Avoid the hustle and bustle on foot and discover Venice’s landmarks from the water.
Glide through the Grand Canal aboard a stylish boat, passing iconic bridges, historic palaces, and charming lesser-known waterways where daily Venetian life unfolds.
With just eight guests per vessel, this exclusive tour ensures a personal, relaxed experience, with your guide sharing captivating stories throughout the journey.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Piazzale Roma
- Piazzale Roma or / St Mark square or / hotel pick up
Step aboard a sleek, luxury motorboat
Step aboard a sleek, luxury motorboat and take in Venice from its most iconic perspective—by water
. As the Grand Canal winds through the heart of the city, you’ll cruise past centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and elegant bridges, all brought to life by your expert guide’s engaging commentary.
See renowned sites like Ca' d’Oro, Ca' Pesaro, the Rialto Bridge, and Accademia Gallery from a privileged angle, and learn about the history, art, and legends behind these celebrated landmarks.
Your adventure doesn’t stop there. You'll veer off the main canal into Venice’s tranquil inner waterways—its hidden “back alleys”—for a peek into the quieter, more authentic side of the city where locals go about their day-to-day lives.
A True VIP Experience
This isn’t your typical gondola ride. While gondolas are charming, they can’t navigate the Grand Canal effectively. Instead, you’ll travel in comfort and style on a fast, elegant motorboat that lets you see more in less time.
Prefer to relax inside and listen to your guide through your audio headset? Or would you rather step outside for unobstructed views and unforgettable photos? The choice is yours. Either way, the tour is designed to be intimate, informative, and unforgettable.
Discover Venice’s Iconic and Hidden Gems
From the majestic Doge’s Palace and the domes of St. Mark’s Basilica, to the lesser-known corners only locals know about, this journey combines must-see landmarks with off-the-beaten-path treasures.
By the end of your tour, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Venice—not just as a destination, but as a living, breathing city filled with rich history and vibrant culture. You’ll step off the boat feeling enriched, inspired, and connected to La Serenissima in a truly special way.
Ending Point
St Mark Square.
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Grand Canal by private boat
St. Mark’s Square
Doge's Palace (exterior)
Bridge of Sighs (exterior)
Cemetery of San Michele (exterior)
Rialto Bridge
Rialto fish market (exterior)
Accademia Bridge
Palaces, including the Ca' d’Oro and Ca' Pesaro (exterior)
One-hour private motorboat ride
Local English-speaking guide
Small group of 8 guests maximum
Headsets
Personal expenses.
Food/drinks.
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
The Tour can be started in the morning or afternoon, or during the day
Availability and Customization
I’m available every day, with tours tailored to suit your schedule and interests. All of my tours are fully customizable, so feel free to send me a message with your specific requests or any special places you'd like to explore. I’m here to help create the perfect experience for you!
Al, Authorized Tour Guide in Venice
Hello! I’m Al, an authorized tour guide based in Venice, and I’m passionate about sharing the beauty and rich history of this incredible city. I was born in Pretoria, South Africa, I had the privilege of growing up in a diplomatic family, which allowed me to travel widely and experience different cultures from an early age.
I hold a Master's degree in Administration from the American University, which has given me a strong foundation for both my academic and professional pursuits. However, my true calling lies in guiding people through history, art, and culture.
Having worked as a tour guide in various countries and across Italy for many years, I’ve developed an intimate knowledge of Venice’s art, architecture, and stories. Guiding visitors here is not just my job – it’s my passion. Venice is my home, and I am deeply connected to its history and its glory.
As a historian and author of several guides and articles, I aim to make each tour an enriching experience, blending historical insights with a genuine love for this magnificent city. My mission is to ensure that every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding of Venice’s cultural heritage and a sense of awe at its beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the hidden gems of the city or marveling at its iconic landmarks, I’m here to provide you with an unforgettable experience, one that celebrates Venice’s incredible legacy.
$485/ per group