Special Historic Regatta in Venice

The Special Historic Regatta is the grandest, most famous and extremely spectacular festivity in the city of Venice. It takes place on the waters of the Grand Canal and is a rich celebration of Italian culture.

The Special Historical Regatta comes to the city of Venice on the first Sunday of September every year. The history of this most traditional among all Venetian events goes back to 10th of January 1315 when it first took place under the rule of the doge Giovanni Soranzo.

Venice Barge Cruise- The Grand Event

The grand event was originally organized in the Serenissima times to celebrate the military victories or to honour the foreign dignitaries. Presently, it consists of two different parts: the historical parade and the rowing boat races. The splendid event begins with a majestic historical procession consisting of opulent, perfectly carved boats of the Venetian rowing clubs, and complete with hundreds of figures in wonderful brocade costumes.

Though the historical parade has just a picturesque importance now, symbolic of a bygone era of the political and economical greatness and prosperity of Venice on the seas, the regattas are relevant even today as they represent the climax of the agonistic season in the field of rowing. For rowers, winning on that day means to become a part of the history of this sport and, in a broader perspective, of Venice.

Venice Barge Cruise- The First Race

The first race that takes place after the historical parade is the Youngster Rowers one, wherein greatly technical boats challenge the ability of the talented young men. Next, Women’s race comes where there are light two-oared boats used by courtesans in the old days. The third race is Men’s one on heavy river-transportation boats which are almost out of use today.

Book one of our Italy River Cruises or Venice Barge Cruises out of Venice the last week of August and enjoy the regatta when you return!