We cross one of the Laguna mouths to the Lido, the longest of the barrier islands. We set course to island hop our way, first passing the island of Poveglia, inhabited since 421 AD, which is supposedly one of the “most haunted places in the world” (we shan’t be stopping), and then in turn, the islands of San Spirito, San Clemente, and Santa Maria della Grazia before arriving at San Giorgio Maggiore. By special arrangement (we became honorary members), we will stay for the next three nights in the brand new waterfront guest rooms at Compagnia della Vela Venezia, a private yacht club located on the basin of the Grand Canal. Not only is this an outstanding location from which to explore Venice by kayak, it is one of the best locations for a visit to the city (the exclusive 5 star Hotel Cipriani is essentially next door). After checking in, we’ll go to the top of the island’s campanile (bell tower) for what is arguably the very best view of Venice. With Saint Mark’s Square directly opposite and the mouth of the Grand Canal in front of us, this is an ideal spot for an overview of our previous and next day’s paddling. After time for a shower and perhaps a glass of wine, we’ll take the vaporetto ferry (departures every 10 minutes) across to Piazza San Marco for dinner in Venice and a stroll along the waterfront Riva delgi Schiavioni.
Overnight: Compagnia della Vela Venezia
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner