Venice’s charm isn’t just in its winding streets and historic piazzas; it’s in the water that surrounds it. The city’s lagoon setting makes it a perfect place for sailing adventures. Whether you want a laid-back cruise with music and drinks, an elegant classical music sail, or a private yacht experience, Venice offers options that turn water into a moving postcard. One favorite of ours is the Venice: Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks, which combines comfort, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a wonderful way to see the city from the water without the fuss of a crowded gondola. For a more intimate experience, the VIP Private Luxury Boat Tour – Riva Aquariva Yacht Venice delivers style and exclusivity, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging.
Venice’s sailing experiences go beyond traditional boat rides. You can enjoy the city’s skyline after sunset on a Venice by Night Catamaran Cruise, with live music and fewer crowds, or take a Lagoon Lunch Cruise on Catamaran, combining a delicious meal with scenic sailing. These tours highlight Venice’s waterway beauty and make for memorable moments. For those who want to learn the basics of sailing and explore the islands, a Venice Sailing Cruise to northern lagoon offers hands-on experience. Whatever your preferences, Venice’s sailing tours promise a unique perspective on the city and its lagoon.
1. Venice: Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks
At number 1, this Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks captures the essence of relaxed water-based sightseeing. For just $45.55 per person, you get 1.5 hours of sailing around the Venetian Lagoon aboard a spacious catamaran. The experience stands out for its combination of soothing music, comfortable seating, and refreshing drinks like Spritz or prosecco. You’ll sail past iconic sights such as San Marco and glide out towards the Lido, enjoying scenic views and a gentle breeze.
The crew is praised for being friendly, and guests love the relaxed atmosphere—”An amazing way to see Venice, the catamaran was very clean and comfortable,” says one review. With a rating of 4.8/5 from over 350 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking a laid-back cruise with great photo ops. The only potential drawback is that it’s a short trip, ideal for a quick overview rather than a full day. This tour suits travelers who want to combine scenic water views with a relaxing drink in hand, without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic escape on the water with music, drinks, and easy comfort.
2. Catamaran Spritz Tour
At number 2, the Catamaran Spritz Tour offers an even more affordable, relaxing water experience at $19 for approximately 1.5 hours. With a perfect 5-star rating from 94 reviews, this cruise is all about unwind and view Venice from a peaceful vantage point. The boat is spacious with ample seating, and the open deck invites you to lie down or sit comfortably while enjoying chill-out music and a free glass of prosecco. The route passes sights like Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and Santa Maria della Salute, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Guests appreciate the laid-back vibe—”Highly recommend! Crew very nice and attentive,” writes a reviewer. Some mention that the deck was temporarily closed during certain visits, so check availability if that’s important to you. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a casual, low-key way to see Venice’s shoreline, especially if you prioritize comfort and affordability. With a well-paced route and included drink, this tour hits the sweet spot for relaxed sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful cruise with great views and a refreshing spritz.
3. Venice by Night Catamaran Cruise
Number 3 on our list, the Venice by Night Catamaran Cruise offers a romantic 1.5-hour evening sail for $68.78. This cruise reveals Venice in a different light as the city’s lights shimmer on the water and fewer travelers are out. You’ll glide past San Marco, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and along the Canale della Giudecca, all while sipping prosecco or spritz. Live music, featuring a tenor saxophone, adds a charming soundtrack to the experience, enhancing the feeling of serenity.
Guests describe this tour as “fabulous” and “breathtaking,” especially the evening views. The 5-star reviews highlight the calm atmosphere and the beautiful cityscape. It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, peaceful way to see Venice after dark. The moderate price reflects the quality and exclusive nighttime ambiance—an experience that feels special but isn’t overly expensive.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for a romantic night cruise with live music and stunning sunset views.
4. Venice: Night Catamaran Cruise of the Lagoon
Number 4, the Night Catamaran Cruise of the Lagoon offers a similar night experience for $67.97, with a slightly longer duration of about 1.5 hours. The tour features live tenor saxophone music and a spacious, elegant catamaran where you can walk around freely. Drinks including prosecco, spritz, and cocktails are included, making it a great romantic outing or a relaxing evening activity.
Guests rave about the fabulous views and the live saxophone as a real highlight. The cruise departs from the same meeting point as other tours and offers a more intimate way to enjoy Venice’s nighttime ambiance. It’s suited for travelers looking for a romantic, musical experience with enough space to move around and take photos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, music-filled night cruise.
5. La Serenissima: Lagoon Cruise on Catamaran with Classical Music
Number 5’s Lagoon Cruise with Classical Music provides a more refined, elegant experience. For around $69, you’ll listen to composers like Vivaldi, Bach, and Chopin while drifting through the lagoon on a spacious, stylish catamaran. The cruise lasts about 90 minutes and offers incredible views of Venice’s islands and the Biennale Gardens.
This tour stands out because of its classical soundtrack, which enhances the tranquil atmosphere. Reviewers mention that it’s a relaxing way to slow down and appreciate Venice’s landscape while enjoying a glass of prosecco or spritz. It’s ideal for culture lovers or those wanting a refined, music-focused experience. Its moderate price makes it a good value considering the setting and ambiance.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fans of classical music and elegant, relaxing water cruises.
6. VIP Private Luxury Boat Tour – Riva Aquariva Yacht Venice
Number 6, the VIP Private Luxury Boat Tour delivers the pinnacle of exclusivity. For about $2,123 per group, up to five people can enjoy a 4-hour private cruise aboard the stunning Riva Aquariva yacht. This tour takes you around Venice and its islands, including a visit to Poveglia, Murano, Burano, and Torcello. The boat is a symbol of style, blending luxury and comfort with personalized service.
Guests describe this tour as “an unforgettable experience,” praising the opportunity to see Venice from a private perspective. You’ll be able to customize stops and enjoy champagne, along with insights from your skipper. The price is high, but the value for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime experience is unmatched. It’s perfect for travelers who seek luxury in a private setting and don’t mind splurging.
Bottom Line: For those celebrating a special event or craving a personalized, high-end water adventure, this is the top choice.
7. Venice Boat Tour with Aperitif and Music on a Sailing Boat
Number 7 offers a sailing experience aboard a traditional Hanse 470e, with a small group of up to 10. The Venice Boat Tour with Aperitif and Music lasts about 2.5 hours, priced at $94. The tour departs from Marina di Sant’Elena, and you’ll enjoy sailing to St Mark’s Basin and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, with live music and a welcome toast.
Guests enjoy the authentic sailing experience—the sails fill with wind, and the boat moves quietly among Venice’s waterways. The tour includes snacks, fruit, and drinks, creating a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Its small-group setting makes it ideal for couples or those who want a more personal experience while learning about Venice from a knowledgeable skipper.
This tour excels for travelers wanting an authentic sailing adventure with a convivial vibe, especially if they appreciate music and a cozy onboard atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for sailing enthusiasts and those wanting a more hands-on water experience with a social touch.
8. Venice: Lagoon Lunch Cruise on Catamaran
Number 8, the Lagoon Lunch Cruise on Catamaran offers a delightful way to combine scenic sailing with light lunch on the water. For $67.97, you cruise for about 1.5 hours, enjoying chill-out music, comfortable seating, and views of San Marco Bay and the Giudecca Canal.
Guests note that the tour is perfect for a relaxing break in the middle of sightseeing, with some criticism about the portion size of the meal. Still, the included drink and easy pace make it a good value. It’s suitable for travelers looking for a casual dining experience combined with scenic views—ideal for families or couples wanting a simple, enjoyable water trip.
Bottom Line: Great for a casual, scenic, and light lunch break on the water.
9. Private Boat Tour with Skipper Sailing the Lagoon of Venice Italy
Number 9’s Private Boat Tour with Skipper offers a custom 3-hour experience. For $113.49 per person, you get to explore the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello aboard an open boat, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way. The tour includes visits to a Murano glass factory, and a walk on Torcello—places that reveal the more authentic side of the lagoon.
Guests love the personalized, relaxed pace and the opportunity to learn about the islands’ history. The boat is comfortable, and the guide’s insights make the experience special. This tour suits travelers seeking flexibility and a deeper dive into Venice’s islands without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a private, tailored water tour with cultural stops.
10. Venice Sailing Cruise to northern lagoon
Number 10, the Venice Sailing Cruise offers a full-day adventure for up to 8 people at $559.41. This hands-on sailing trip includes learning the basics of sailing, a fish lunch on board, and visits to uninhabited islands and Burano. It’s perfect for sailing enthusiasts wanting more than just sightseeing—they want to be part of the crew.
The tour’s main appeal is its interactive nature—you’ll learn to exploit the wind, navigate, and enjoy the experience of sailing in the lagoon. Guests rave about the personalized attention and the chance to see Venice from a truly unique perspective. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with physical activity and eager to learn.
Bottom Line: For those who want a comprehensive, participatory sailing experience, this is the ultimate tour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Venice Sailing Experience
When selecting a sailing tour in Venice, consider your budget, time available, and what kind of experience you’re after. For relaxation with drinks and music, tours like the Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks or Venice by Night Cruise are excellent choices. If you’re looking for luxury and exclusivity, the VIP Private Yacht will satisfy. Those wanting a more hands-on and cultural experience should consider the Private Skipper Tour or the Northern Lagoon Sailing.
Think about location and duration—some tours start from Santa Elena, others from the main pier, with durations from 1.5 hours to full-day adventures. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the private yacht or sunset cruises.
Final Thoughts
Venice offers a surprising variety of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. For understated relaxation, the Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music delivers comfort and scenic views. For luxury and privacy, the Riva Aquariva Yacht is unmatched. And if you’re eager to learn how to sail or explore the islands from a local perspective, the more participatory tours will satisfy your curiosity.
Whatever you choose, a day on Venice’s waters is sure to be a highlight—so don’t wait too long to reserve your spot and enjoy Venice from a different angle.