting some of the islands of the lagoon.

For those with mobility issues, or if you don’t feel like walking any more, the vaporetto is a great option. And most  are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

You can find vaporetto tickets throughout Venice. Note that vaporetto is both the name of a specific type of vessel and a catchall term for all water buses running in and around the Venice canals. The main types of water bus are: vaporetto, single-level boats with large, open spaces in the middle commonly found in the city center; motoscafo, narrower vessels with enclosed cabins for travel on more open waters outside the Grand Canal; and the motonave, larger vessels resembling the vaporetto (can be single- or double-decked) used for traveling to more distant points.  

Vaporetto tips:

• Single-ride tickets are quite expensive. If you think you’ll use the vaporetto a lot, purchase a Tourist Travel Card — available for durations ranging from 12 hours all the way up to seven days.
• Another option is the Venezia Unica tourist pass — more expensive but it also includes access to museums and other tourist attractions as well as public toilets.
• Try to nab a seat within a vaporetto’s outdoor seating area located on the stern —the perfect spot for sightseeing on your ride up the Grand Canal.

The canals are just the starting point. There are many more things to do in Venice, Italy. Visit incredible museums, watch Venetian glass blowing, or taste Venetian chocolate. Explore Venice’s canals on a  cruise to Europe   with Holland America Line.

Help Widget copy TBD

HAL Home page

• Latest News

Large cruise ships to be banned from Venice grand canal

After a ten-year dispute, Venice has finally succeeded in banning big cruise ships from entering its grand canal.

The Italian government announced yesterday (7 August 2019) that it will begin rerouting cruise ships away from the historic city.

Residents have been complaining for years that cruise ships are damaging Venice’s historic foundations and in June MSC Cruises’ ship MSC Opera collided with a small tourist boat and damaged the quayside of the Giudecca Canal, an incident which reignited calls for the ban.

The new plan will see ships weighing more than 1,000 tonnes or more moved away from Venice’s canal.

According to the Financial Times , Mr Toninelli, the minister for Venice, has said that from next month until the end of the year, these large cruise ships will dock at Fusina and Lombardia terminals away from the centre of Venice, but still inside the city’s lagoon. By next year, a third of cruise ships will be rerouted.

In the future, the minister has said that the cruise ships would be found new berths at a terminal agreed by public consultation, according to the FT .

Commenting on the cruise ship ban in Venice, Andy Harmer, Clia’s UK and Ireland director, has said:

“CLIA cruise lines have been actively engaged in discussions for a considerable time about using the Vittoria Emanuele Canal as the preferred alternative solution. We have been cooperative in simulations and studies that supported the Comitatone recommendation. CLIA urges all parties in Venice to reach a conclusion to start the preparation work to prepare the Vittoria Emanuele Canal so we can begin to reroute the larger ships.

“The cruise industry has worked diligently with the Mayor of Venice, the Veneto Region, the Port Authority and many others to find viable solutions to allow larger cruise ships to access the Marittima berths without transiting the Giudecca Canal and we are in agreement with the solution developed by Comitatone in 2017 to utilize the Vittorio Emanuele Canal as the best and most prudent means to move larger cruise ships away from the Giudecca. “CLIA cruise line members welcome and will support the urgent implementation of this solution.”

On Twitter, members of the public are praising the decision, including @DanaDelany, who tweeted “These cruise ships do not belong in Venice. Ban them” and @captsingh, who wrote “Venice must be put on U.N. danger list, ban cruise ships: conservationist”.

This article will be updated.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with all the latest news and incentives in the Cruise Trade News Newsletter.

• cruise ship ban
• latest news

arrow_outward Related Articles

Cruise Croatia hails agents for driving ‘record-breaking’ season

Cruise Croatia has reported its best-ever sailing season, carrying more than 4,000 passengers between May...

Regent hosts agents on Venice trip to highlight...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has hosted several agents on a shoreside excursion in Venice to...

Regent Seven Seas and ITC host ‘ultimate ship...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Inspiring Travel (ITC) will this week host several agents and...

Royal Caribbean launches new training tour for travel...

Royal Caribbean has announced a new schedule of training sessions, events and webinars for the...

Cruise Trade News is the only dedicated trade title for the UK cruise sector. It is published by Real Response Media.

• Digital Issues
• Knowledge Hub
• Agent Incentives
• Meet the team

TERMS PRIVACY

About the author:

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

TIMELESS BEAUTY OF THE PAST

European cruises.

Jump on a satisfying study in contrasts, from the black Baltic to the azure Aegean, and from medieval castles to modern skyscrapers with a cruise to Europe.

As you Cruise to Europe, peer over the side of your ship as it approaches the weathered spires of old-town Copenhagen, the sun-bleached houses of Santorini, the colourful cliffs of the Mediterranean or the Celtic cliffs of the British Isles. Dive into Croatia's waterfalls and France's famous rivers and let the eclecticism of Europe delight you again and again. Culinary excellence also awaits, from familiar favourites like Italian pasta and Spanish tapas, to lesser-known cuisines from Amsterdam to Zagreb. Discover the magic with a Europe cruise.

Save Big With These European Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Europe cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

Get Royal Deals, Sign Up Today

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

SUN, SPICE AND SEA BREEZES

It's no coincidence that many of the best European cruises call in the most beautiful ports in the world. Eat your way through the cobbled streets of Italy, contrast the timeless beauty of Greece's ruins with the modern chic that's come to define its islands or hike through forlorn caverns and up lush waterfalls in captivating Croatia.

DISCOVER LA DOLCE VITA

From the storied streets of Rome to the charming canals of Venice, Italy is a country that needs no introduction. Whether you pose with Michelangelo's David in Florence or indulge in to-die-for Pizza in Naples, it's no wonder why so many cruises to Europe visit la bella Italia.

FROM THE ACROPOLIS TO THE AEGEAN

Greece is remarkable, from the ancient Acropolis of Athens to the blue-roofed houses of Santorini. Whether you trek through the limestone hills in the north or swim through the cobalt waters around the Cyclades, it's easy to see why this is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

"GAMES OF THRONES" Lives On

The hit TV show might be finished, but "Game of Thrones" fans will recognize dozens of locations in the walled city of Dubrovnik , the jewel of Croatia's Adriatic coast. Farther afield, explore the countless waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park or pair European cruises with tastings at underrated wineries.

SCENES THAT INSPIRED 1,000 PAINTINGS

Endless possibilities are what the coasts of France, Spain and Portugal have always been about. Generations of painting greats from Van Gogh to Picasso have found inspiration from the crystalline coasts of the French Riviera, to the craggy mountaintops of the Canary Islands. Of course, the best European cruises also dock in timeless cities like Barcelona, Cherbourg, Lisbon and beyond.  

CITY OF LOVE, CÔTE D'AZUR

The only thing better than strolling into Paris as the Eiffel Tower lights up at night? Sitting down for a meal of fresh-caught seafood as the sun sets into the harbor of aptly-named Nice. France has got something for every traveler, which is why so many cruises to Europe dock here.

SAY "SALUD" TO SPAIN

Sitting down for Spanish tapas is one of the most satisfying food experiences in the world, especially when you wash it down with fruity sangria. Plus, the Jurassic topography of the Canary Islands and the storied streets of Barcelona are just a few of the best places to visit in Europe you'll find here.

KING OF DISCOVERY

Portugal is where many of the first expeditions to the New World start, but most people on European cruises bound for Lisbon wonder why anyone would leave. Explore the mysterious Quinta de Regaleira castle in Sintra, pour port wine in Porto or practice your surfing skills in the Algarve.

Best European Cruises

A cruise to Europe is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Europe onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

SPAIN, PORTUGAL & THE CANARY ISLANDS

EXPLORE MORE

BALTIC SEA & SCANDINAVIA

BRITISH ISLES & SOUTHAMPTON

MEDITERRANEAN ITALY & GREEK ISLES

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO European Cruises Insider

There’s no vacation like a summer cruise in Europe. Meander through cobblestoned streets lined with cafes and shops. Go from exploring the awe-inspiring at the Colosseum in Rome to wandering along the Acropolis in Athens. Admire the architectural splendor of marvels like Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and the blue-domed churches of Santorini. And eat your way through the Mediterranean and beyond — like pasta in Italy, tapas in Spain, fresh seafood in Norway and grilled meats in Greece. Pack a lifetime of adventure into one legendary Europe vacation next summer.

The Spookiest Places in Europe for Ghost Hunters | Royal Caribbean Cruises

May 20, 2024

Seeking scary places to visit? These are some of the spookiest places in Europe, from the streets of London to the forests of Transylvania.

Big Ben Facts to Know Before Your Next Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the most fun Big Ben facts, plus facts about the royal family and its connection to Elizabeth Tower and the Houses of Parliament.

Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece, on Your Cruise Vacation

There is no shortage of things to do in Athens. The Greek capital has a history of more than 3,400 years to entertain you.

Planning a Barcelona Vacation From the Sea

A Barcelona vacation is always a good idea, but arriving at this iconic port of call by sea is a truly unique experience. Here's why.

Can You Take Days Off Without PTO? Here's What You Need to Know | Royal Caribbean Cruises

April 19, 2024

An epic vacation doesn't have to mean depleting all your vacation days. Can you take days off without PTO? Yes! Here are some ways to do it.

Plan the Best Cruises From Venice | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 11, 2024

Cruises from Venice can be a gateway to discovery — and not just of the places you sail to. Here are some Venice excursions to get you inspired.

Visiting Lovely Loch Ness on Scotland Vacations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Here's everything you need to know about visiting Loch Ness on Scotland vacations, including its history, how to get there, and the best things to do.

The Top Things to Do Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Brilliance of the Seas makes it impossible to feel bored during a vacation! These top things to do onboard this beloved cruise ship make it a fan favorite for many.

Fun European Vacations for Adventures | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Are you looking for your next adventure? This thrill-seekers guide will show you where to get the ultimate adrenaline fix on European vacations.

Berlin for Oktoberfest: What To Know Before You Go | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Berlin for Oktoberfest is one of the world's best parties. Here's everything you need to know before you go on your cruise to Berlin.

Plan Your Best Spa Getaways | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Plan the best spa getaway possible with experiences being tailored to suit your vacation needs. Rest and rejuvenate in exotic destinations around the world.

Ultimate World Cruise: An Epic Journey Around the World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Tick countless items off your bucket list in an epic journey around the world when you book the Ultimate World Cruise — Hurry, it will soon set sail!

Top Secret Vacation Spots in Europe | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top secret vacation spots to visit when traveling in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

The Best Secret Mediterranean Beaches | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From the mainstream French and Italian Rivieras to secluded idylls in the Balkans, your search for the best Mediterranean beaches ends here.

Visiting Historic Abbeys in England | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Did you know some abbeys in England are still open for visits? This guide will help you discover the most glorious and influential abbeys in England.

The Best Holiday Destinations To Visit This Season | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best holiday destinations are those that allow you to forget your stresses back home and spend time with your closest loved ones.

The Most Famous European Cathedrals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From Notre Dame to the iconic La Sagrada Família, here are some of the most famous European cathedrals.

Pablo Picasso Facts and How He Influenced the Art World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Headed to Europe on a cruise for art immersion? Enjoy these Pablo Picasso facts for your vacation travels and save your favorite destinations.

Underrated European Travel Destinations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top underrated travel destinations to visit when taking a vacation in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

How to Get Travel Tuesday Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Travel Tuesday cruise deals go live at midnight on Cyber Monday, and are designed to bring you discounts on experiences that you'll remember for a lifetime.

How to Have an Epic Family Vacation Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Planning your next epic family vacation starts today onboard Rhapsody of the Seas, a mid-sized cruise ship that is part of the Royal Caribbean Vision Class.

Enjoying Breakfast in Rome

While it's true that many Italians take a quick, casual approach to the day's first meal, your breakfast in Rome will be anything but forgettable.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Port Cities | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Cruising is a wonderful thing. It can bring you to some of the most beautiful port cities in the world.

9 Tips for Preparing Your House for an Extended Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree.

Local Things to Do in Barcelona

Discover the best things to do as a local while traveling to Spain for your own Barcelona vacation experience with these helpful ideas & travel tips.

Europe Vacation: Best Places to Visit

There's more to a European cruise vacation than just packing your bags! Plan the perfect trip on your travel getaway to visit the best places in Europe.

Couple's Weekend Getaway | Paris Vacation

Reveal the most romantic ideas for a couple’s weekend getaway while traveling on a Paris vacation. Experience love and the charming city built around it.

Ancient Greek Architecture

Learn about the types of Greek architecture you can explore during your next Mediterranean vacation. When in Greece, you're sure to discover hidden gems of ancient ruins that still stand alongside modern buildings.

Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

Uncover 8 of the best Mediterranean cruise destinations while on your travel vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Rock Climbing on Norway Fjords Cruise

Discover the best rock climbing locations while on your Norway fjords cruise. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy the ultimate guide made for you.

Italian Architecture | Italy Tours

Uncover the history of Italy through Italian architecture and art tours as you travel to Rome, Florence, and Milan. Visit the best cities in the world.

The Best European Summer Vacations

Planning the best European summer vacations? We’ve curated the ultimate guide to visiting some of the most relaxing and legendary destinations to travel to in Europe.

Top 11 Must-Try Mediterranean Foods

Mediterranean food is renowned worldwide for being exceptionally healthy and balanced. Here are the top 11 must-try Mediterranean foods.

6 Popular Farm Foods from Spain

Here are six of the most popular farm foods from Spain. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams.

Wildlife You'll See on Your Norway Vacation

A Norway vacation will help you take in all the wild north has to offer. You'll be able to see an incredible range of wildlife during your stay.

10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Cruising to Ephesus soon? Here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey, with something for every traveler.

Italian Music Culture & its Famous Operas

Plan a trip to Italy to discover opera as the largest influence on Italian music culture. Create an unforgettable getaway vacation cruise!

Plan the Best London Day Trips Ever

Set sail on a getaway cruise vacation and discover the best things to do in London while enjoying your day trips. Experience history, Harry Potter, and more!

Plan a Greek Island Hopping Getaway

Take a moment to make the most of your Greek island hopping travels, reveal the best places to visit in Greece. Plan your unique vacation with ease.

Visit Famous Landmarks in the British Isles

Uncover the most famous landmarks while making the most of your British Isles vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a tailored guide.

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil

Uncover the secrets to having the best olive oil in the world as well as the know-how on all the many types and their uses. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Traveling to the Crystal Caves in Spain

Visit the crystal caves in Spain as you take a travel vacation to uncover a view of the magnificent Pulpí Geode. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you.

Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum in Spain

Explore the Salvador Dali Museum and Garden in Spain as you make the most of your cultural traveling adventures. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Eating in Italy | Local Food Traveling

Uncover the ultimate guide to eating locally in Italy as you make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Vacation with Turkish Baths & Hammam Spas

Uncover the ultimate Turkish baths & hammam spa experiences to making the most of your vacation to Turkey. Enjoy a guide tailored to your travels.

Gladiators of the Roman Colosseum

Plan a cultural vacation to Italy by setting sail for the Roman Colosseum. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you on the history of Rome & its gladiator.

Turkish Desserts to Sweeten your Vacation

Turkish desserts are as pivotal to the experience of traveling in Turkey as a cruise through the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey

Find a new perspective from high in the sky with a hot air balloon ride in Turkey. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet. Before you say "cheers" with your next glass of sparkling wine, take a moment to learn about what's inside the glass you're clinking.

Fun European Cities to Visit With Kids

Traveling with kids? Here are some fun European cities to visit on your next European cruise — plus tips to make it a memorable, stress-free experience.

Israeli Food: Top 10 Must-Trys

Here's a list of some of the best Israeli food found in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and beyond including sabich, shakshuka and bourekas.

Planning a Rome Vacation From the Sea and Beyond

Here are some Rome vacation must-sees and tips on how to navigate travel when arriving or departing via cruise through Civitavecchia.

Where to Find the Best Skiing in the Alps

Here's everything you need to know about skiing in the Alps, including where to stay and when to visit.

Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

As you browse cruises, the first question you ask will be "Where are cruise ports near me?" Here's how to choose a port, and what to do once you're there.

10 Facts About Turkey the Country

Planning to visit Turkey? We have the top 10 facts about Turkey the country, giving everything, you need to know to plan the best vacation trip.

Relaxing 7 Day Cruise to Europe

No matter which 7-day cruise to Europe you end up booking, here's how to plan a European vacation that's high on adventure with low added stress.

The Ultimate Guide to a Blue Lagoon Iceland Vacation

Plan the ultimate Blue Lagoon Iceland vacation. Our guide covers top attractions, insider tips, and expert recommendations. Start planning now.

Fashion Week Places to Visit in Paris

Find all the top fashion places to visit in Paris and how to get there during Fashion Week getaway travels. Plan your France vacation!

Best Scotland Castle Tours

There are over 1,500 Scotland castle tours to choose from. We've narrowed down a list of the most; historic, cultural, famous, and royal significance.

OLD-WORLD WARMTH ALONG BREEZY COAST

You can feel warmth in your heart no matter the temperature outside, and the northwestern reaches of Europe illustrate this beautifully. Join the best European cruises through the British Isles and along the coast of the Netherlands, where enchanted country charm and royal, old-world cities offer endless possibilities for memories that will last a lifetime.  

THE JOY OF GOING DUTCH

The Dutch have managed to keep the sea at bay for hundreds of years, but many of the best European cruises still make their way into Amsterdam . If you tire of the tranquility you find amid tulip fields and beneath towering windmills, make your way to the hipster capital of Rotterdam.

ETERNAL LANDSCAPES ON THE EMERALd ISLE

Life is but a dream in Ireland , whether you down a pint of Guinness and trace tales told by James Joyce in Dublin, or careen along the Cliffs of Moher along the west coast. Many cruises to Europe also stop in Northern Ireland's Belfast, a city that's a testament to rebirth and reconciliation.

STEP INTO A SCOTTISH FAIRYTALE

When you visit Scotland, it can be difficult to discern legend from real life. Strolling down Edinburgh's Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle might feel like a dream, while the fabled and mythical Loch Ness may surprise you with its charm and stunning scenery. Scotland's one of the best places to visit in Europe, period.

WINTER SKIES, SUMMER SUN

Scandinavia  is dark for much of the year, but light is what defines its polar nations, from the Midnight Sun that rises high above Demark in mid-summer, to the skies above Norway and Iceland amid winter's deepest freeze. Find endless possibilities and the best European cruises along the Baltic, from the savory seafood eateries of Oslo, to the cold cityscape of Reykjavik.  

SCANDINAVIA'S UNSUNG SISTER

Many of the best European cruises dock in Denmark, and it's no wonder why. From colorful Nyhavn harbor in Copenhagen to storied castles like Amalienborg and Frederiksborg, Denmark more than makes up for the fact that its more famous neighbors often eclipse it.

LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

It's easy to be intrigued by Iceland , whether you walk through Reykjavik's riveting Hallgrimskirkja church, or visit “the Wash Road”, the hippest shopping district in the city. There are few better ways to cap off cruises to Europe than a dip in the aptly-named Blue Lagoon.

PRICELESS PANORAMAS, FABULOUS FJORDs

Norway is a country in beautiful balance. Had enough of the orderliness of Oslo? Head west to beautiful Bergen, where finger-shaped fjords jut into and out of thousands of miles of coastline. Or contrast a fresh fish dinner at sea level with the view from towering Trolltunga cliff.

Europe is beautiful in every season, but the peak of comfortable weather (especially in the north) is between May and September.

You should always be prepared for rain and colder weather when you travel to Europe, especially in the North. Dress in light layers for your vacation.

Europeans speak more English the farther north you go. Your phone's translation app (or, at minimum, learning how to say "Hello" and "Thank You" in local languages) will aid you along the Mediterranean.

RELATED PORTS

Learn more about Baltic ports like Klaipeda, Lithuania and Tallinn, Estonia, or read up on Bergen, the gateway to Norway's stunning fjords. The Mediterranean provides many options but start by exploring Malaga on Spain's Costa del Sol or the exciting Monte Carlo, Monaco. The most popular ports in the British Isles are Edinburgh in Scotland and the cities of Belfast and Dublin in Ireland. No matter what you like, you will find your favourite European cruise.

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Barcelona, Spain

Copenhagen, Denmark

Venice, Italy

Argostoli, Greece

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Mykonos, Greece

Santorini, Greece

Bologna (Ravenna), Italy

Zadar, Croatia

Bergen, Norway

Aarhus, Denmark

Ajaccio, Corsica

Alesund, Norway

Amalfi Coast (Salerno), Italy

Arctic Circle (Cruising), Norway

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Berlin (Rostock), Germany

Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany

Bilbao, Spain

Brest, France

Bruges/Zeebruge (Brussels), Belgium

Cannes, France

Chania (Souda), Crete

Cork (Cobh), Ireland

Flam, Norway

Fredericia, Denmark

Geiranger, Norway

Gibraltar, United Kingdom

Gijon, Spain

Hamburg, Germany

Holyhead, Wales

Honningsvag, Norway

Olympia (Katakolon), Greece

Klaipeda, Lithuania

Lisbon, Portugal

Reykjavik, Iceland

Sardinia (Cagliari), Italy

Agadir, Morocco

Alicante, Spain

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Cartagena, Spain

Cherbourg, France

Dover, England

Dublin, Ireland

Edinburgh (S. Queensferry), Scotland

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey

Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland

Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Helsinki, Finland

Ibiza, Spain

Inverness / Loch Ness, Scotland

Kotor, Montenegro

Kristiansand, Norway

La Palma, Canary Islands

Lerwick / Shetland, Scotland

Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Molde, Norway

Nice, France

Olden, Norway

Oslo, Norway

Paris (Le Havre), France

Rhodes, Greece

Riga, Latvia

Sete, France

Sicily (Messina), Italy

Sicily (Catania), Italy

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

Genoa, Italy

La Coruna, Spain

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Sicily (Palermo), Italy

Skjolden, Norway

St. Peter Port, Guernsey

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Tallinn, Estonia

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Valletta, Malta

Vigo, Spain

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Provence (Marseille), France

Skagen, Denmark

Tromso, Norway

Visby, Sweden

Waterford (Dunmore East), Ireland

Stavanger, Norway

Málaga, Spain

Ravenna (Venice), Italy

Provence (Toulon), France

Valencia, Spain

Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy

Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy

Naples / Capri, Italy

Bremerhaven, Germany

Split, Croatia

Corfu, Greece

Limassol, Cyprus

Porto (Leixoes), Portugal

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Portofino, Italy

Koper, Slovenia

Cadiz, Spain

Liverpool, England

Bordeaux (La Rochelle), France

Istanbul, Turkey

Florence / Pisa (Carrara), Italy

Zakynthos, Greece

Thessaloniki, Greece

Portland, Dorset, England

Skiathos, Greece

Bristol, England

Maloy, Norway

Haugesund, Norway

Seville (Cadiz), Spain

Kotka, Finland

Kiel, Germany

Bodrum, Turkey

Burgas, Bulgaria

Casablanca, Morocco

Chios, Greece

Santa Margherita, Italy

Bay of Kotor (Cruising), Montenegro

Constanta, Romania

Sinop, Turkey

Varna, Bulgaria

Trieste, Italy

Trabzon, Turkey

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

8 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Manhattan, New York City, NY

Cruise itinerary.

Carnival Fun Italian Style

Day 1: Manhattan, New York City

Day 2 & 3: Fun Day at Sea

Day 4: amber cove, day 5: grand turk, day 6: half moon cay.

Day 7 & 8: Fun Day at Sea

Day 9: manhattan, new york city.

Get to Know Carnival Venezia

It's a long way from Venice to NYC, but Carnival Venezia thinks the two could be next-door neighbors. This ship is now sailing from its Big Apple homeport... and already has big Port Canaveral plans for the winter/spring 2025 season! What can you expect to find in this ship? Well, there’s more than a little Italy in this one — that’s why we’re calling this new type of cruising Fun Italian Style ™ . It starts with the Venice-inspired atrium Piazza San Marco , the onboard flavor and flair continues at the three-course Marco Polo and Canal Grande Restaurants , La Strada Grill ™ and its Italian street food, plus fusion spots Tomodoro ™ (Mexican-Italian, yum!) and Guy’s Burger Joint (new burgers with Italian flavors — also yum!). And in authentic ristorante style, the elevated Italian of Il Viaggio . Sip well at bars that each specialize in their own thing: complex and sophisticated cocktails at Amari ™ , bubbly stuff (plus snacks and coffee) at Frizzante ™ , frozen everything at Rococó ™ and fine Italian wines at Carnevale Bar & Lounge ™ . There’s great entertainment at the red-velvety Teatro Rosso and its Playlist Productions ™ shows, plus Gondola Lounge was inspired by the famous canals of Venice. Terrazza staterooms are a whole new way to stay in style and comfort, all in a great location close to amenities like the exclusive Terrazza Carnevale , a private terrace deck made for lounging, sipping and fun, day or night! There’s also a lot of the classic Carnival fun that repeat cruisers ( hey there!) know and love. Deliciously familiar flavors come from spots like Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ , while celebration spots include Piano Bar 88 and Serenity Bar , and relaxation happens at Cloud 9 Spa ™ and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . For the kids, there’s spaces just right for their age like Camp Ocean ™ , Circle “C” ® and Club O2 ® . And outdoors, get ready for a very splashy WaterWorks ™ and SportSquare ™ featuring a ropes course, jogging track, mini golf and outdoor fitness center. So as we were saying… hey, we’re cruising here! Carnival Venezia and all this Fun Italian Style sailing now from NYC. Andiamo!

Onboard Activities

Onboard Dining

change your itinerary

Winding Canals And Golden Beaches: Visit The Venice Of Portugal On Your Next European Vacation

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Perhaps the most iconic city in Italy is the beautiful historic city of Venice. Lined with scenic canals oozing romance and all the European vibes imaginable, Venice highlights many travelers' bucket lists.

In 2024, it's not the most welcoming with overtourism and environmental concerns, plus a tacky entry fee for tourists.

Fortunately, there are many doppelgangers around Europe for selfie-worthy canals and charming streets.

While you can't cruise the whole city by a dreamy gondola, one city in Portugal has been dubbed the “Venice of Portugal”, or at the very least the “ Venice of the Algarve “.

Nestled in the Algarve near Spain's border lies the lesser-known seaside city of Tavira , home to winding canals and golden beaches.

A Gorgeous Alternative To Venice

It's understandable to say there's no place like Venice, but there is such a thing as second best.

Like a bad breakup where we momentarily feel like we'll never find love again, it's safe to say Tavira is your rebound if Venice is your ex.

Portugal, or the city, doesn't claim to reign supreme over one of the most iconic cities in Europe, but dupe destinations are a hot trend right now.

Finding the next best thing to avoid crowds or save money is all over TikTok and social media.

While romantic gondola rides and aromas of spaghetti and meatballs might be off the table, you don't have to sacrifice the quality of wine or incredible natural sites.

Despite being lesser known, there are some similarities to Venice. Obviously, canals are the most notable, hence Tavira's nickname.

“Gondolas”, per se, are scarce or a novelty at best here, but the good news is there are some amazing boat tours to enjoy the pretty water.

Ferries and tours operate to some stunning sites, but no better than Ria Formosa Nature Park , where miles and miles of calm canals and islands eventually run into a magnificent coastline of golden beaches.

Compared to Venice – no entry fees, no reservations required, but you can still indulge in awesome food, wine, and scenery without the overbearing rules and extra costs as the Algarve is known for affordability.

Tavira's Beautiful Seaside

The picturesque canals may not be discussed enough, but if there is one claim to fame in this side of Portugal, it's beautiful golden beaches.

Portugal has been booming, and now that summer is upon us, it surely won't change. Tavira may not be relatively unknown, but that's the appeal.

With Porto, Faro, and of course Lisbon, soaring to new heights, this only adds to the allure to visit such a place.

Tavira is lined with golden beaches, but there is one place with gorgeous white sand a quick ferry ride away for a day trip.

Just 20 minutes away from the city is Ilha de Tavira – a sugary white sand island.

But, beachgoers be warned – for better or worse, the stunning scenery may not be the lasting memory you have if you happen to wander in the “clothing optional” section.

Easier To Reach Than You Think

Azores Airlines recently announced the addition of new nonstop flights to Portugal from the U.S. from Boston and New York.

Portugal is a fairly small country compared to many European nations, so no matter where you fly into the mainland, Tavira is within reach.

Many would agree that exploring Portugal by train is an adventure worth taking in its own right.

Nonetheless, Azores obviously flies to the country's phenomenal islands as well, so that would be the only monkey wrench reaching Tavira.

That being said, the nearest Portuguese city is Faro, which has seen a surge of tourists as of late. United picked up the memo and now flies nonstop here , making Tavira super easy to reach within 40 minutes.

Another convenient option would be to reach Tavira from Spain, another dynamite country seeing huge amounts of tourists pour in.

Travelers can reach the Venice-like city from the Spanish city of Seville in under 2 hours by bus or driving.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️ Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum : Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Winding Canals And Golden Beaches: Visit The Venice Of Portugal On Your Next European Vacation appeared first on Travel Off Path .

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Mediterranean - Black Sea Cruise Ports

Dubrovnik (Croatia, Port Gruz)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-06-18 13:48

Port Dubrovnik cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Dubrovnik, Croatia, Port Gruz. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Dubrovnik is an Adriatic Sea cruise port and city in Croatia, and one of Europe's historically most prominent and popular vacation travel destinations. The city has population around 43,000 (metro over 66,000). Other major Croatian passenger ports (cruise and ferry) are Split , Zadar , Rijeka , Sibenik .

From Dubrovnik's Port Gruz (translated as "cargo port", locode HRDBV), regularly daily scheduled car and passenger ferries (operated by Jadrolinija) interlink the city with the Elaphites/Elaphiti Islands (Sipan, Lopud, Kolocep) and also with Bari Italy (4x weekly crossings, travel time 7,5 hours).

Medieval Dubrovnik (Ragusa) was founded by the Romans in the 7th-century BC. It was the second-largest independent city-state in the Adriatic Sea (after Venice Italy ). This picturesque town is on the Dalmatian coast and is a major resort vacation destination, best-known for its stone-made double walls and fortifications.

The perfectly preserved Old Town is unique with its steep cobbled streets, marble-paved squares, stone-made churches, palaces, fountains. Among the city's historic buildings are two monasteries, the Rector's Palace, mint house, customs house. However, the most popular tourist attraction are the city walls (visited by over 1,1 million people in 2016) running almost 2 km (1,2 ml) around the city. The walls are 4-6 m (13–20 ft) thick on the landward side, but much thinner on the seaward side. The system of turrets and towers was intended for protection.

The city-state Ragusa was under the protection of the Byzantine Empire (867-1205), the Venetian Republic (until 1358), the Kingdom of Hungary (until 1526) and the Ottoman Empire (until 1806), but remained self-governing as an independent republic. In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte abolished its city-republic status. Following the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars, in 1815, the Congress of Vienna/Wien ceded the port town to Austria. In 1920, following WW1 (1914-1918), the town became part of Yugoslavia. During WW2 (1939-1945) it was occupied by the Germans and Italians.

The city's average temperatures are 9 C / 48 F (coldest / January) and 25 C / 77 F (warmest / August). The city is served by an international airport, located approx 20 km (12 ml) southeast of downtown. Bus service runs every 10-20 min, and is operated by all 9 bus lines. Bus tickets can be purchased at every newspaper stand, and also in the bus (at higher price).

From Dubrovnik cruise ship tourists can visit Cavtat, Trsteno and Ston. 

Dubrovnik cruise port

Dubrovnik handles around 600 cruise ship calls and around 900,000 passengers annually. These numbers rank the cruise port as the Mediterranean's 10th largest (following Barcelona ,  Civitavecchia-Rome , Venice , Marseille , Naples , Athens-Piraeus , Genoa , and Savona ).

The port is among cruising industry's most regularly visited and unique destinations. Today. the city is at risk of being destroyed by an overwhelming number of tourists. In 2016, the cruise port handled a total of 529 ship calls and nearly 800,000 passengers. The number of calls in 2015 was 475, in 2014 - 463.

• In 2016, UNESCO sounded the alarm by warning that the city's world heritage status is at risk, highlighting concern about “management of cruise ships” and “the maximum number of tourists in regard to the sustainable carrying capacity of the city”. In August 2016, in one day alone, the city (population around 43,000) was visited by a total of 10,388 cruise tourists. In 2016, the city was visited by over 5 million tourists, which was about 19% of the Mediterranean market.
• In response, in January 2017, the city launched a plan to limit the number of tourists visiting Old Town to 8,000. Then were installed a total of 116 CCTV cameras to count people entering or leaving the complex. The situation is similar to that in  Venice Italy , where locals regularly protest against cruise ship tourism.

The city's UNESCO status was reviewed due to lack of both tourism strategy (focusing on cruises) and city management plan. Dubrovnik Port Authority is the main negotiator with cruise ship companies. However, there is an intention to let port's management to a foreign concessionaire. All signed for 2019 contracts limit cruise liners to 2 per day, and the number of cruise tourists to 5,000 daily.

Dubrovnik cruise terminal

In February 2016 was announced the concession contract for construction of a new cruise terminal in Dubrovnik.

• The new facility is operated by "Dubrovnik International Cruise Port Investment" (abbrev DICPI). The company is jointly-owned by Global Port Holdings (GPH, Turkey) and Bouygues Batiment International (France). To allow cruise port operations, the state-owned company Dubrovnik Port Authority, granted a 40-year concession rights to the joint venture company.
• GPH (world’s largest cruise port operator) handles annually around 5 million passengers in its ports worldwide. GPH operates facilities in such large seaports as Barcelona, Malaga, Lisbon, Valletta, Singapore, also several ports in Turkey.
• Bouygues Batiment International (subsidiary of Bouygues Construction) was involved in the construction of Kai Tak Cruise Terminal ( Hong Kong China ).

Currently, Port Gruz has 2 quays - one with total length 810 m / 2657 ft (2 berths, completed in 2009, cost EUR 26 million) and another with length 230 m / 755 ft (1 berth, completed in 2011, cost EUR 8 million). The port's new quay has length of 400 m / 1312 ft (1 berth) and will be able to handle even the world's largest cruise vessels of RCI's Oasis-class.

Construction works in Dubrovnik port's Gruz area started in October 2016, with scheduled completion by 2018's end. By the agreement with Dubrovnik Port Authority, DIPCI removed existing buildings and cleared the area to build a modern cruise ship terminal, plus accompanying facilities - shopping mall, commercial multi-story garage (dedicated parking facility) and an international bus terminal (in the port).

The new passenger terminal is located just 3 km (2 ml) from the Old Town. The project's cost is around USD 100 million, financed by several major international and local banks.

Currently, Dubrovnik is also visited as tender port of call, which means additional (also smaller) cruise ships anchor in open sea (usually near Lokrum Island) and their passengers are transported to Port Gruz via the ship's tender boats.

Jadrolinija launches new Dubrovnik-Bari ferry service

Starting Monday, June 3rd, a new ferry service will commence between Dubrovnik Croatia and Bari Italy. The ferryboat will depart from Dubrovnik...

Montenegro to launch Budva-Dubrovnik ferry service in June

Filip Radulovic (Montenegro's transport minister) announced that a new ferry service connecting Budva to Dubrovnik Croatia will launch on June 29th...

Windstar announces winter Mediterranean cruises for 2025-2026 season

The premium travel brand Windstar is set to offer an impressive array of winter Mediterranean voyages for the 2025-2026 season, showcasing a diverse...

Celestyal Journey adds Heavenly Adriatic and Desert Days departures for 2025

Celestyal Cruises has expanded its itinerary offerings with the introduction of two Heavenly Adriatic voyages in March 2025 and three Desert Days...

Fred Olsen announces Mediterranean fly-cruises for Balmoral ship in 2025

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled its Mediterranean fly-cruises aboard MS Balmoral ship for 2025. Passengers can embark on 7- to 12...

Swan Hellenic's 2025 Cultural Expedition Voyages Unveiled

Swan Hellenic, renowned for pioneering cultural expeditions, presents an array of enriching itineraries spanning West Africa, the Mediterranean...

Windstar's cruise ship Star Legend to showcase new Mediterranean routes in 2025

Windstar Cruises, following its inaugural Mediterranean winter season, has revealed plans to extend Star Legend ship's presence in the region for an...

Celestyal Cruises' expansion: year-round sailing and new destinations revealed

Celestyal Cruises, renowned for its boutique approach to seasonal summer sailings in the Greek Islands, is embarking on an expansion into new...

Celestyal Cruises unveils 2025 schedule, 2026 coming soon with popular Adriatic itineraries

Celestyal Cruises has unveiled its 2025 itinerary program and confirmed the imminent launch of its 2026 collection. Currently available for booking...

SeaDream Yacht Club unveils 2026 Mediterranean voyages with new ports and longer (14-day...

SeaDream Yacht Club has unveiled its 2026 Mediterranean voyages, featuring 7 new ports of call and the introduction of the first-ever 14-day in-depth...

•   show more news

Dubrovnik - user reviews and comments

Cruise Routes (Interactive Map)

Request a quote download brochure

Russian River Cruises

• Find your cruise
• Moscow — St. Petersburg
• Moscow — Astrakhan
• Astrakhan — St. Petersburg
• St. Petersburg
• Cruise Highlights
• News & Travel Tips

Lorem Ipsum

Moscow to Saint Petersburg

13 days – 12 nights

Collapse Full Itinerary

Gold, Platinum  Airport transfer / Check-in at centrally located Marriott Aurora***** or Ararat Park Hyatt*****

Imperial : Private airport transfer / Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Moscow***** only a minute from the Kremlin and Red Square

Volga dream experience:

Gold: City Tour / Novodevichy Cemetery Imperial, Platinum:  City tour / Lunch in a Moscow City Skyscraper / Novodevichy Cemetery / Sparrow Hills

Meals: Breakfast

Platinum / Imperial

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Gold:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / GUM Department Store

Platinum:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / St. Basil’s Cathedral / GUM Department Store / Park Zaryadye

Gold:  Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Platinum:  Leo Tolstoy House-Museum in Hamovniki / Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gold, Platinum:  Town of Uglich / Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood

Volga dream experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Gold, Platinum:  Yaroslavl City Tour / Governor’s house 

Volga dream experience: Sun Deck Barbeque

Gold:  Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery  

Platinum:  Ferapontov Monastery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Gold, Platinum: Kizhi Island / Lake Onega

Volga dream experience: Piano Concert – Compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Gold, Platinum:  Svirstroy village / Local resident’s home / Local primary school

Volga dream experience: Farewell Dinner, Captain’s cocktail

Gold:  City Tour / Peter and Paul Fortress

Platinum:  City Tour / St. Isaac’s Cathedral / Canal boat / Yusupov Palace

Gold:  The State Hermitage Museum / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Platinum:  The State Hermitage Museum (Early Entrance!) / Gold Room / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Gold:  Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Platinum:  Faberge Museum / Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Meals: Breakfast / Imperial

Gold, Platinum, Imperial: Check-out / Airport transfer

Volga dream experience: -

The rates are set for a cruising season. The price is not dependent on the month within a selected year

Choose a date

View all months July August

Choose Staterooms

All prices are per person based on double occupancy.

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Actual size of cabins can slightly differ within one category.

Request a quote

Journey: Volga Dream

Price per person: not specified

Protect Your Trip »

The 8 top alaska cruise lines of 2024.

Discover the best lines and itineraries for your type of travel style.

The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

A cruise vacation to Alaska is a profound adventure. The spectacular natural beauty, rugged wilderness, massive glaciers and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing make a trip to the 49th state a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. As an added bonus, cruise ships can reach remote parts of the state, including Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve: one of the most significant (and picturesque) marine and wildlife sanctuaries in the world.

With the ever-growing popularity of the destination and an extended cruising season (some lines now travel to Alaska between April and October), more ships are heading north to the shores of The Great Land. With these expanded itineraries, there's more than ever to think about when booking your Alaska cruise.

To assist in your decision-making process, U.S. News listed the top cruise lines to consider across five categories, including the best options for families , luxury-seekers and adventurers. U.S. News consulted data provided by Cruiseline.com and the results of our 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings to help develop this list of the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska.

• Best Overall: Holland America Line; Princess Cruises
• Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean International

Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises

• Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Silversea Cruises

Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures

Find your perfect cruise

Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises

Holland america line.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Alaska cruise ships: Eurodam , Koningsdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam , Zaandam Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Anchorage , Fairbanks and Whittier, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $379 per person for seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise on May 1, 2024, or Sept. 22, 2024. Round-trip from Vancouver.

Holland America Line has been cruising Alaska's pristine glacial waters for more than 75 years – longer than any other cruise line. On top of that, the line features more voyages to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than its competitors. Seven-night round-trip sailings depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, while cruisetours – Holland America Line 's sea- and land-based packages – leave from several cities and extend each trip to nine to 18 days.

If this will be your first visit to Alaska, consider booking the comprehensive 14-day Yukon + Denali cruisetour. This Alaska adventure includes a voyage aboard Koningsdam, plus a three-night stay at Holland America's exclusive lodge in Denali National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to see Alaska's big five: moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves – and book bucket list activities like flightseeing over Denali. If it's a picture-perfect day, your pilot might even be able to land on the tallest mountain in North America, also known as "The Great One." Other excursions include meeting dog mushers from the Iditarod, landing on the Yanert Glacier, heli-hiking or embarking on a covered wagon adventure on the Alaska tundra. The Yukon Territory portion of this trip is exclusive to Holland America; while there, visit the mining town of Dawson City and learn about Northern Canada's Klondike Gold Rush of August 1896.

Another highlight of sailing Alaska with Holland America is the Alaska Up Close program, which immerses guests in an array of expert-led lectures and excursions on board and shore. When it comes to dining , Holland America is the only cruise line to achieve the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, which means cruisers will enjoy certified sustainable wild Alaska seafood on board (think: Alaskan king crab legs and fresh salmon). You may also have access to culinary excursions in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, as well as special offerings like Alaska salmon bakes.

Cruisers should also consider one of the Holland America's new itineraries for 2024: the 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Westerdam, round-trip from Seattle. This sailing, which departs on June 9, 2024, features highlights like crossing the Arctic Circle; celebrating the summer solstice in Nome, Alaska; and watching Kodiak bears – the largest bears in the world – on Kodiak Island.

Insider tip: Sample Holland America Line's famous Dutch pea soup while glacier viewing on the outside decks. The crew passes around mugs of the warm soup in this Holland America tradition that gives a nod to the line's heritage – and keeps guests warm on chilly summer days in Alaska.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Grand Princess , Sapphire Princess , Royal Princess , Ruby Princess , Majestic Princess , Discovery Princess , Crown Princess Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; San Francisco ; Fairbanks, Alaska Starting from: $398 per person for seven-night cruise from Anchorage (Whittier, Alaska) to Vancouver on May 18, 2024

Princess Cruises has a long history in Alaska, boasting more than 50 years of sailing to the Great Land. Cruise itineraries last between seven and 14 nights, and many visit the Inside Passage. Princess Cruises also owns and operates five wilderness lodges for guests of its cruisetours, plus exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to those properties. The line's wide selection of cruisetours includes independent adventures and off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the U.S. For travelers seeking the highest level of service and the most time on land, the Connoisseur cruisetour is a good option, including up to 10 nights ashore following the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. The Connoisseur trip is hosted by a tour director and includes select sightseeing outings and most meals in the fare.

Princess' special programming, North to Alaska, offers guests unique insights into the history and culture of the region with visits from local Alaskans, photography sessions, demonstrations on lumberjacking and excursions like Cook My Catch, where guests will go fishing (with a guide), then bring their fish back for chefs to prepare for dinner at one of the designated Princess lodges.

There are two new Princess cruisetours to consider for 2024. The 15-night National Parks Tour includes a seven-day cruise, visits to five national parks, scenic rail travel and a total of eight evenings across four Princess wilderness lodges. Meanwhile, the Katmai National Park Tour is a nine-day adventure that takes guests to the famed Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park & Preserve to see bears feasting on wild salmon in Alaska's wilderness.

Insider tip: While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to check out the Princess Treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," the treehouse offers a different perspective of Denali and features "Sappy Hour" and other fun activities.  

Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska cruise ships: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Spirit Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle ; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $349 per person for seven-night sailing between Seward and Vancouver (itineraries visit Hubbard Glacier and Skagway, or Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau). Available on Norwegian Jewel in April, May and June 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the longest seasons in Alaska, extending from April through October. The line operates two of its larger ships in Alaska: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore. These ships feature a plethora of onboard activities to keep kids and adults entertained, like racetracks, laser tag, mini-golf, complimentary kids and teen clubs, video arcades, themed parties, live performances and more. Families will also enjoy entertainment by Nickelodeon, character breakfasts, salmon bakes and sessions with a park ranger who comes on board to narrate the Glacier Bay passage. You'll find many spacious room options on board perfectly suited to larger families – especially in The Haven, the line's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line offers select cruise deals where third and fourth guests sail free .

There are two new Alaska shore excursions for 2024: the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek and the Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft. The first outing takes place in Juneau , where you'll paddle a 12-person canoe across Mendenhall Lake to reach the towering glacier. Prepare to be surrounded by the spectacular setting of Tongass National Park, a 400-foot waterfall and an Arctic tern nesting ground. The second excursion, also in Juneau, takes participants on a flight into the Alaska wilderness via floatplane; you'll then paddle across a pristine glacial lake and hike the surface of Norris Glacier. Unforgettable sights along the way include densely forested mountains; the mouth of the Taku Inlet, a waterway that offers access to Juneau Icefield; and plenty of wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles.

Also new for 2024 is the option to take the Denali Talkeetna Explorer tour after your cruise. (This cruisetour previously only took place prior to the voyage.) The 13-day sea and land package, Denali Talkeetna Explorer – Northbound Cruisetour, is available on three dates in 2024 in combination with a Norwegian Jewel sailing. The package includes a seven-night cruise; a total of six nights in Fairbanks, Denali and Talkeetna; a stop at the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline; a riverboat cruise in Fairbanks; a visit to an Iditarod dog musher's kennel; a deluxe glass-domed Alaska Railroad journey between Fairbanks and Denali; and more. You'll also have free time to book optional shore excursions like whitewater rafting, park tours, helicopter flightseeing and other outdoor adventures.

Insider tip: If you're sailing on Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Encore, be sure to grab a front-row seat in the Observation Lounge when sailing in Glacier Bay Park & Preserve. This expansive space on Deck 15 at the bow of the ship offers breathtaking panoramic views from the comfort of inside the ship. 

Royal Caribbean International

Alaska cruise ships: Radiance of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Ovation of the Seas Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $439 per person for seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas, Seward to Vancouver on May 24, 2024

Royal Caribbean International offers seven-night cruise-only Alaska options (some featuring the Inside Passage) and extended cruisetours (lasting nine to 13 days) with land portions before or after the voyage. Cruisetours may visit Denali National Park & Preserve, among other highlights. The line also offers select "kids sail free" itineraries, which will appeal to families.

If you want nonstop entertainment while on board, choose one of Royal Caribbean International 's two larger Quantum Class vessels: Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas. Both megaships accommodate approximately 4,900 passengers. If you prefer a smaller ship, consider booking one of the Radiance Class vessels, which hold a maximum of around 2,500 guests.

Quantum Class ships have multiple outdoor attractions that provide panoramic views of the scenery. For example, the surf simulator, FlowRider, affords views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers all around the ship. If you're adept at rock climbing, this is another chance for optimal scenic viewing – at 40 feet above the deck. Additional entertainment includes free-fall skydiving at RipCord by iFly, outdoor movie nights, live performances and musical entertainment, bumper cars, an escape room, a sports court and indoor pools for those cool Alaska summer days.

Insider tip: For more awe-inspiring vistas, take a ride on North Star. Exclusive to Royal Caribbean (on Quantum and Ovation of the Seas), the glass-enclosed capsule rises 300 feet above sea level while suspended over the ocean.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Solstice Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $397 per person for seven-night voyage on Celebrity Summit, Seward to Vancouver on May 17, 2024

Adventure-seeking couples will have many options to choose from during Celebrity Cruises ' 2024 Alaska season. The line's six- and seven-night cruise-only itineraries include up-close views of the Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the world's longest tidewater glacier at 76 miles long. For an in-depth exploration of Alaska's interior, Celebrity's cruisetours extend the trip to a maximum of 13 nights and feature small-town destinations like Talkeetna, Alaska – the quirky village that inspired the 1990s television show "Northern Exposure." There are also themed tours centered on wildlife viewing and national parks, as well as culinary tours highlighting the flavors of Alaska.

Couples will also find plenty of adult-focused activities and entertainment on board, no matter which vessel they choose. Each ship offers a spa, multiple bars and lounges, and an excellent selection of complimentary and specialty restaurants. Celebrity's three Alaska-bound ships carry between 2,158 guests (Celebrity Summit) and 2,908 passengers (Celebrity Edge). Celebrity Edge, the newest of the ships, offers immersive entertainment and especially beautiful public spaces – like Grand Plaza, a three-story venue at the heart of the vessel.

For extra privacy during your couples' vacation, consider splurging on a suite or villa in The Retreat. This all-inclusive space features luxurious accommodations; a private lounge; a sundeck (unavailable on Celebrity Solstice); and a private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat. The swanky culinary venue serves dishes curated by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. In addition, you'll have a team of attendants, butlers and concierges to indulge every whim.

Insider tip: Book your Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge. The outward-facing design of the ship and expansive outdoor spaces, including the Magic Carpet, offer guests excellent viewing opportunities of Alaska's vast landscapes, calving glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales in the Inside Passage and around Juneau and Sitka.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Alaska cruise ships: Seven Seas Explorer Departure cities: Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $4,699 per person (all-inclusive) for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on May 1, 2024

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer will spend the 2024 season in Alaska, with the first sailing embarking from Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 1, 2024. The line offers 20 seven-night voyages and two 14-night sailings between May and September. The 746-passenger ship provides an in-depth exploration of Alaska's wilderness, thanks to the vessel's smaller size and all-balcony suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include free unlimited shore excursions (though select tours come with a fee); complimentary fine wines and spirits; dining at specialty restaurants; 24-hour room service; unlimited Wi-Fi access; prepaid gratuities; free valet laundry service; and more. Depending on the suite category, guests may also receive a pre- and post-cruise hotel stay with their voyage.

Complimentary shore excursions are available in a number of Alaska ports. In Ketchikan, sign up for the Tongass Rainforest Expedition, the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show or the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafest. (Note: Some excursions in Ketchikan, such as the Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining option, come with an additional fee.) In Juneau, guests can take the complimentary hiking adventure through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area, home to black bears, mountain goats and other wildlife. Cruisers can also dine on wild Alaska salmon grilled over a fire at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shore excursions during your cruise. These are tours you'd normally have to pay for on a ship that's not all-inclusive – and that can add up quickly.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Silver Nova , Silver Muse , Silver Shadow Departure cities: Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $3,450 per person for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on Silver Muse on Aug. 1, 2024

Debuted in August 2023, Silversea's latest addition, Silver Nova, is the newest luxury vessel sailing Alaska for the 2024 season. Silver Nova features an asymmetrical design and advanced technologies that make it Silversea Cruises ' most environmentally friendly vessel yet. With just 728 guests, spacious suites (some affording 270-degree views) and outdoor spaces showcasing The Great Land's pristine wilderness, Silver Nova is an excellent luxury option for an Alaska adventure. Silversea offers seven-night itineraries on its three Alaska ships, plus longer voyages on Silver Muse and Silver Shadow.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include pre- and post-cruise hotel stays; complimentary nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; in-room minibars; gourmet dining; all gratuities; at least one excursion per port; butler service in every suite; and other upscale amenities. Complimentary Alaska excursions include a scenic railway tour aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway in Skagway, the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest in Sitka Sound and more. You can also visit the Iditarod dogs' summer camp in Juneau. For an additional cost, Silversea offers more exclusive experiences, like a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier followed by a dogsledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies in Juneau, or a remote fly-fishing trip in Sitka.

Insider tip: Spend some time on Deck 10; you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the heated pool, thanks to the asymmetrical design of the pool deck.

UnCruise Adventures

Alaska cruise ships: Wilderness Discoverer, Wilderness Legacy, Safari Endeavor, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest Departure cities: Ketchikan, Juneau, Whittier, Dutch Harbor and Sitka, Alaska; Seattle Starting from: $3,600 per person for seven-night cruise, Juneau to Ketchikan (or reverse itinerary) on Wilderness Discoverer; various dates between April and September 2024

UnCruise's expedition-style small ships call on ports and remote areas in Alaska that larger ships can't access, taking guests to locales that the line coins, "UnAlaska." The five ships operating in The Great Land accommodate between 22 passengers (Safari Quest) and 86 guests (Wilderness Legacy), and there are seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries to choose from. You can also book optional land tours, including a Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure. Expedition teams take guests on kayaking, skiffing, paddleboarding, bushwhacking, waterfall walks and hiking excursions close to the glaciers and visit secluded areas and waterway passages known for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cruise fares include group transfers to and from the ship; all meals; premium wine, beer and liquor; all nonalcoholic beverages; daily activities; wellness amenities; onboard heritage and expedition guides; and access to guest experts. You'll need to disconnect from your devices in remote areas, as there is no Wi-Fi access on UnCruise vessels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, book the 14-night Alaska's Fjords & Glaciers Bay Adventure Cruise on Wilderness Discoverer, a 76-passenger ship. This voyage includes birding in the South Marble Islands, where you'll see puffins, cormorants, oystercatchers and other bird species. You can also search for brown bears in Corner Bay, bushwhack in old-growth forests, visit the town of Haines to sample local brews and spirits, and more.

UnCruise has introduced a few new cruises for 2024 with a renewed focus on The Great Land. One of these is the Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay cruise. The seven-night, family-focused voyage departs round-trip from Juneau aboard Wilderness Legacy and is available on three dates between June and July. One highlight of the voyage is exploring off-the-grid in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve's "Outback."

A second new option is the seven-night Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise. This adventure visits dozens of glaciers; the small fishing village of Cordova; the Harriman and College glacial fjords; the islands of Knight and Montague; and multiple places where you can see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins and other wildlife. The itinerary is offered round-trip from Whittier, Alaska, on Safari Explorer throughout the summer.

Insider tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to hop in a skiff directly off the ship to watch bears along the shore hunt for salmon just 100 feet away. This is an Alaska experience you can only have when sailing on a small ship.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Antarctica Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in new hampshire.

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

The Best Scotland Tours

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan and Ann Henson June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024