Venice Rafting

Experience the Thrill of Venice Rafting in the Grand Canal

If you're looking for an exciting and unique adventure during your holiday in Venice, look no further than Venice rafting. Imagine navigating the famous Grand Canal, which resembles a grade 3 river after rainfall, on a raft. It's an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

The Origins of Venice Rafting

Venice rafting is not a traditional activity in the city. However, in the summer of 2009, a group of artists known as The Swimming Cities of Serenissima sailed from Slovenia to Italy, eventually making their way down the Grand Canal in Venice. The artist Swoon designed the junk rafts as a collective art piece, creating floating structures that were more than just regular boats. This unique event brought attention to the possibility of rafting in Venice and inspired adventurous travelers to seek out similar experiences.

A Unique Perspective of Venice

Rafting in Venice offers a completely different perspective of the city. Instead of navigating the narrow streets and canals on foot or by gondola, you'll be floating along the waterways, surrounded by stunning architecture and historical landmarks. As you paddle through the Grand Canal, you'll pass by iconic sights such as the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square, giving you a front-row seat to the beauty of Venice.

Fun Facts about Venice Rafting

• The junk rafts used in The Swimming Cities of Serenissima project were built with salvaged materials, including scrap material from the construction boom in New York City.
• The rafts would come to life like an elaborate cuckoo clock during the regular shows held after sunset in Venice. Different parts of the rafts would animate with live music accompaniment, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for onlookers.
• The project received financial assistance from the artist Swoon and her gallery at the time, Deitch Projects.

When to Go Rafting in Venice

To fully enjoy the experience of Venice rafting, it's best to plan your visit during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water levels are suitable for rafting. However, it's important to note that rafting in Venice is not a commercialized activity, and opportunities to participate may be limited. It's recommended to research local tour operators or organizations that offer rafting experiences in Venice.

Conclusion

Venice rafting offers a thrilling and unique way to explore the enchanting city of Venice. Whether you're an adventure seeker or an art enthusiast, this experience will provide you with a fresh perspective of the city's iconic landmarks and architectural wonders. While not a mainstream activity, the origins of Venice rafting can be traced back to The Swimming Cities of Serenissima project, which brought attention to the possibility of rafting in Venice. So, if you're up for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, don't miss the opportunity to go rafting in the Grand Canal during your visit to Venice.