Italy

To get a full refund, cancellation must be no less than 8 days before the local start time of the experience.

If traveler cancels their booking from 7 to 0 days before the local start time of the experience, no refund is provided.

Experience an authentic, sustainable, and unforgettable six-hour boating adventure, far from the bustling crowds, with Andrea Rossi, 4th generation fisherman featured on National Geographic. 

Step into a world where centuries-old fishing traditions and untouched beauty converge. Traverse the small canals of the island of Torcello and visit key sights. Then, dive into the lagoon's heart, exploring quiet sandbanks, observing the art of net fishing, collecting aquatic aromatic herbs so important to Venetian cuisine, and marveling at the diverse bird species that call this sanctuary home. 

Indulge in a delectable meal at the Burano Fisherman's Cooperative, where you'll feast on fresh catches while overlooking the serene lagoon. Conclude your adventure at the family shop in Burano. You'll meet Andrea's wife, delve into lace-making, and can even take home a piece of this timeless art. After the tour, travelers can wander through Burano or visit the nearby Museum of Lace on their own.

This tour starts and ends in Burano. Meet Andrea at the Burano vaporetto stand. From Venice to Burano, it's a 25 min ride by private water taxi or a 45 min ride on a public vaporetto (runs 5AM on). 

This tour stands out for its genuine connection with the Venetian lagoon's environment and culture. It offers an authentic insight into the traditional fishing techniques and ecological consciousness of the region. The experience is enriched by the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, understand the importance of sustainable fishing practices, and engage with the local community. Along the way, you'll find plenty of photo opportunities, with stops for foraging, a chance to observe the differences in various species of clams, and the possibility of seeing pink flamingos and other birds. 

Andrea is a genuine steward of Burano’s fishing culture. His primary mission in offering tours is to ensure the preservation of the traditional practices of the Venetian lagoon — he and the Burano Fishermen’s Cooperative work to preserve the lagoon and pass on traditional stewardship skills — and every booking supports this mission.

This is where the tour starts and ends. Burano is a charming and colorful island in the Venetian Lagoon, known for its brightly painted houses and long-standing tradition of lace-making. Located about 7 kilometers from Venice, a 25 minute water taxi (to be arranged via your Venice hotel) or a 40-minute vaporetto (water bus) ride can transport you to this picturesque locale from Venice. Historically, Burano was a fishing village, and this heritage is evident in its culture and cuisine, with seafood being a prominent feature in local dishes.

You can also stay overnight at Venissa or Casa Burano. It's amazing to wake up early on the island before the tourists get here and wander around.

From Venice by water taxi or public vaporetto. 
If staying overnight in Burano (Venissa or Casa Burano), it's a short walk. 

One of the most striking aspects of Burano is the vibrancy of its buildings. The houses, painted in a rainbow of colors, line the island's canals and streets, creating a cheerful and photogenic environment. This tradition of painting homes in bright hues dates back centuries and was originally thought to help fishermen find their way home in the dense fog that can envelop the lagoon.

Meet in Burano

Begin your adventure with a serene boat ride along Torcello's canals. This leg of the journey offers a glimpse into the island's rich history and serene landscapes. Visit the renowned basilica, explore the local museum, and walk through the streets where Attila once roamed. This part of the tour provides an intimate look at one of the lagoon's most historically significant islands.

Torcello stands as a testament to Venice's early history, far removed from the city's modern hustle. The basilica and museum serve as time capsules, preserving art and artifacts that narrate centuries-old stories. This stop offers a peaceful yet profound insight into the roots of Venetian culture, allowing you to connect with the past in an almost untouched setting.

Boat along small canals of the island of Torcello.

Boat Along Torcello's Canals

Venture deeper into the lagoon to discover its rich flora and fauna. Witness the skillful art of net fishing, a practice that sustains the local ecosystem. Explore habitats where various bird species, including the exotic pink flamingo and African ibis, thrive. This part of the tour is a celebration of the lagoon's biodiversity, offering a chance to observe and learn about its inhabitants.

The lagoon's serene sandbanks and diverse wildlife create an unparalleled natural experience. Here, you'll observe age-old fishing traditions, understanding the balance between human activity and nature. The opportunity to forage for aromatic plants used in Venetian cuisine adds a sensory dimension to the tour, connecting you to the land and its culinary heritage. You also might have the rare opportunity to observe a variety of bird species (depending on the time of year), including the majestic pink flamingo, African ibis, hawks, ducks, and herons, in their natural nesting grounds. This segment of the journey is capped with a photographic stop at an island in the middle of the lagoon. This is truly a serene and picturesque escape into nature.

Explore lagoon flora and fauna, witness net fishing, look for water birds.

Fauna & Flora of the Lagoon.

Savor a delicious lunch at a quaint café, part of the Burano Fisherman’s Cooperative. Overlooking the lagoon, this meal offers a taste of freshly caught seafood, prepared using traditional methods. The setting provides a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the dining experience.

Dining at the cooperative is about engaging with the community. Each dish tells a story of the lagoon's bounty and the fishermen's dedication. The cooperative’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices ensures that every bite you take supports the preservation of the lagoon’s ecological and cultural integrity. It's a great view out to the lagoon too!

Lunch at the Burano Fisherman's Cooperative.

A Fisherman's Lunch

Conclude your tour with a visit to La Bottega Dell Arte, where you'll witness the intricate art of Burano lace-making. Meet Andrea’s wife, Fiorenza, and engage in a conversation about this timeless craft. Explore the family's antique lace collection and the opportunity to purchase contemporary pieces. 

Easy walk from the boat along with Andrea.

This experience connects you directly to one of Burano's most cherished traditions. The hands-on demonstration and interaction with the artisans provide a deep understanding of the skill and history behind lace-making. This stop is a unique blend of cultural immersion and artistic appreciation, allowing you to take a piece of Burano's heritage home.

Burano Lace Experience at La Bottega Dell Arte with Fiorenza Rosetti. 

Burano Lace Traditions

Boat Tour from Burano near Venice: Forage with a fisherman and explore lagoon wildlife and heritage.

1.	[:05] Boat along small canals of the island of Torcello: 
o	[:30] Make a stop to visit Torcello. Take a walk in the small streets of Torcello. Visit basilica, museum, and the remains of the passage of the conqueror Attila. 
2.	Continue to discover the fauna and flora of the lagoon, entering the quiet sandbanks.
o	[:40] Demonstration of fishing with nets. 
o	[:45] Go to where various species of birds’ nest, including the pink flamingo, African ibis, hawks, ducks and herons. 
o	[:20] Snack and coffee or prosecco and burano sweets in the middle of the lagoon.
o	[:45] Learn about and collect the aromatic plants used in cooking since ancient times by Venetians and current Venetian chefs to create unique dishes and liqueurs. 
o	[:25] Photographic stop on island with former monastery in the lagoon. 
3.	[:20] Boat back to Torcello or Burano.
4.	[:80] Lunch: At a lovely little café which is part of the Burano Fisherman’s Cooperative overlooking the lagoon. 
5.	[:40] Visit family lace shop

The per person price of this experience assumes a minimum number of participants to cover base costs and logistics. The supplemental fee enables us to maintain quality and exclusivity for your smaller than minimum group

Fishing for Lagoon Treasures. 

This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 5 people to manage base costs and logistics. Children below 6 years can join free-of-charge. What's included: A toast in the middle of the lagoon with Venetian prosecco and Burano sweets. Plus coffee and water. Lunch at the Burano Fisherman's Cooperative. Visit to an authentic heritage lace shop. ** If you're interested in a refreshing dip in the lagoon, please bring a bathing suit and let Andrea know.

Hat. Sunscreen. A wind-cheater or jacket is always a good idea. 
Winters are very cold, so dress appropriately. 
**For your safety, this tour may be canceled in bad weather. Andrea will message you via Chat if slight time adjustments are needed due to tides.
***Please notify Andrea through chat once the booking is complete if the group includes young children. This will enable him to make necessary preparations, including arranging suitable safety jackets and other essential provisions.

This tour starts and ends in Burano. Meet Andrea at the Burano vaporetto stand. From Venice to Burano, it's a 25 min ride by private water taxi or a 45 min ride on a public vaporetto (runs 5AM on).  From Venice by water taxi or public vaporetto. 
If staying overnight in Burano (Venissa or Casa Burano), it's a short walk. 

Andrea Rossi, a fourth-generation fisherman from Burano, has a profound relationship with the Venetian lagoon. He speaks Italian and Spanish fluently, but only very little, basic English. Despite the language differences, his vibrant and expressive communication effortlessly bridges the gap, captivating travelers with unique insights into the lagoon. His dedication to sustainable fishing and preserving the heritage of the lagoon highlights his exceptional guiding abilities. To fully appreciate Andrea’s rich narratives, we recommend downloading a translation app like DeepL, given the reliable connectivity in the Venice lagoon. This tool will help you capture the subtleties of his stories and deepen your understanding of this unique environment.

Boat Tour from Burano near Venice: Forage with a fisherman and explore lagoon wildlife and heritage. — Book Instantly on Fernwayer