Venice is a city built on water, and what better way to experience its charm than from the lagoon? Boat tours and cruises offer a unique perspective, revealing hidden corners, colorful islands, and stunning views that you simply can’t get from land. Whether you prefer a peaceful private ride, a lively sunset cruise, or a cultural island-hopping trip, Venice’s waterways are your gateway to unforgettable moments. I have a soft spot for the sunset jazz cruise, with its perfect blend of music, golden light, and the gentle sway of a traditional Venetian boat, but numerous options await every type of traveler.
In this guide, you’ll find a detailed look at 15 of the best boat tours and cruises in Venice. From small-group private adventures to extensive island-hopping excursions, each offers a different way to see Venice from the water. Whether you’re into glassmaking, lace, or simply want to relax with a drink while watching the sunset, there’s a perfect match here.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of boat experiences in Venice: private boat tours, guided group trips, panoramic cruises, sunset and jazz cruises, and even exclusive luxury options. Many tours include visits to iconic islands like Murano, Burano, and Torcello, with opportunities to see master glassblowers and lace artisans at work. Prices range from budget-friendly options ($28) to luxury private rides over $300. Some tours focus on culture, like the private boat tour in the Venice Lagoon, while others emphasize scenic relaxation, like the lagoon catamaran cruise with music. Each offers a different slice of Venice’s aquatic life and is worth considering based on your interests and pace.
1. Murano & Burano Guided Tour by Private Boat with Glassmaking
At number 1, this private boat tour combines the charm of Murano and Burano with the intimacy of a personalized experience. You’ll be picked up from Venice by private boat, making the transfer seamless and luxurious. The tour includes a visit to a Murano glass workshop—where you’ll see artisans blow glass and explain their craft—and a walk through Burano’s brightly painted streets, famous for handmade lace. You even get to take home a lace keepsake, following in Michelangelo’s footsteps. The tour lasts around 5 hours, balancing sightseeing with free time for shopping or exploring. With a 4.7/5 rating from over 5,000 reviews, it’s a favorite for those looking for a relaxed, in-depth experience away from crowds. The small group size and private boat make it ideal for couples or families wanting a luxurious, personalized day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a bespoke, cultural day with expert guides and authentic artisan experiences in Venice’s lagoon.
2. Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands
Ranked second, this group tour offers a budget-friendly way to see three iconic Venetian islands in just under six hours. You’ll cruise from Venice with stops at Murano, Torcello, and Burano, with plenty of free time—about 45 minutes in each place. You’ll witness master glassblowers at work in Murano, enjoy a stroll in the peaceful Torcello, and marvel at Burano’s colorful houses. It’s a well-organized trip, with reviews praising the easy meeting points and multilingual guides. The tour’s value is clear at $34 per person, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and the opportunity to see Venice’s lagoon’s diverse scenery. It’s suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and free exploration without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: An excellent, affordable way to tick off Venice’s top islands in a single day, especially for those on a tight schedule.
3. Venice: Burano, Torcello & Murano Boat Tour w/Glassblowing
Number 3 on our list is a 6-hour panoramic boat trip that combines comfort with stunning views. Traveling with a multilingual host, you’ll glide over the lagoon to each island, enjoying free time and a glassblowing demonstration in Murano. This tour emphasizes the picturesque scenery—the colorful houses of Burano, the quiet charm of Torcello—and includes a live glassblowing show. Guests often comment on the relaxed pace and the quality of the experience, with many saying they wished for more time on Burano. At $34, it’s a great value, especially considering the included demonstration. Ideal for travelers who want a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural sights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, comfortable tour perfectly suited for those who want scenic beauty with educational flair.
4. Venice: Murano and Burano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit
Coming in at number 4, this tour offers flexibility and depth with options for visits spanning 4.5 to 7.5 hours. You’ll explore Murano’s glassmaking traditions and Burano’s colorful streets, with time to relax and shop. The tour features a visit to a renowned glass factory, where master artisans demonstrate their craft. Reviews highlight the high-quality service and the chance to see Murano’s glassblowing up close. This experience is perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and leisurely exploration, with pricing at $34 for a shorter trip or longer options available. It’s especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive day with the ability to customize.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want the flexibility of extended hours or shorter visits, with a focus on craftsmanship.
5. Venice: Murano & Burano Panoramic Boat Tour w/ Glassblowing
At number 5, this guided day trip combines scenic cruising with cultural highlights. You’ll see Venice’s skyline and then visit Murano for a demonstration, followed by free time in Burano. The boat’s comfort and style make it a relaxing way to explore. Reviewers describe it as “great value” and “well organized,” noting that the glassblowing demonstration is particularly impressive. It costs just $28, making it one of the most affordable options that still delivers a memorable experience. Suitable for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day with a touch of craftsmanship.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious visitors seeking a scenic, easy-paced tour with authentic artisanship.
6. Venice Sunset Cruise by Typical Venetian Boat
Number 6 is an intimate sunset cruise limited to just 11 people, which makes it ideal for romance or quiet reflection. For about 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’ll sail past St. Mark’s Basin and Venice Lido, with breathtaking views bathed in the glow of the setting sun. Plus, a half bottle of Prosecco adds a celebratory touch. The reviews consistently mention the “amazing sunset” and “personalized experience,” making this a top choice for couples and those celebrating special occasions. The cost of $110.06 is justified by the exclusivity and stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended option for lovers of quiet, beautiful moments and a special Venetian sunset.
7. Venice: Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks
Number 7 features a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise on a spacious catamaran. You’ll enjoy the wind in your hair, a glass of prosecco or Spritz, and soothing background music, all while cruising past landmarks like San Marco and Lido. Reviewers love the comfort and the chance to capture Venice from the water, with many noting it as a “highlight” of their trip. The $45.55 price level makes it accessible for most travelers, especially those seeking a relaxing break from busy sightseeing days.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a laid-back, scenic water experience with drinks and music, perfect for unwinding.
8. Venice Sunset Jazz Cruise with Aperitivo and live Saxophone
Number 8 is a romantic, musical sunset cruise, limited to 11 participants. For 90 minutes, you’ll glide through Venice’s canals while enjoying live jazz, a glass of prosecco, and the glow of the setting sun. Guests repeatedly praise the “magical atmosphere” and “fantastic music,” making it ideal for music lovers or couples celebrating a special night. The $92.69 price reflects the intimate setting, live entertainment, and premium experience.
Bottom Line: For an atmospheric, musical evening on Venice’s waters, this cruise hits all the right notes.
9. Venice: Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks
Rated 4.8/5, this catamaran cruise offers a fun, relaxed way to see Venice’s lagoon with soothing tunes and a drink in hand. It lasts about 1.5 hours, passing San Marco and Lido, with reviews noting “great service” and “beautiful views.” It’s priced at just over $45, making it an affordable, enjoyable cruise for anyone looking to relax on the water.
Bottom Line: A friendly, scenic cruise well suited for anyone wanting a casual, enjoyable water ride.
10. Private Boat Tour in the Venice Lagoon
Number 10 offers an intimate 1-hour private boat experience, perfect for couples or small groups. You’ll visit the southern lagoon, enjoy breathtaking views, and even catch the sunset if timing aligns. Reviewers mention “friendly, knowledgeable guides,” and the personalized nature makes it ideal for a romantic or special occasion. The experience costs $82.94 per person, delivering a peaceful, private escape from crowds.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples seeking a personalized, serene water tour at a reasonable price.
11. Private Boat Tour to Murano, Burano and Torcello
This three-hour private tour offers a completely customizable itinerary around Venice’s most popular islands. You’ll visit Murano for glassmaking, Burano for colorful streets, and Torcello for history, all in a private boat with your own guide. Reviews praise the personalized service, with many saying it’s “more than 5-star,” and great for couples wanting a relaxed, exclusive experience. The cost is $247.76 per person, reflecting the privacy and tailored approach.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want complete control and a luxurious, private day on the water.
12. Private Boat Tour in the Venice Lagoon
Number 12 emphasizes personalized service with a 5-star private boat experience. You can customize the route, visit key islands, and enjoy a laid-back cruise with expert commentary. Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the “breathtaking views.” Costing $82.94 per person, it’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a bespoke Venetian adventure.
Bottom Line: For those preferring a tailored, intimate water trip, this private tour offers both flexibility and comfort.
13. Venice: Grand Canal Boat Tour
Number 13 features a classic Grand Canal cruise, lasting an hour, showcasing Venice’s iconic palaces, Rialto Bridge, and Della Costituzione bridge. Reviewers love the “incredible scenery” and “informative guide,” making it a popular choice for first-timers wanting a quick, scenic overview of Venice. It costs $51.24, offering good value for a classic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, scenic introduction to Venice’s most famous waterway.
14. Exclusive Boat Tour Murano Burano Torcello with real local guide
Number 14 is a private, guided tour led by a true Venetian, giving you insider access and stories you won’t find elsewhere. The four-hour experience includes visits to a Murano glass factory, a lace workshop in Burano, and a peaceful Torcello. Guests mention the guide’s local knowledge and the personal touch that elevates this tour. Priced at $169, it’s best for those who want an immersive, authentic experience in a small group.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a deeply personal, culturally rich day with a local guide.
15. Venice Islands Guided Cruise: Murano, Burano & Torcello
The final entry is a guided scenic cruise lasting 5-6.5 hours. It features a master glassblower in Murano, lace artisans in Burano, and a visit to Torcello’s abbey. Guests appreciate the comprehensive narration and the chance to learn about lagoon life. It’s a good choice for those wanting an educational, relaxed day with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in a full, educational overview of Venice’s islands with guided insights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Venice Boat Tour
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and what interests you most. If you want a luxury private experience, look at the private boat tours. For a relaxing, scenic cruise with drinks and music, the lagoon catamaran or the sunset jazz cruise are excellent choices. Families or first-timers might prefer the comprehensive island-hopping tours.
Book early, especially for popular sunset or private tours, as Venice’s water-based adventures fill quickly. Think about how much time you want to spend on each island and whether you prefer a guided or independent experience. Keep in mind that some tours include artisan demonstrations—like glassblowing or lace—adding a cultural touch that enriches your visit.
Venice’s waterways are the city’s arteries, and exploring them through these boat tours offers a richer, more memorable experience. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset, a private day with a local guide, or just want to see the colorful islands from the water, there’s a perfect cruise waiting. Early booking is recommended—Venice’s waters are popular, and these tours often sell out, especially in peak season. Dive in early, and enjoy the best of Venice from the water.