Top 5 Boat Experiences in Venice: Summer Tours You’ll Love from May to July

Venice in summer is a dream — shimmering canals, warm sunsets, and gentle breezes from the lagoon. But there’s no better way to explore the city than by boat. From May to July, the waters of Venice come alive with authentic, scenic, and unforgettable boat tours for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic sunset cruise, a family ready to island-hop, or an adventurer eager to sail off the beaten path, these boat experiences offer the perfect mix of beauty, relaxation, and discovery.

Want to see Venice from the water and beyond? Discover its majestic history with this Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s tour for a deeper dive into the city’s iconic past.

Here’s your guide to the top 5 boat tours to enjoy in Venice this summer.

1. Island-Hopping Tour: Murano, Burano and Torcello

One of the most popular and enriching tours in Venice is a day trip to the three iconic islands of the northern lagoon.

• Murano: Known worldwide for its traditional glass-making techniques. Many tours include a visit to a local glass workshop.
• Burano: Famous for its brightly painted houses and delicate lacework. It’s also a perfect spot for photography and a peaceful stroll.
• Torcello: The most tranquil of the three, offering ancient churches, nature trails, and a glimpse of early Venetian history.

These full- or half-day boat tours are ideal for families and travelers seeking a cultural and scenic escape from the main crowds.

2. Venice by Sail: Private Sailing Experiences in the Lagoon

For those craving something more serene and exclusive, sailing tours around the Venetian Lagoon offer a unique way to experience the city’s watery surroundings.

• Enjoy several hours or even full-day sails aboard traditional or modern sailboats.
• Many tours include swimming stops, aperitifs on board, and views of hidden islands and canals.
• Some routes allow you to discover lesser-known places like Sant’Erasmo, San Francesco del Deserto, and small fishermen’s harbors.

It’s perfect for romantic getaways or a relaxing day surrounded by water, sky, and the beauty of Venice.

3. Sunset Cruise with Aperitif

There are few experiences in Venice more magical than watching the sun set over the canals and skyline, cocktail in hand.

• These evening boat tours typically start around 6:30–7:00 PM, just as the golden hour begins.
• Most include a glass of Prosecco or a Venetian spritz, paired with light snacks or cicchetti.
• You’ll float along the Giudecca Canal, admire San Giorgio Maggiore, and watch the city bathe in orange and pink light.

A must-do for couples, photographers, and anyone who wants to capture Venice at its most enchanting moment.

4. Venice by Night: After-Dark Boat Tours

While many tourists explore Venice during the day, nighttime boat tours reveal a quieter, more mysterious side of the city.

• You’ll sail past softly lit palaces and hear the water lap gently against the boats.
• Some night tours include local storytelling, live music, or guided commentary about Venice’s hidden past.
• Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and reflective waters make this a soothing and sensory-rich experience.

Ideal for night owls and travelers who enjoy the intimate, poetic side of Venice.

5. Special Events on Water: Join the Local Celebrations

From May to July, Venice hosts traditional boat parades and regattas that transform the canals into festive stages.

• Vogalonga (usually in May/June): A peaceful rowing marathon that celebrates non-motorized boats and lagoon heritage.
• Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare (June): A historic boat race between the four old maritime republics — Venice, Genoa, Amalfi, and Pisa — complete with medieval costumes.
• Redentore Weekend (July): The most spectacular summer event, featuring fireworks, floating picnics, and temporary bridges over water.

Joining a boat tour during one of these events offers a rare and authentic look into Venetian tradition and festivity.

Conclusion: Discover Venice Through Its Waters

Venice was built to be explored by boat. And from May to July, there’s no better way to experience the soul of the city than by gliding through its lagoon, uncovering hidden treasures, and relaxing with the rhythm of the waves.

Whether you choose a romantic sunset cruise, an island adventure, or a night tour full of charm, these boat experiences will show you a Venice that few travelers truly get to know.