Why a Boutique Cruise is
the Best Way to See Venice

Venice Cruise Ship Rules: What Cruise Travelers Need to Know

Venice remains one of the most enchanting cruise destinations in the world, but if you’re planning to arrive by ship, it’s important to understand the city’s current docking and entry rules.

Large Cruise Ships Restricted Since 2021

Since August 2021, large vessels over 25,000 gross tons, longer than 180 meters, or taller than 35 meters, have been banned from sailing through the Giudecca Canal into the heart of Venice. These restrictions protect the city’s fragile lagoon environment and iconic historic sites.

Instead, large cruise ships now dock in Marghera, Ravenna, Trieste, or Chioggia, with passengers transferred to Venice by bus or smaller boats.

New Visitor Entry Rules

In addition to cruise regulations, Venice introduced a visitor entry fee for non-overnight guests on high-traffic days starting in 2024. The fee applies on 54 peak days per year. 

Smaller Ships Still Dock in the City

For travelers who want to sail directly into and stay in Venice, small ships are the answer. Boutique river cruise ships, such as Uniworld's S.S. La Venezia, remain exempt from the size restrictions and can still dock within the lagoon at terminals like San Basilio. This allows for a more intimate arrival experience right in the city. 

Why a Uniworld Cruise is the Best Way to See Venice

Between hotel prices, entry fees, and getting to and around the Lagoon, the costs of creating a dream Venice vacation can start to add 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.

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. 

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, without having to worry about entry restrictions—the cost of a Uniworld all-inclusive cruise covers your stay in a boutique floating hotel, any entry fees, three world-class meals a day, unlimited local wines, and so much more.

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.