Vogalonga 2025 - Watch Venice’s Canals Transformed

Every year, around May and June, hundreds of boats take to the famous canals for an unusual boat race. 

Well, you can’t really call it a race, because it’s more good-natured protest than a competition. The Vogalonga, which translates to ‘long rowing’, began in 1974 as a response to the growing use of powerboats on the city’s delicate waterways. The boats’ engines were damaging the canals, and locals were having none of it. So, they took to the water in canoes, rafts, lilos (possibly), and whatever other kinds of engine-free watercraft they could find. 
 
These days, anyone with a floating vessel can enter (within reason), and participants have traveled from as far as China to take part. The ‘race’ begins in the St. Mark’s Basin in front of the Ducal Palace, and from there, contestants float along a designated route until they can float no more. The route concludes at the charming islands of Murano and Burano, famous for their vibrant houses and artisanal crafts. 
 
Judging from the pictures, it looks like a semi-serious event. However, there have been years when so many make-shift boats disintegrated that they had to call it off. 
 
Next year’s Vogalonga takes place on the 8th of June 2025. To get to the starting point from Generator Venice, take the B Ferry to San Marco and walk.