Overview
- Duration:7 days 7 nights
- Tour Type:Boat Tour, Events
- Language:English, Italiano
The VRC - TOTAL (€640) is a week-long, immersive experience for children and teens aged 6–17, blending sports, culture, and outdoor adventure in the Venetian lagoon. Participants learn Voga alla Veneta, the traditional Venetian rowing style, navigating wooden rowboats under the guidance of experienced local instructors. This hands-on approach develops teamwork, coordination, and a deep appreciation for Venice’s maritime traditions.
Campers also experience a strong connection with nature, exploring lagoon islands such as Sant’Erasmo, known as the “vegetable garden of the Doges.” They learn about local flora, fauna, and the delicate ecosystems of the barene (mudflats and salt marshes) through workshops, birdwatching, and hands-on activities. This encourages environmental awareness and respect for the lagoon’s unique landscapes.
The program balances active sports, cultural learning, and recreational fun. Kayaking, dragon boating, snorkeling, bicycle trips, and swimming offer physical engagement, while cultural workshops, museum visits (Murano glass, Burano lace), and gondolier craft sessions connect participants to Venetian traditions. Playful activities include survival techniques, orienteering, marine knots, treasure hunts, group dances, hip hop, and karaoke.
Accommodation is provided on a Venetian island, in tents on lawns or in comfortable rooms, with locally sourced, sustainable meals (gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available). The week concludes with a grand rowing experience along the Grand Canal, reaching the Rialto Bridge, followed by a guided walk through the historic city center. All activities are adapted to participants’ interests and weather conditions, with alternative indoor facilities available in Cannaregio if needed.
Highlights
- Authentic Venetian Rowing (Voga alla Veneta) – Every participant rows in traditional wooden boats, guided by experienced local instructors, learning centuries-old techniques.
- Lagoon and Nature Exploration – Visit islands such as Sant’Erasmo, learn about barene ecosystems, flora, fauna, and environmental conservation.
- Cultural & Educational Activities – Hands-on workshops with gondolier arts, ancient crafts, museum visits, and lagoon heritage.
- Adventure & Fun – Kayaking, dragon boating, snorkeling, treasure hunts, survival skills, orienteering, marine knots, bonfires, and group games.
- Grand Canal Finale – Rowing along Venice’s Grand Canal to Rialto Bridge, followed by a guided historic city walk.
Includes/Excludes
- 6 nights’ accommodation on a Venetian island (tents on lawns or comfortable rooms)
- All meals and snacks (morning & afternoon; gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options)
- Daily guided rowing, kayaking, dragon boating, and other sports activities
- Educational workshops, cultural visits, and recreational games
- Official Venetian Rowing Camp kit: cap, T-shirt, backpack
- Experienced instructors and guides (ratios: 2–5 yrs → 1:5, 6–11 yrs → 1:7, 12–17 yrs → 1:10)
- Safe meeting points and transfers to the islands; optional hotel pick-up
- Access to headquarters facilities (tables, benches, kitchenette, restroom, changing space)
- Weather-adapted alternative indoor sessions
- Personal travel to/from Venice meeting points
- Personal items not listed under “What to bring”
- Optional activities outside the daily program
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Frequently asked questions
What to bring
Backpack, sports bottle, swimsuit, sunscreen, beach towel, beach slippers, rock shoes, torch, mosquito spray, K-Way/rain jacket, sleeping bag, blanket (if staying overnight), shower towel, shampoo and shower gel, toothbrush and toothpaste, complete change of sportswear (short and long pants, short- and long-sleeved shirts, socks, underpants, gym shoes). Label all items with the participant’s name.
Not allowed
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, gaming consoles)
- Alcohol or drugs
- Dangerous items (knives, sharp tools, etc.)
- Alcohol or drugs
- Dangerous items (knives, sharp tools, etc.)
Know before you go
Camp runs Monday–Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Optional overnight stays Wednesday–Thursday
Morning meeting 8:00–8:30 am at one of four collection points: Piazzale Roma, Lido, Fondamente Nove, or Ponte della Costituzione (Calatrava Bridge)
No swimming ability required; rowing optional
Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for water and outdoor activities recommended
Activities are weather-dependent and may be adapted according to participant interests
Camp emphasizes tradition, nature, teamwork, and lagoon exploration
Camps will take place with at least 8 participants
Optional overnight stays Wednesday–Thursday
Morning meeting 8:00–8:30 am at one of four collection points: Piazzale Roma, Lido, Fondamente Nove, or Ponte della Costituzione (Calatrava Bridge)
No swimming ability required; rowing optional
Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for water and outdoor activities recommended
Activities are weather-dependent and may be adapted according to participant interests
Camp emphasizes tradition, nature, teamwork, and lagoon exploration
Camps will take place with at least 8 participants
