The Navigli Boat Tour in Milan offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s historic canal system. Cruising along the tranquil waterways, passengers can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the origins of Mascarpone cheese. While taking in the sights, they can enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages and snacks. With its accessibility and year-round operations, the tour provides a captivating way to explore Milan’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this boat tour promises to reveal a side of the city you never knew existed.
Key Points
- The Navigli Boat Tour offers a one-hour cruise along Milan’s historic canal system, providing an opportunity to discover the origins of Mascarpone cheese.
- The tour highlights include passing by renowned landmarks such as Casa di Ringhiera and San Cristoforo church, as well as crossing bridges designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
- The cruise departs from and returns to Alzaia Naviglio Grande 4, and is accessible to wheelchair and stroller users.
- The tour typically lasts around 1 hour and has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
- The tour may be suspended due to inclement weather, and refunds are provided for unused portions in case of weather-related cancellations.
Overview of the Boat Cruise
The Navigli boat tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Milan’s historic canal system, providing passengers with an approximately one-hour cruise along the charming waterways.
The tour departs from Alzaia Naviglio Grande 4, allowing visitors to discover the origins of famous Mascarpone cheese and witness landmarks like Casa di Ringhiera and San Cristoforo church.
As the boat glides through the 14 navigation basins that connect Milan and Pavia, passengers can cross iconic bridges designed by Leonardo da Vinci, including the Scodellino and Conchetta.
The cruise culminates at the vibrant Darsena, known for its lively bars and clubs.
With an audio guide available and the option to enjoy alcoholic beverages and snacks, the Navigli boat tour provides a delightful way to experience Milan’s rich waterway heritage.
Tour Highlights and Attractions
As the boat glides along the historic canals, passengers can catch glimpses of Milan’s renowned landmarks, including the Casa di Ringhiera and the San Cristoforo church.
Along the way, they’ll discover the origins of the creamy Mascarpone cheese and see the Canottieri Milano Olona, a historic rowing club.
The tour also passes by the charming Vicolo dei Lavandai, where washerwomen once gathered, and reaches the lively Darsena district, home to bars and clubs.
Crossing bridges like the Scodellino and the Conchetta, designed by the legendary Leonardo da Vinci, passengers experience the 14 navigation basins that once connected Milan to Pavia, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and architecture.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Depending on the selected option, the Navigli Boat Tour includes the boat cruise itself as well as an audio guide.
For those who choose the aperitif option, the tour also provides alcoholic beverages and snacks.
The tour departs from the Alzaia Naviglio Grande 4 in Milan and returns to the same meeting point.
Wheelchair and stroller users can access the boat.
The tour lasts approximately one hour and takes guests through the iconic Navigli canals, passing by historic landmarks and offering a unique perspective of the city.
However, the tour may be suspended in case of inclement weather.
Meeting Point and Transportation
The Navigli Boat Tour departs from the Alzaia Naviglio Grande 4 in Milan and returns to the same meeting point. Wheelchair and stroller users can access the boat, making the tour accessible to all travelers.
After embarking, the cruise meanders through Milan’s historic Navigli canals, crossing bridges like Scodellino and Conchetta designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Along the way, the boat passes by landmarks such as Casa di Ringhiera and San Cristoforo church.
At the end of the approximately 1-hour journey, the tour concludes back at the original meeting location, allowing visitors to further explore the Darsena area with its bars and clubs.
Duration and Group Size
The Navigli Boat Tour typically lasts approximately 1 hour, providing a concise yet immersive experience for visitors.
The tour has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized excursion through Milan’s historic canals.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely afternoon on the water or an opportunity to discover the city’s rich canal heritage, this boat tour offers the perfect balance of duration and group size.
With just enough time to soak in the sights and sounds, and a small enough group to feel connected to the experience, the Navigli Boat Tour is an ideal way to explore this unique aspect of Milan’s vibrant culture.
Weather Considerations
Although the Navigli Boat Tour typically runs regardless of weather conditions, it may be suspended in case of severe inclement weather for the safety and comfort of guests.
The tour operators closely monitor the local weather forecast and will make the decision to proceed or cancel the tour accordingly.
If the weather takes a turn for the worse during the tour, the boat captain may choose to cut the trip short and return to the starting point.
Guests will be refunded for any unused portion of the tour in the event of a weather-related cancellation or early termination.
The safety and enjoyment of participants is the top priority for the Navigli Boat Tour.
Reviews and Ratings
Customers rave about the Navigli Boat Tour, with 137 reviews attesting to its popularity. The tour consistently earns high ratings, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to explore Milan’s historic canals.
| Rating | Number of Reviews | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 5 stars | 85 | 62% |
| 4 stars | 38 | 28% |
| 3 stars | 10 | 7% |
| 2 stars | 3 | 2% |
| 1 star | 1 | 1% |
Guests appreciate the tour’s informative commentary, the chance to learn about the history and origins of local specialties, and the scenic views of the city’s charming canals and landmarks. With overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Navigli Boat Tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Milan.
Additional Information
Along With the overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Navigli Boat Tour offers several convenient features for travelers. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and customers receive confirmation at the time of booking.
However, the tour may be suspended in case of bad weather.
With a maximum group size of 50 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience while exploring Milan’s historic canals. The boat cruise lasts approximately one hour, allowing guests to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing outing or a unique perspective of the city, the Navigli Boat Tour is an excellent choice for visitors to Milan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator may offer alcoholic beverages and snacks as an option for an additional fee on some tours.
Do I Need to Know Italian to Understand the Audio Guide?
You don’t need to know Italian to understand the audio guide on this tour. The audio guide is typically available in multiple languages, so you can choose the one you’re most comfortable with.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour. However, guests should be mindful not to obstruct other travelers’ views or the tour guide’s narration. Check with the tour operator for any specific photography restrictions prior to the tour.
Can I Get a Refund if I Miss the Meeting Time?
If you miss the meeting time, you may not be able to get a refund. Many tour operators have strict policies about late arrivals and don’t offer refunds for missed departures. It’s best to arrive on time to ensure you don’t miss the tour.
Is There a Dress Code for the Boat Cruise?
There’s typically no strict dress code for boat cruises. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, as you’ll be outdoors on the water. Dress for the weather conditions to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Recap
The Milan Navigli Boat Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s historic canals and discover its renowned landmarks.
Passengers can enjoy the aperitif option while cruising past iconic bridges and navigating the 14 basins.
The tour is accessible and generally operates regardless of weather, making it a convenient and captivating way to experience Milan’s waterways.
