Row Venice is a non-profit group of committed women and skilled vogatrici who are both native and adopted Venetians and that offers the incredible opportunity to Row like a Real Venetian. The organization is committed to preserving the traditional Venetian “cultura acquea”, which has at its core in “voga alla veneta”, the Venetian way of rowing that has been made famous by gondoliers. Many women of the organization participate in this Venetian sport that is as old as the city itself as athletes and regatanti.
Rowing is one of the most thrilling and authentically Venetian activities you can engage in, so come row with Row Venice!
First, you will be introduced to a traditional batelina, which used to be one of the city’s most popular crafts. These boats are now incredibly rare but are fantastic for beginners, since they are stable and comfortable. Then, with the boat still tied, your trainer will focus on the fundamental stroke for rowing at the prow, giving a demonstration and then having each participant trying. As you cruise along a broad, tranquil canal, you will have some practice. Then, as you enter the open lagoon, you’ll be invited to try rowing a poppa, which involves controlling the boat yourself from the stern.
Venture off the usual roads and onto the Venetian waterways in a lovely “bateline”… Try the experience Row like a Real Venetian, being yourself the gondoliere!