Full Day Luxury Riva Aquariva Venice Tour

Venice isn’t just a city of winding canals and historic piazzas; it’s a place best experienced from the water. For those seeking an intimate, luxurious day away from the crowds, this private Riva Aquariva tour offers a perfect blend of elegance, authenticity, and discovery. Priced at around $4,294 for up to five guests, the 8-hour excursion takes you across Venice’s iconic sights, into its islands, and into the heart of its centuries-old artisan traditions.

What makes this experience truly special is its personalized approach. From the moment we were picked up to the last sip of local wine at the end of the day, the emphasis on comfort and exclusivity was evident. Two standout features for us? First, the chance to see Venice from a unique vantage point—aboard a sleek, private Riva boat—and second, the carefully curated visits to Murano, Burano, Torcello, and Mazzorbo, each offering a distinct taste of Venetian life.

One potential consideration? This tour costs more than typical group excursions, but the level of personalized service, private transportation, and exclusive access more than justifies the price for travelers who value comfort and unique experiences. This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants to enjoy Venice in style.

If you’re craving an authentic, elegant day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to learn about local crafts and taste regional wines, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

Exclusive private experience aboard a luxurious Riva Aquariva boat
Immersive visits to Murano glassmaking, Burano lace, and Torcello’s mosaics
Food and wine: a traditional Venetian lunch and optional wine tasting on Mazzorbo
Prime views of Venice’s landmarks from the water, including San Marco and the Doge’s Palace
Small, intimate group ensures personalized attention and flexibility
Cultural depth with artisan visits, local cookies, and a scenic route through historic islands

A Truly Unique Way to See Venice

Venice is best experienced by foot, but from the water? That’s when its true magic shines through. This full-day luxury tour starts with a scenic glide past St. Mark’s Square, giving you an up-close view of the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs—perfect for photos and a sense of place. From there, the journey aboard the Riva Aquariva is smooth and stylish, setting the tone for a day of sophisticated exploration.

What we loved most was the personalized atmosphere. The private transportation, complete with a restroom on board, meant we could relax without the hustle of large groups. The boat’s sleek design made every moment feel like a VIP experience, and we especially appreciated the stop at San Giorgio Maggiore for stunning views and a complimentary glass of Prosecco. It’s a thoughtful touch that captures the essence of Venetian elegance.

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Exploring the Islands: Murano, Burano, and Torcello

Murano: The Heart of Glassmaking

No trip to Venice is complete without visiting Murano. We loved the opportunity to see a working glass furnace and watch a master glassblower, Maestro Fabio Fornasier, perform his craft. His secret exhibition—rarely open to the public—was a highlight, revealing the incredible artistry behind Venetian glass. Visiting one of the oldest factories emphasizes Venice’s artisan legacy, and the chance to see live glassblowing makes this stop truly memorable.

Burano: An Artist’s Palette

Next, we sauntered through Burano’s colorful streets, lined with houses painted in vibrant shades. The island’s famed lace traditions are still alive here, and a guided visit to a handmade lace workshop gave us insight into this centuries-old craft. Tasting the island’s bussolai cookies added a sweet touch, and the picturesque scenery was perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Torcello: The Primitive Venice

For a change of pace, we visited Torcello, now a quiet natural reserve. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta features remarkable Byzantine mosaics, reminiscent of what you might find in Istanbul. The quiet, almost untouched landscape provided a peaceful contrast to bustling Venice—ideal for a lunch in a historic restaurant like Locanda Cipriani, which is renowned for its storied past.

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Wine and Vineyard Experience on Mazzorbo

Following lunch, the tour continues to Mazzorbo, a small island famous for its Venissa vineyard. If you choose the optional wine tasting, you’ll learn about the resilient viticulture project that has revived native Venetian grapes. It’s an inspiring story of biodiversity and craftsmanship, culminating in tasting exquisite local wines that reflect the island’s unique terroir.

While the wine tasting isn’t included in the base price, many guests find it well worth the small extra cost, especially given the chance to savor high-quality, native Venetian wines in a tranquil setting.

The Final Touch: Return and Reflection

As the day wraps up, the boat skirts Venice’s historic Arsenal, a symbol of the city’s maritime power, before returning you to the starting point. Along the way, you can enjoy Venetian cookies and local wine—a lovely way to reflect on a day filled with stunning views, artisan traditions, and intimate discoveries.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At over $4,200, this experience isn’t cheap. But for those who value personalized service, luxury, and authentic access to Venice’s artisans and hidden islands, it offers incredible value. The private boat, expert guides, and exclusive visits ensure you’re experiencing Venice in a way that most visitors never do. It’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion or for travelers who prefer comfort and exclusivity over crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits small groups or couples looking for a refined, private experience. It’s perfect if you want a luxurious day out, with plenty of opportunities to learn about Venice’s artisan crafts, sample local wines, and enjoy the stunning landscapes from a sleek vessel. If your priority is authenticity and comfort, and you’re willing to spend a bit more for that experience, this tour will satisfy those expectations.

The Sum Up

This Full Day Luxury Riva Aquariva Venice Tour offers a rare combination of luxury, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s designed for travelers who want to enjoy Venice in style without sacrificing depth or authenticity. From the iconic waterside views to intimate visits into the world of glassmaking, lace, and local wine, it’s a day that balances splendor with substance.

While the price may seem steep, the quality of experience makes it worthwhile for those who value personalized service, exclusive access, and authentic Venetian craftsmanship. If you’re celebrating something special or simply want to indulge in a more refined way of discovering Venice, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, a restroom on board, snacks like Venetian cookies, water, soft drinks, Prosecco, and local wine.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but the tour offers a stop at a famous restaurant, like Locanda Cipriani, where you can enjoy a traditional Venetian meal.

Can I taste wine during the tour?
Wine tasting on Mazzorbo is optional and not included in the base price. It can be arranged upon request.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts around 8 hours, with multiple stops and scenic cruising through the lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the experience is best suited for adults or older children who appreciate art, history, and wine.

What makes this tour different from other Venice excursions?
Its private, luxury setting combined with exclusive artisan visits and scenic island stops offers a personalized, high-end experience.

Is it worth the cost?
For those who value comfort, exclusivity, and authentic Venetian craftsmanship, yes. It’s a premium experience that delivers on its promise of style and substance.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its exclusivity, booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date and ensure a seamless experience.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a luxurious, personalized day in Venice, blending scenic beauty with artisan traditions—a perfect choice for those who want to experience Venice like royalty while truly understanding its soul.