Venice: Sunset Lagoon Cruise by Traditional Boat & Prosecco

Summary

Venetian sunset cruise with prosecco and city views from the water

You’ll step onto a traditional Venetian boat with a small group and local skipper, glide past landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and San Giorgio Maggiore, sip Prosecco as sunset colors spill over the lagoon, and hear stories about Venice’s islands—all while feeling far from any crowds.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget how the boat felt under my feet—kind of wobbly at first, but then you get used to it. We met our skipper near the Salute Church, and right away he started telling us little stories about Venice (his accent was thick, but honestly, that made it better). The air had that salty-lagoon smell, mixed with something sweet drifting from a bakery on shore. There were only eight of us on board, so it felt like we’d lucked into a secret.

As we drifted past St. Mark’s Basilica and out toward the open lagoon, I tried to pronounce “bragozzo” properly—Li laughed when I tried to say it in Italian (I definitely butchered it). The sky started turning gold behind San Giorgio Maggiore. Our guide pointed out San Lazzaro degli Armeni and told us about the monks who live there—apparently they make jam? Didn’t expect that. He handed around chilled Prosecco (half a bottle each—generous) and soft drinks for anyone who wanted them. I sipped mine slowly; the bubbles tasted almost floral as we floated past Le Vignole’s vegetable gardens.

The light kept changing every minute—orange, then pink, then this weird lavender color over the Lido. Someone asked about the Venice Arsenal and our skipper explained how they built ships faster than anyone else in Europe back in the day. My mind wandered a bit watching the ripples behind us, and I realized how quiet it was compared to the city crowds. No music or anything—just water lapping against wood, distant church bells somewhere across the lagoon.

It ended too soon for me. We glided back toward St. Mark’s Square just as all those famous domes went shadowy against the last bit of sun. There’s no restroom on board (so yeah—go before you leave), but honestly I didn’t care by then. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear seagulls at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Venice sunset cruise and sightseeing

• Board traditional Venetian boat
• Cruise through St Mark's Basin
• Pass Santa Maria della Salute church
• Pass Island of San Giorgio Maggiore
• Pass San Lazzaro degli Armeni island
• Pass St. Mark's Square
• Pass Venice Lido island
• Pass Le Vignole island
• Pass Venice Arsenal shipyards
• Glide across Venetian Lagoon
• Enjoy half bottle of Prosecco
• Watch sunset colors over Venice

Top questions

How long does the Venice sunset cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours on the Venetian Lagoon.

Is Prosecco included during the sunset cruise?

Yes, half a bottle of Prosecco per person is included in your tour.

Where does the Venice sunset cruise depart from?

The tour usually starts near Santa Maria della Salute in Venice.

Are soft drinks available for non-drinkers?

Yes, soft drinks are available on request if you prefer not to have alcohol.

How many people are on each boat?

The group size is limited to 11 people per boat for an intimate experience.

Is there a restroom on board?

No, there is no restroom on board; use facilities before departure.

Which landmarks will we see during this cruise?

You’ll pass St. Mark's Basilica, San Giorgio Maggiore, San Lazzaro degli Armeni, Le Vignole, Venice Lido and more.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the designated dock location in Venice.

What’s included

Your evening includes a spot aboard a classic Venetian bragozzo or sampierotta boat with an expert local skipper-guide leading your small group across the lagoon; half a bottle of chilled Prosecco per person; soft drinks if you ask ahead; all transport between islands; and easy boarding right in central Venice before returning after sunset.