Chioggia may be less famous than nearby Venice, but it offers an authentic Venetian experience with fewer crowds and more local charm. Its canals, lagoon, and fishing traditions make it a perfect place for unique boat tours. We particularly enjoy the boat excursions that give a closer look at life on the water, like the Venetian Lagoon and Canals Boat Tour, which offers a relaxed way to see Chioggia from a local’s perspective. This tour stands out because it takes you aboard a traditional Topa boat, guided by a captain with local knowledge. It’s a great choice if you want a personalized experience that avoids the crowds of Venice and dives into the heart of lagoon life.
If you’re after a more atmospheric experience, the Sunset Tour in the Venetian Lagoon offers a magical way to watch the sky change colors over the water. For those interested in evening ambiance and a quieter, more intimate setting, this small-boat cruise is a perfect fit. And for an entirely different perspective, the Night and Full Moon Tour provides a chance to see Chioggia in a whole new light—literally.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each tour, helping you decide which adventure best matches your interests and travel style.
1. Chioggia: Venetian Lagoon and Canals Boat Tour
At number 1 on our list, this Venetian Lagoon and Canals Boat Tour offers a 1.5-hour journey aboard a traditional Topa boat. The tour departs from Via Don Eugenio Bellemo and makes several stops—Fondamenta Lungolaguna, Del Buon Castello, Vigo Bridge, Canal Vena, and Fondamenta S. Domenico—each lasting about 10 to 20 minutes. The route offers a more intimate and relaxed way to explore Chioggia’s canals and the surrounding lagoon.
This tour is highly rated with a 4.9/5 from 77 reviews, with travelers praising Damiano, the knowledgeable guide, for sharing insights into the history and daily life of the area. Reviewers mention how this experience is a valuable alternative to crowded Venice, allowing a closer look at authentic lagoon life. The small boat makes for a peaceful, personalized experience, and the cost of around $65 per person is seen as excellent value considering the personalized approach.
Key highlights include seeing the lagoon from a local’s point of view and enjoying the scenery without the crowds. The trip is ideal for anyone wanting a relaxed, informative, and authentic boat ride. The only potential downside is the limited duration, but overall, it’s a top choice for serious lagoon lovers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a charming, insider perspective perfect for travelers seeking a calm, hands-on experience of Chioggia’s canals and lagoon.
2. Chioggia: Sunset Tour in the Venetian Lagoon by boat
At number 2, the Sunset Tour in the Venetian Lagoon combines the beauty of Chioggia with the magic of evening light. This 1.5-hour trip departs in the late afternoon, giving you a chance to experience the lagoon as the sun drops. For $65, you get to enjoy private, small-boat access, making it perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a romantic outing.
The tour is highly rated with 4.8/5 from 24 reviews. Passengers emphasize Damiano’s engaging narration and the unforgettable views during sunset. Many mention how the boat slows down to let guests take photos and appreciate the scenery. The tour’s intimacy and focus on local views make it a special experience, especially during the golden hour.
The highlights include viewing Chioggia’s skyline at dusk, close-up encounters with lagoon scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere with only your loved ones aboard. It’s an ideal option if you want an evening escape that balances scenic beauty with quiet time on the water.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantics and those wanting a memorable, serene experience at day’s end, this tour offers a beautiful viewpoint of Chioggia’s lagoon at sunset.
3. Chioggia: Boat Night Tour and Full Moon Tour
For those who love a night adventure, the Night and Full Moon Tour is a standout. This 1.5-hour excursion takes you through Chioggia’s canals after sunset, for a truly different perspective on the town. With a small boat and personalized experience, it’s the perfect choice for night owls or those curious about how the lagoon transforms after dark.
This tour has a perfect 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, with guests praising Damiano’s storytelling about Chioggia’s older, atmospheric side. Reviewers mention that the experience was “more than just a boat ride,” with engaging commentary on the city’s history and the lagoon’s night-time activity. The tour’s flexibility, including watching sunset moments during the cruise, makes it stand out.
Highlights include the quiet, starry waters, the local ambiance, and a chance to see Chioggia from a completely different angle. Since it’s relatively short, it’s best suited for night lovers or a relaxed evening activity. The tour costs about $65 per person, representing good value for a unique, memorable experience.
Bottom line: If you’re up for a peaceful, atmospheric cruise under the stars or the full moon, this tour offers an enchanting way to experience Chioggia’s waters after dark.
4. Chioggia: discover aquaculture techniques in a typical boat
At number 4, this Discover aquaculture techniques tour dives into the fishermen’s world, passing down generations of tradition. This 1.5-hour experience takes you to areas where clams, mussels, and Moleche—soft-shell crabs—are harvested. Led by Damiano, the tour emphasizes the craftsmanship and techniques behind Chioggia’s seafood industry.
Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this tour appeals to those interested in local livelihoods and food traditions. Guests appreciate Damiano’s enthusiasm and knowledge about lagoon aquaculture, citing it as a “great discovery.” The tour is tailored for those curious about fisheries, sustainable practices, and lagoon ecology.
The experience is especially good for food lovers and eco-conscious travelers who want an up-close understanding of the seafood they enjoy. The small-boat setting enhances the personalized feel, and the tour’s focus on local techniques adds depth to a simple boat ride.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in the fisheries and aquaculture practices that sustain Chioggia, this tour offers an engaging, informative look into lagoon life.
How to Choose
When deciding which Chioggia tour to pick, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. If you want a comprehensive lagoon experience with local insights, the Venetian Lagoon and Canals Boat Tour is hard to beat. For a romantic or sunset experience, the Sunset Tour offers breathtaking scenery. Night owls or those seeking a more atmospheric adventure should consider the Night Tour, while seafood enthusiasts or eco-interested travelers will appreciate the Aquaculture Tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially for evening and sunset tours, which tend to fill up. Also, check availability during your travel dates, as these tours are popular in warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Chioggia offers a variety of authentic boat experiences that highlight its lagoon, fishing, and local life. For a relaxed, informative cruise, the lagoon and canal tour is ideal. If you’re seeking romance or atmospheric photography, the sunset or moonlit tours will hit the mark. And for those fascinated by fisheries and local traditions, the aquaculture experience provides an eye-opening look into Chioggia’s livelihood.
No matter which tour you choose, these outings promise a more personal, less touristy view of a town that’s just as characterful as Venice but with its own quiet charm. Remember to book early, pack a camera, and prepare for unique moments on Italy’s beautiful lagoon.