Venice: SantErasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour

Venice is famously a city of canals, but sometimes the best way to see its less-known sides is from the water itself. The Venice: SantErasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour offers a refreshing way to experience the lagoon’s natural beauty and historic sights away from crowded piazzas and busy boats. This tour takes you around some of the most intriguing islands, like SantErasmo and Vignole, and past landmarks such as the SantAndrea Fort and Lazzaretto Nuovo, all from the perspective of a paddle in hand.

What I love about this experience is how it combines environmentally friendly exploration with a sense of discovery. You get closer to the lagoon’s natural habitat, marine life, and historic sites than you could from a motorboat or walking tour. Another highlight? The small group size—limited to just four participants—means you’ll receive personalized attention and can truly savor the peaceful, unhurried atmosphere.

On the downside, this tour requires a moderate level of physical activity and some comfort with paddling, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or lesser fitness levels. Also, since it’s a kayaking experience, it doesn’t include the use of motorized boats, so you’ll need to buy a water bus ticket to reach Sant’Erasmo from Venice, which adds a small extra step to the planning. Still, the unique perspectives on Venetian lagoon life are well worth it.

Key points / Takeaways

• Eco-friendly exploration with no motor noise, perfect for those seeking a quieter, more natural Venetian experience.
• Access to hidden sights like Lazzaretto Nuovo and SantAndrea Fort, often missed on traditional tours.
• Small group size ensures personalized guidance and a more intimate adventure.
• Learn paddling techniques and safety measures—ideal if you’re new to kayaking or want a confidence boost.
• Stunning lagoon views that are best appreciated from the water, including panoramic vistas of Venice’s skyline from Certosa island.
• Cost-effectiveness considering the inclusion of a guide, kayak, and safety gear, making it a good value for an active outdoor experience.

Exploring Venice’s Lagoon by Kayak: An Authentic and Eco-Friendly Approach

Venice is a city best known for its canals, but the lagoon itself is a vast waterworld filled with islands, marshes, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. The Venice: SantErasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour offers a rare chance to see Venice from a fresh angle—by paddling through its waters—without the noise of engines or the crowds of travelers. Guided by Valerio Coppo of Detourist, this four-hour experience is designed for those who want a closer connection to Venice’s natural environment and historic sites while enjoying a bit of outdoor activity.

I find the concept of exploring Venice by kayak both refreshing and engaging. It allows you to float peacefully past verdant islands like SantErasmo and Vignole, known as the “vegetable gardens” of Venice, offering a glimpse into the city’s agricultural roots. The tour also includes visits to sites like Lazzaretto Nuovo, where quarantine practices originated in the Middle Ages, and the 16th-century SantAndrea Fort, built to defend the city from enemies. The final stop at Certosa island grants sweeping views of Venice’s skyline, a moment to take in the city’s beauty from a different perspective.

Two things stand out as particular delights: first, the personalized guidance and paddling instruction, which helps beginners feel confident even on calm lagoon waters; and second, the opportunity to see parts of Venice that are only accessible by boat. As one reviewer puts it, “You get access to sights that are only accessible by small boats like kayaks,” making this experience feel exclusive and authentic.

The main consideration? This tour is physically demanding enough to require some mobility and stamina. Plus, since the activity doesn’t include motorized transport, visitors need to purchase a water bus ticket to Sant’Erasmo themselves—an extra step but easily manageable. The total cost, around $165 per person, is quite reasonable given the personalization, guide, and equipment included, especially as it offers a genuinely different view of Venice.

What to Expect During the Tour

Meeting and Preparation at Caffegelato

Your adventure begins at the Caffegelato bar, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow participants. Expect a brief introduction to paddling techniques and safety measures, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the water. Guides like Valerio are known for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge, which enhances the experience.

Paddling Through the Lagoon

Once on the water, the calm lagoon makes for an easy paddle—ideal if you’re new to kayaking or simply want a relaxed outing. The guide will lead you past the SantAndrea Fort, a historic military structure that was built to defend Venice. It’s fascinating to see a piece of Venice’s defensive history from a close yet peaceful vantage point. Continuing towards Lazzaretto Nuovo, you’ll learn how the island was used during the Middle Ages as a quarantine station—an intriguing slice of history little seen by most visitors.

Discovering the Islands

Your route takes you through the lush, vegetable-growing islands of SantErasmo and Vignole. These islands are a stark contrast to Venice’s busy streets—quiet, green, and full of local life. As you paddle, you might observe marine life, waterfowl, and marshlands, capturing photos of a side of Venice often hidden behind crowds.

Final Views from Certosa Island

The tour concludes at Certosa island, where you get a panoramic view of Venice’s skyline—an iconic backdrop that is often missed from the streets. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on your journey and appreciate the lagoon’s vastness and beauty.

End of Tour and Additional Tips

The kayaking adventure wraps up back at the starting point. Remember, you’ll need to arrange your own water bus ticket to reach Sant’Erasmo if you’re coming directly from Venice. To make the most of your day, bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and a change of clothes, as the tour involves some physical effort and water contact.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who enjoys being outdoors, values eco-friendly travel, and wants a fresh perspective on Venice, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for active travelers, curious explorers, and people keen on discovering Venice’s lesser-known islands. Those with limited mobility or a preference for less physical activity might find kayaking challenging, but the guide is attentive to safety and comfort.

For history buffs, the visit to Lazzaretto Nuovo and SantAndrea Fort adds a layer of depth, connecting you to Venice’s defensive and health-related past. Photographers will appreciate the chance to capture the lagoon’s tranquil scenery and panoramic views.

This experience is suited for travelers comfortable with a 4-hour activity that involves paddling, and who enjoy small, intimate groups. The limited size of four participants ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere and allows your guide to tailor the trip to your interests.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $165.40 per person, including guide, kayak, life vest, and paddle, the tour offers good value for a carefully curated, eco-friendly adventure in Venice’s lagoon. The price might seem steep compared to standard boat rides, but the intimacy, local insights, and access to hidden sites make it worthwhile.

The tour’s duration of four hours strikes a good balance—long enough to explore multiple islands and landmarks, but not so long as to tire you out. The small group size enhances the experience by allowing for more interaction and personalized guidance.

Since the activity does not cover transportation to the islands, you’ll need to purchase a water bus ticket if you’re arriving from Venice. This adds a small extra cost but is straightforward and easily arranged on-site or in advance.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Dress in outdoor clothing and bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, water, and a change of clothes. Water shoes or sandals are recommended for comfort.
• Arrive at Caffegelato on time to meet your guide and avoid delays.
• If you’re concerned about paddling, don’t worry—your guide will give clear instructions to help you paddle confidently.
• Remember, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.
• The water bus ticket to Sant’Erasmo can be purchased on-board, so don’t worry if you forget.

Authenticity and Unique Value

What sets this kayaking tour apart from other Venetian excursions is its emphasis on authenticity and environmental harmony. Instead of riding in a motorized boat, you’re actively participating in the water environment and getting a real sense of the lagoon’s quiet beauty. The guide’s insights about the islands’ history and ecology enrich the experience, making it more than just a paddle on the water.

Many reviews praise the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, describing the experience as “a different side of Venice” that’s hard to find elsewhere. The chance to see Lazzaretto Nuovo and SantAndrea Fort up close provides a tangible link to Venice’s past—something you won’t get from standard sightseeing routes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This kayaking tour is best suited for travelers seeking a hands-on, eco-friendly way to enjoy Venice’s lagoon. It’s perfect if you prioritize authentic experiences over touristy crowds and want a memorable, active outing. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate history, nature, and panoramic views to complement their Venice visit.

If you’re looking for a unique, intimate adventure that combines light exercise with a deep connection to Venice’s lagoon environment, this tour delivers on all counts. Just be prepared for some paddling, and you’ll leave with a fresh perspective on this iconic city.

FAQ

Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No, the guide provides paddling techniques and safety instructions, making it accessible even for beginners.

Is it suitable for children?
The activity is generally suitable for those comfortable with paddling and active outdoor pursuits, but it’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at the Caffegelato bar in Venice. You’ll need to arrange your own water bus ticket to Sant’Erasmo if coming directly from the city.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, water, and outdoor clothing. Water shoes or sandals are recommended.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is conducted with a live guide speaking Italian, German, and English.

In all, the Venice: SantErasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, historical insight, and active outdoor fun. It’s an authentic way to experience Venice’s lagoon that rewards curious travelers eager to see a quieter, greener side of this iconic city.