Venetian Rowing — The Ancient Art of Moving in Venice

Did you know the ancient rowing tradition known as Voga Veneta? Unique to the Venetian Lagoon, this centuries-old style of rowing is much more than just a way to move around — it’s a living expression of local culture, history, and identity.

What Is Voga Veneta?

Voga Veneta is the distinctive Venetian technique of rowing standing up and facing forward, rather than sitting and rowing backward like in most rowing styles. The rower stands on the stern of a flat-bottomed boat, using a single oar (or sometimes two) to both propel and steer.

This unique style developed to adapt to the shallow and calm waters of the lagoon, where tides, wind, and sandbanks demand precise control. Over the centuries, Venetians perfected this art — using it for everything from fishing and transport to festive regattas.

The Spirit of the Venetian Regattas

Every year, Venice celebrates its rowing heritage with colourful regattas, the most famous being the Regata Storica, held in September. Dressed in historical costumes, rowers and spectators recreate scenes from the glorious days of the Venetian Republic.

These races are not only sporting events but true symbols of community pride. From the young trainees of the local rowing schools to veteran champions, each participant embodies centuries of tradition passed from father to son, from lagoon to lagoon.

A Living Tradition in the Modern City

Even today, Voga Veneta remains part of daily life. Locals still row to reach their homes on the smaller islands, fishermen use traditional techniques to move silently through the marshes, and rowing clubs across Venice keep the legacy alive.

It’s also a powerful act of cultural resistance. In a city overrun by motorboats and mass tourism, Venetian rowing reminds everyone that Venice’s true soul lies in its quiet rhythm — in the splash of an oar and the breeze over the lagoon.

Why Voga Veneta Matters

Venetian rowing is more than heritage — it’s the heartbeat of Venice. It represents balance, connection, and respect for the water. Understanding it means understanding how Venice has survived for more than a thousand years — not by conquering nature, but by moving with it.

When you next visit Venice, take a moment to watch the locals row past. You’ll see not just skill, but poetry in motion — a tradition that continues to define one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.

Rowing the Venetian Way With Vidal Venice Tours

At Vidal Venice Tours, we deeply respect this ancient art. When you join us for a boat tour, you’ll see real rowers gliding through the canals and across the lagoon. We often pass near training gondolas and historic rowing clubs, giving our guests a glimpse into Venice’s authentic side — the one that most tourists never experience.