Punta Sabbioni is a prime launching point for boat tours and cruises in the Venetian Lagoon. Unlike Venice itself, where narrow canals wind through crowded streets, Punta Sabbioni offers a more relaxed base with easy access to the surrounding islands. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure, a quick visit to Murano and Burano, or a romantic sunset cruise, the options are diverse and well-suited for different interests. Among the tours we’ve reviewed, we particularly like the full-day guided tour because it combines multiple islands with rich stories and authentic experiences, like watching glassblowing in Murano or admiring colorful houses in Burano.
If you’re trying to decide which boat adventure fits your mood, budget, and schedule, keep reading. We’ve broken down three top choices, highlighting what makes each unique and who they’re best for.
Quick Overview
This list features three well-regarded boat tours from Punta Sabbioni, each offering different lengths, themes, and experiences:
- A full-day guided tour exploring Murano, Burano, and Torcello with live commentary (details here)
- A half-day trip focusing on Murano and Burano, ideal for a shorter afternoon outing (details here)
- An evening sunset cruise with prosecco, perfect for couples or travelers looking for a romantic, scenic experience (details here)
Below you’ll find a detailed look at each tour, including what’s included, reviews, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Punta Sabbioni: Murano, Burano & Torcello Guided Boat Tour
This full-day guided boat tour offers a comprehensive look at three of Venice’s most iconic islands. For around $39.86, you get about seven hours of sightseeing, with stops at Torcello’s ancient cathedral, the vibrant houses of Burano, and Murano’s historic glass factories. The tour is perfect if you want a structured, informative experience that combines sightseeing with cultural demonstrations.
Starting from Via Lungomare S. Felice, the tour kicks off with a cruise across the Venetian Lagoon—offering picturesque views that make the early morning ride worthwhile. On Murano, you’ll see live glass blowing, which is not only fascinating but also a chance to purchase authentic souvenirs. In Burano, the brightly colored houses are perfect for photos, and you’ll have time to wander and enjoy local lacework. The stop at Torcello features a visit to the cathedral with Byzantine mosaics—a quiet, historic spot that contrasts with the lively island life elsewhere.
What makes this tour stand out is the live commentary and the chance to learn about the islands’ history while enjoying a scenic cruise. The reviews are solid, with an average of 4.3 out of 5 from 189 travelers, many praising the well-organized itinerary and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full-day, immersive trip with expert insights, and plenty of time to explore each island.
2. From Punta Sabbioni: Murano and Burano Islands Boat Tour
For those short on time or looking for a quick immersion, this half-day tour offers a focused trip to Murano and Burano. Priced at about $34 per person, it lasts roughly 4.5 hours. It’s an excellent choice if you want just a taste of the lagoon islands without the longer commitment of a full day.
This tour includes a sightseeing cruise of about 45 minutes, giving you the chance to soak in the lagoon’s scenery en route. In Murano, you’ll see a glass furnace demonstration, which is included in the entry fee—an engaging way to watch master artisans shape molten glass. Then, you’ll have about an hour to explore Murano’s shops and streets before heading to Burano, where you’ll spend approximately 75 minutes wandering its colorful streets and browsing local lace shops.
Guided in multiple languages, including English, Italian, and German, this tour offers practical convenience with organized logistics—you won’t waste time figuring out transit or tickets. Reviewers mention the easy-to-follow schedule and the quality of the glass demonstration as highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors on a time crunch who want a smooth, guided experience of two famous islands.
3. Punta Sabbioni: Venice By Night and Sunset Panoramic Cruise
If you’re craving a romantic evening or a different perspective on Venice, this sunset cruise combines scenic views with the magic of golden hour in Venice. At about 3.5 hours and priced at $39.86, it’s a bit shorter but offers a memorable, atmospheric experience.
The cruise departs from Via Lungomare S. Felice and takes you across the Venetian Lagoon for roughly 1.5 hours during sunset, when the sky’s colors cast a beautiful glow on the water and city skyline. You’ll enjoy prosecco and sweets onboard, making it perfect for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic ride. After the cruise, you’ll have free time in Venice by night—a chance to wander, enjoy dinner, or snap photos of St. Mark’s Square under the lights. The tour includes guidance in Italian, German, and English, plus a brief sightseeing cruise before returning.
Reviewers appreciate the romantic setting and ease of organization, with many mentioning it as a highlight of their Venice trip. The ATVO bus connection makes returning to Cavallino or Jesolo straightforward, adding convenience.
Bottom Line: Great for couples, sunset lovers, or travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic experience combined with free time in Venice.
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your priorities. If you want a full-day deep dive into Venice’s islands with rich commentary and multiple stops, the guided tour (Tour #1) is your best bet. For a shorter, more focused visit to Murano and Burano, the half-day tour (Tour #2) offers simplicity and efficiency. If a romantic sunset cruise sounds appealing, then the evening tour (Tour #3) provides a relaxed, picturesque outing with a special atmosphere.
Consider your budget—the half-day tour is the most affordable—your available time, and whether you’re visiting with family, a partner, or solo. Booking early is advisable, particularly for the sunset cruise, which can fill up quickly during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Punta Sabbioni offers a surprisingly wide range of boat experiences for all types of travelers. If your goal is to explore Venice’s famous islands fully, the full-day guided tour delivers a comprehensive, well-paced experience. For a quick but rich taste of Murano and Burano, the half-day option is a smart pick. And for those seeking a sunset romantic adventure, the evening cruise promises a memorable view of Venice’s skyline.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance is wise. Each tour provides a unique way to see the Venetian Lagoon—so pick the one that fits your schedule and style, and enjoy the waterways that make this region truly special.