Burano Kayak Eco-Tour Through the Venetian Lagoon
Paddle through the lagoon’s untouched beauty on a sustainable kayak tour to Burano. Pass hidden islands and San Francesco del Deserto along the way.
Burano Kayak Eco-Tour highlight
- Explore Venice’s wild side by eco-kayak
- Arrive in Burano from the water, crowd-free
- Paddle through salt marshes and spot wildlife
- Active, immersive, and beginner-friendly
- Zero-impact way to discover the lagoon
Meeting Point
The meeting point is:
Fondamente Nove water bus stop D, in front of Caffè Gelato.
Description
Discover the hidden gems of the Venetian Lagoon on a guided kayaking adventure. Paddle through serene waterways, explore colorful islands, and immerse yourself in Venice’s wild beauty.
Embark on a unique eco-friendly kayak journey through the stunning Venetian Lagoon, visiting the peaceful islands of Sant’Erasmo, Burano, and beyond. Glide past scenic saltmarshes, vibrant villages, and quiet canals, uncovering a side of Venice few visitors ever see.
Starting from Fondamente Nove in Venice, we’ll take a vaporetto to the green island of Sant’Erasmo, where our kayaking experience begins. After a safety briefing and getting familiar with the gear, we’ll paddle through calm waters surrounded by wildlife and migratory birds. Along the way, we’ll stop on the charming island of Burano, famous for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition, where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved break and taste local treats like the traditional bussolai cookies.
Our route continues toward San Francesco del Deserto, a secluded island home to a centuries-old Franciscan monastery. This peaceful haven offers a moment of quiet reflection before we make our return journey.
The tour ends with a relaxing vaporetto ride back to Venice, carrying with us unforgettable memories and a new perspective on the lagoon.
This customizable tour is designed for all experience levels, with around 2 hours of paddling time, allowing everyone to enjoy the Venetian Lagoon at their own rhythm.
Itinerary
Meeting in Venice – Fondamente Nove
We’ll meet at Fondamente Nove, a convenient and central location in Venice. From there, we’ll take the vaporetto together to reach Sant’Erasmo, where our kayaking adventure begins.
Vaporetto Journey – Vignole and Lazzaretto Novo
On the way, we’ll pass by two fascinating islands:
- Le Vignole, once a rural retreat for Venetian nobles, now a peaceful green haven known for its vineyards and small farms.
- Lazzaretto Novo, established in 1468, was part of Venice’s pioneering plague prevention system. Carefully restored, it stands as a testament to the city’s historical resilience.
Arrival at Sant’Erasmo and Kayak Launch
Once on the island, we’ll prepare for the kayak tour with a briefing and equipment orientation. Sant’Erasmo, known as Venice’s “vegetable garden,” is the perfect starting point to explore the natural beauty of the lagoon.
Exploring the Saltmarshes and San Francesco del Deserto
We’ll paddle through serene saltmarshes, rich with lagoon wildlife and migratory birds. Depending on tide and timing, we’ll pass near or pause by San Francesco del Deserto, a peaceful island home to a historic Franciscan monastery.
Burano: The Island of Colors, Lace, and Charm
Next, we’ll kayak through the picturesque canals of Burano, admiring its vibrant houses and the iconic leaning bell tower. Once ashore, we’ll pause for a break to stroll, relax, or enjoy some bussolai cookies and a refreshing drink.
Return to the Kayak Base and Vaporetto Ride Back to Venice (or Murano)
After exploring Burano, we’ll paddle back to our starting point. From there, we’ll take the vaporetto back to Venice or Murano, enjoying one last look at the lagoon.
Customizable and Comfortable for All Levels
The total paddling time is approximately 2 hours. This tour is fully adaptable to the group’s abilities, ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
What is included
Top-rated local guide
Use of kayak, life vest and ergonomic paddle
Meeting point in Venice at Fondamente Nove
What’s not included
Water bus ticket to the Sant’Erasmo Island. Tickets can be purchased onboard
Gratuities at your discretion
Please Note
The tour can be in a shared small-group tour and limited to 10 participants max.
Private tour are available and fully customizable and reserved exclusively for your group.
Please be sure to arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes before the starting time of the tour. This is the key to ensure the high-quality of your experience.
We also recommend you wear sport and confortable clothes, a cap, sun screen and a bottle of water.
Accessibility
The experience is meant to be inclusive and accessible: if you are a traveller with motor, sensorial or cognitive disabilities, please let us know in advance and we will make our best to meet your needs.
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
FAQs
1. In which languages is the tour available?
This tour is available in English, German, Italian, and Spanish.
2. How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, including kayaking and short breaks.
Paddling time is around 2 hours, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions.
3. Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Fondamente Nove in Venice, where we will take the Vaporetto to Sant’Erasmo.
If you are already on Sant’Erasmo or Murano, we can arrange an alternative meeting point.
If you are staying in Cavallino, Treporti, or Punta Sabbioni, you can reach the island directly from Treporti, without needing to come to Venice.
4. Do I need previous kayaking experience?
No prior kayaking experience is required, but it’s good if you have paddled before.
The tour is beginner-friendly, and the guide will provide instructions and a safety briefing before we start.
5. Do I need to be in good physical shape?
You should be in good general health and comfortable in the water.
Weight limit: 120 kg for men, 100 kg for women.
You must fit into a kayak cockpit size of 80 cm (length) x 40 cm (width).
People with serious disabilities and pregnant women beyond the third month cannot participate for safety reasons.
6. What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable sports clothing (preferably synthetic or wool, not cotton) and dress appropriately for the weather.
Bring sport shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a bottle of water.
A waterproof phone case is essential. If you don’t have one, let us know in advance, and the guide can provide one.
Avoid bulky backpacks, valuables, or items that could be damaged by saltwater.
7. What happens if it rains?
The tour runs in light rain. If the conditions are unsafe due to heavy rain, wind, or storms, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled.
8. What happens if the tides are too high or too low?
If very high or very low tides make the planned route impractical, we will take an alternative but equally fascinating itinerary, such as Sant’Andrea Fortress and Isola delle Vignole.
9. Will we have free time on Burano?
Yes, you will have a short break to explore Burano and, if you wish, try local specialties like bussolai cookies.
10. Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.
11. Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is only for teenagers (12 years and older) and adults.
12. Are water bus tickets included in the tour price?
No, ACTV Vaporetto tickets are not included.
We recommend purchasing ACTV daily passes for convenience.
13. Can we use a tandem kayak (two people in one kayak)?
No, each participant will have their own kayak, as it is safer and ensures better control during the experience.
14. What happens if I arrive late?
Since the water bus to Sant’Erasmo runs only once per hour, arriving late means missing the boat.
For shared group tours, this means missing the tour entirely.
For private tours, the itinerary will be adjusted, and the experience may be shortened.
15. Can I stay on Sant’Erasmo after the tour?
Yes! You are welcome to stay longer on the island and enjoy lunch, aperitivo, or dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the lagoon.
16. Can I bring my own kayak?
No, this tour includes high-quality kayaks and equipment, ensuring safety and comfort.
17. What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will receive a full refund.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour or no-shows will be fully charged.
18. How can I contact you for more information?
Email: valerio@detourist.it
WhatsApp: +39 340 671 1267
19. Can I book other tours or experiences?
Absolutely! Many guests choose to combine this kayak tour with other Venice experiences, such as walking tours, food tastings, or visits to Murano and Burano.
Feel free to contact me for personalized suggestions, special offers, or to create a custom itinerary just for you.
Booking Experience
No availability? Fully booked? Custom request? Contact me via WhatsApp or email — I might still make it happen!
