Venice’s intimate canoe and kayak tours cut through the tourist crowds, offering a water-level look at this magnificent city.
The best small-group excursions paddle through quiet back canals and past major landmarks, letting you experience Venice as the locals do.
I especially love the early morning Arsenal tours – they dodge the midday chaos and provide fascinating insights into Venice’s mighty shipbuilding past.
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the guided trips to Sant’Erasmo and Vignole islands reveal a peaceful, authentic side of Venice that most visitors never see.
Sunset tours are particularly magical, with the golden light reflecting off palace walls as you glide beneath bridges.
These carefully chosen tours maximize your time and let you truly connect with Venice’s timeless character.
Check my recommended kayak experiences below.
Key Points
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Explore Venice’s hidden canals and architectural gems on a 2-3 hour guided kayak tour that provides a unique perspective of the historic city.
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Enjoy a serene sunset kayak adventure through the iconic Venetian waterways and discover lesser-known routes for a more immersive experience.
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Participate in a cultural kayak tour that combines paddling instruction with a visit to a historic rowing club, offering insights into Venice’s maritime traditions.
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Opt for a small-group kayak tour (up to 6 participants) to navigate the tranquil lagoon, visit remote islands, and witness the city’s stunning natural landscapes.
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Choose a quick 45-minute to 3-hour kayak tour to efficiently skip the gondola crowds and explore Venice’s canals from a unique perspective.
Venice Beginners Kayak Tour: Train & Visit the Medieval Arsenal
Beginning with a 2-hour kayak tour, participants can explore the serene waterways of Venice, learning about the city’s rich maritime history.
The “Venice Beginners Kayak Tour: Train & Visit the Medieval Arsenal” offers an intimate group experience for up to 6 travelers, priced from €60 per person.
Along with the kayak, paddle, and life jacket, the tour includes an expert instructor and a photo service to capture the highlights.
To ensure safety, participants must be in good physical condition and able to fit in the kayak cabin.
This family-friendly tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: Venice Beginners Kayak Tour: Train & Visit the Medieval Arsenal Review
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Venice: Sant’Erasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour
This 4-hour kayaking tour offers participants an opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Venice’s picturesque lagoon.
Priced from $154.74 per person, the tour is limited to just 4 participants and is available in Italian, German, and English.
Guests will paddle through the islands of Sant’Erasmo and Vignole, known as Venice’s vegetable gardens, and visit the historic Sant’Andrea Fort.
They’ll also stop at Lazzaretto Nuovo, the site of the invention of quarantine, and Certosa Island for stunning views of Venice’s skyline.
The tour includes a guide, equipment, and a water bus ticket, though food, drinks, and tips aren’t covered.
Read our full review: Venice: Sant’Erasmo, Vignole, and Lagoon Kayaking Tour Review
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Venice: Guided Kayak Tour
A guided kayak tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience the picturesque canals and waterways of Venice.
These tours typically last 2.5 hours and provide a small-group experience, allowing you to navigate the historic city from a different perspective.
Kayakers can explore the Grand Canal, hidden waterways, and the lagoon, while learning about the city’s rich history and architecture from a knowledgeable local guide.
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 1,887 reviews, the Venice Street Food Tour with Local Guide is a popular option that combines a kayaking adventure with the opportunity to sample delicious Venetian cuisine.
Read our full review: Venice: Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Venice: Hidden Canal Gems Kayak Tour With Certified Guide
Venturing beyond the popular gondola rides, the Venice: Hidden Canal Gems Kayak Tour With Certified Guide offers a more intimate and immersive experience of the city’s waterways.
With a duration of 2-3 hours, this tour takes participants through the lesser-known canals, where they can admire the stunning architecture and catch glimpses of local life.
Led by certified guides, the tour provides a unique perspective of Venice, allowing visitors to navigate the narrow canals and explore hidden gems away from the crowds.
Priced at $46.63 per person, this kayak tour is an excellent option for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Floating City.
Read our full review: Venice: Hidden Canal Gems Kayak Tour With Certified Guide Review
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Unique Night Tour With Sunset: Kayak in Venice With a Guide
The Unique Night Tour With Sunset: Kayak in Venice With a Guide offers adventurous travelers a captivating way to experience the city’s enchanting waterways.
This 2-hour tour allows guests to paddle through the iconic canals as the sun sets, providing a serene and dramatic backdrop.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour promises to showcase hidden gems and lesser-known routes, offering a unique perspective of Venice.
Priced at $83.73 per person, the small-group experience earns a stellar 4.9-star rating from 266 reviews, making it a must-do for those seeking an immersive and memorable adventure in the Floating City.
Read our full review: Unique Night Tour With Sunset: Kayak in Venice With a Guide Review
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Venice: Sunset Kayak Tour in the Canals
Under the dimming light of the Venetian sky, adventurous travelers embark on the Venice: Sunset Kayak Tour in the Canals.
Priced from Kč 2,504 per person, this 100-minute to 2-hour tour allows a maximum of 8 participants to explore Venice’s canals and historic sites from a unique perspective.
Paddlers will visit a historic rowing club, learn about the city’s water sports tradition, and contribute to the restoration and maintenance of the club.
With basic paddling skills required, participants can enjoy the eco-friendly transportation and take in the breathtaking sunset views.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those over 264 lbs, and prohibits alcohol, drugs, and electronic devices.
Read our full review: Venice: Sunset Kayak Tour in the Canals Review
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2hr Night Kayak Tour in Venice: Premium Tour With Sunset
Thrill-seeking travelers can embark on a premium night kayak tour in Venice, offering a captivating journey through the city’s iconic canals as the sun dips below the horizon.
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,150 reviews, this 6-hour tour provides a unique perspective of Venice’s enchanting waterways and historic landmarks.
Priced at $31.80 per person (discounted from $28.62), the experience allows participants to paddle past the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, and other iconic sights while enjoying the breathtaking sunset.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this premium night kayak tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking a more immersive exploration of Venice.
Read our full review: 2hr Night Kayak Tour in Venice: Premium Tour With Sunset Review
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Kayak Tour of Venice: Paddle in the Canals From a Unique POV
For those seeking a unique perspective of Venice’s iconic canals, a kayak tour offers an immersive experience.
Paddling through the narrow waterways, visitors can enjoy a more intimate view of the city’s historic architecture and hidden gems.
The Kayak Tour of Venice provides a 2-3 hour excursion, allowing guests to explore at a leisurely pace.
With a small group size, the tour ensures personalized attention and the ability to navigate the canals from a unique point of view.
Priced from $31.80 per person, this activity is a popular choice for those looking to experience Venice from the water and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s picturesque charm.
Read our full review: Kayak Tour of Venice: Paddle in the Canals From a Unique POV Review
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60 Quick Kayak Tour of Venice With Guide
A quick kayak tour of Venice with a guide provides an opportunity to explore the city’s iconic canals from a unique vantage point.
These tours typically last 45 minutes to 3 hours and allow visitors to skip the long lines for gondola rides. With a small group size, travelers can paddle through the tranquil waterways while a local guide provides commentary on the surrounding landmarks and architecture.
The average cost for a quick kayak tour in Venice is $37.09 per person, making it an affordable and immersive way to experience the city’s famous waterways.
These tours are ideal for those seeking a more active and intimate exploration of Venice’s picturesque canals.
Read our full review: 60 Quick Kayak Tour of Venice With Guide Review
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Cultural Kayak Tour: Discovering the City’s Canals
Enjoy the cultural heritage of Venice through a captivating kayak tour that unveils the city’s enchanting canals.
For $74.19 per person, you’ll embark on an 80-minute adventure, exploring the authentic waterways of Canareggio or Castello.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about Venice’s rich history and traditions as you paddle through the serene waters.
The tour includes kayaking training, a visit to a historic rowing club, and the opportunity to interact with locals.
With a maximum group size of 8, this experience is suitable for intermediate kayakers.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can pay later to secure your spot.
Read our full review: Cultural Kayak Tour: Discovering the City’s Canals Review
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The Sum Up
Venice’s canals offer a unique and memorable way to experience the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. With a range of kayak tours available, from beginner-friendly to more adventurous options, there’s something for all. Whether you’re paddling through the medieval Arsenal, exploring hidden gems, or enjoying a sunset tour, these kayak experiences provide a one-of-a-kind perspective on this iconic Italian destination.