Voga Veneta: a unique rowing tradition to discover and try

Voga Veneta is one of the Venice Lagoon’s oldest and most fascinating traditions. It’s a rowing technique that’s unlike any other in the world. It allows you to row standing up and facing the bow, offering a completely different experience to traditional rowing. As well as being a symbol of the Serenissima, Voga Veneta is still an integral part of the lagoon culture, with spectacular events and the opportunity for visitors to challenge themselves first hand.

Unique in the world: the features of Voga Veneta

This rowing technique stands out from the rest because the person rowing stands on the boat facing the direction they are heading. This detail is not just a stylistic difference, it has a fundamental practical value, allowing you to move easily through the canals with complete control, even in the narrowest spaces.

Voga Veneta began as a transportation technique when Venice was a city on the water and there were no roads. Gondolas and other traditional Venetian boats had to be carefully maneuvered through narrow waterways, and the rower’s upright position guaranteed a perfect view. Even today, Voga alla Veneta is not only a sport, but a true symbol of identity for Venice and its inhabitants.

The Voga Veneta regattas: unique shows to experience on a houseboat

Voga Veneta is not just a technique, but also an exciting competition. Every year, from May to September over 120 regattas are held, with races that test the skills of both experts and promising young rowers in the lagoon tradition.

If you’re planning a houseboat holiday, attending one of these regattas can turn your trip into an even more engaging experience. Imagine being on board your boat, anchored at a strategic point, and witnessing one of the lagoon’s most exciting battles!

Here are some of the most important and unmissable regattas:

• Sant’Erasmo Regatta (May): one of the first competitions of the season, dedicated to the "Venetian countryside".
• Sant’Andrea Regatta (June): a historical event celebrating the defense of the Serenissima.
• Malamocco Regatta (July): one of the most charming events, which takes place in the waters of the southern lagoon.
• Regata Storica of Venezia (September): the most famous and spectacular regatta, which attracts rowers and spectators from across the globe.

With over 120 events held during the summer you’ll easily find one of these displays during your holiday. We can help you find the event for you.

Enjoy the thrill of Venetian rowing

Watching a regatta is a fascinating experience, but if you want to truly experience the lagoon spirit, why not try Venetian rowing yourself? Nowadays you can book lessons in Voga Veneta and learn this age-old technique directly from Venetian master rowers.

During a lesson, you will:

• Discover the secrets of this unique technique.
• Climb aboard a typical Venetian boat and experience the feeling of rowing standing up.
• Cruise along the less touristy canals and see Venice from an authentic perspective.

Contact us to receive all the information you need to book a lesson for you or your crew.

Experience Venetian rowing during your houseboat holiday

A houseboat holiday allows you to freely explore the Venetian lagoon in comfort, getting closer to local traditions and experiencing Venetian rowing as either a spectator or participant. You can organize your trip to coincide with a major regatta or book a lesson to learn this extraordinary rowing style.

Discover a different way to experience Venice through history, sports and culture, aboard your houseboat!