Vogalonga

Join us for an unforgettable rowing holiday at the Vogalonga in Venice from June 6th to 9th, 2025! This iconic event is more than a race—it's a 30 km celebration of Venetian maritime heritage. It was founded in 1974 as a protest against motorboats and to promote sustainable transport in the city. Since then, the Vogalonga has become a vibrant tradition, with thousands of participants passing through the canals and lagoons of Venice and landmarks like St. Mark’s Basin, Burano, Murano, and the narrow canals of Cannaregio.

The event

The Vogalonga is an annual non-competitive rowing event held in Venice, Italy, typically in late May or early June. Founded in 1974 as a peaceful protest against the damage motorboats caused to Venice's delicate lagoon ecosystem, the event has since grown into a major celebration of the city's maritime traditions. Thousands of rowers, from seasoned athletes to casual enthusiasts, participate in this 30 km journey through Venice's canals, lagoons, and islands.

The route begins with participants gathering in the iconic St. Mark's Basin, where a cannon marks the event's start. Rowers then navigate past Venice's famous landmarks, including the islands of Burano and Murano, before making their way through the narrow canals of Cannaregio and finishing back near St. Mark's. The event features various rowing boats, from Venetian-style boats to modern kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

The Vogalonga emphasises community, tradition, and environmental awareness. It draws thousands of participants worldwide, making it a spectacular showcase of rowing and Venetian culture.