Why a Boutique Cruise is
the Best Way to See Venice

Large cruise ships have been banned from docking in the central parts of Venice since 2021. Now, Venice is implementing targeted entry restrictions aimed at managing the city's significant influx of visitors, especially during peak periods, starting summer 2024.

The government's long-term goal is to create a new artificial harbor and cruise port on the Adriatic, although details about the timing and location are still unspecified. The new regulations directly affect how cruise passengers will access Venice, potentially altering the experience of visiting the city via large cruise. But do the new entry regulations change how smaller vessels navigate the lagoon?

Venice Cruise Ship Restrictions

Large Cruise Ships Restricted Since 2021

The Italian government began to impose restrictions on cruise ships entering central Venice beginning in 2021. This move was motivated by a combination of environmental, cultural, and safety concerns, underpinned by the delicate balance Venice maintains between preserving its heritage and accommodating millions of visitors each year. 

Small, Boutique River Cruises Remain Exempt

Luckily, small boutique ships, like Uniworld's S.S. La Venezia, are exempt from these restrictions. The continued exemption with the addition of new regulations acknowledges the importance of tourism to the city's economy and emphasizes the need for sustainable practices that ensure Venice's preservation for future generations. The policy also reflects a broader global trend towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism practices, recognizing the need to protect vulnerable sites from the potentially destructive impacts of global tourism.

Why a Uniworld Cruise is the Best Way to See Venice

Between hotel prices and getting to and around the Lagoon, the costs of creating a dream Venice vacation can start adding up. Uniworld's boutique all-inclusive cruises actually save you money and reduce stress by having us plan your incredible trip within a reasonable budget.

Booking a Cruise With GET vs. Planning & Booking on Your Own

If you want to see the best of Venice and Northern Italy at the best value - the cost of a Uniworld all-inclusive cruise covers your stay in a boutique floating hotel, three world-class meals a day, unlimited local wines, and so much more.

Luxury in Venice at the BEST Value

The ultimate Venetian vacation is perfected by one unique quality: your stay onboard a floating boutique hotel. Not only stay in one of the most enviable locations in Venice, your hotel also transports you to hidden gem towns nearby. Explore the waterfront shops, colorful facades and peaceful canals unique to Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. Farther south, discover Chioggia—a charming southern port loved by fishermen. And savor the spectacular wine and cuisines of this region every step of the way.

BOOKING A CRUISE WITH GET
Expert Travel Team

Worry-free vacations with everything is arranged for you, not by you.

PLANNING & BOOKING ON YOUR OWN
Researching & Planning

Find the best dates and deals by yourself across hundreds of websites.

BOOKING A CRUISE WITH GET
A variety of complementary, cultivated excursions

See the Lagoon's islands in style, enjoy VIP access and private experiences.

PLANNING & BOOKING ON YOUR OWN
Book every attraction separately

If you want to visit more than one island in the lagoon, you'll have to take a ferry, typically ~€15 for a round trip fare. A private, evening tour of St. Mark's Basilica normally costs independent travelers around €125. Entry to the Doge's Palace, without a guide, is around €40. A visit to a private Murano glass workshop is normally around €75, and without the round-trip ferry cost included.

BOOKING A CRUISE WITH GET
Stay in a Luxury Floating Hotel

See the best of Venice and Northern Italy, with an ever-changing view.

PLANNING & BOOKING ON YOUR OWN
Stay in One Place

A luxury hotel with views of the Lagoon can cost $400 or more per night.

BOOKING A CRUISE WITH GET
All Meals Included

When dining onboard, you’ll be treated to world-class, five-star, cuisine made from fresh ingredients, locally sourced from and inspired by the destinations you visit. 

Plus, you'll enjoy UNLIMITED premium spirits and regional wine.

PLANNING & BOOKING ON YOUR OWN
Eat Out Every Meal
€75-€150 per person/day

Breakfast ~€5-€15/pp
Lunch ~€10-€20/pp
(Lunch with wine ~€30-€45/pp)
Dinner ~€20-€50/pp
(Dinner with wine ~€35-€75/pp)

BOOKING A CRUISE WITH GET
Transportation Included

Airport transfers to and from the airport straight to your luxury ship.

PLANNING & BOOKING ON YOUR OWN
Pre-Book, Schedule, and Pay for Transportation

Airport transfers = $150. Water taxis = $15 per person minimum.