The Veneto region of Italy has picturesque and colorful islands, extraordinary architecture, beautiful works of art and a deep-rooted history. And with canals and waterways separating these highlights, a cruise is a great way to explore Venice and beyond.
On this cruise, spend seven days getting to know the Venetian lagoon—and its celebrity chef, Rick Stein—aboard a sleek riverboat, the SS La Venezia. With only 126 guests, it promises excellent and attentive service. Fully renovated in 2020, it features sumptuous furnishings that reflect the classic style of Venice.
You will have exclusive access to famous locations while they are closed to the public and the opportunity to see them when there are no crowds. Go after dark the St. Mark’s Basilica to witness an atmospheric lighting ceremony, and venture into the church on Torcello before it opens to the public to enjoy its serenity.
Floating City: Discover Venice’s majestic canals and waterways on The Mail on Sunday’s seven-day river cruise
An early morning visit also gives you VIP access to the Doge’s Palace. There’s also an impressive range of other all-inclusive excursions, whether you want to take part in historical walking tours or drive along the beaches of Chioggia to see the Lusenzo Lagoon.
At the end of your days exploring the islands, the SS La Venezia will warmly welcome you and whisk you around the Venetian lagoon in style. Special guest Rick Stein joins the tour for the last few days, leading a tour of the Rialto Food Market in Venice, giving a cooking demonstration on the SS La Venezia and answering questions from guests.
During the trip you will have enough time to visit all the unmissable places of Venice and to get to know Burano, Mazzorbo, Torcello, Chioggia and Murano, giving you a complete picture of life in the lagoon.
After dark, see a special lighting ceremony inside the St. Mark’s Basilica (photo).
OUR SPECIAL GUEST
They are accompanied by Rick Stein
Rick Stein CBE is a chef, restaurateur, television host and author of over 20 books, including his autobiography. He has directed more than 30 TV shows, including 12 cooking series, most recently Secret France. Rick also cooked for the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Tony Blair, Margaret Thatcher and former French President Jacques Chirac.
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Sailing in style: The SS La Venezia is the perfect ship to explore the Venetian lagoon. Specially designed to navigate these waters, the interior nods to its surroundings with Venetian-style furnishings and Murano glass.
Meet Rick Stein: Celebrity chef Rick Stein will join the cruise for three days. He accompanies a visit to the Rialto market and gives a cooking demonstration on board. There is also an opportunity to ask Rick questions after he gives a talk about his life and work.
Exclusive access outside office hours: Explore famous attractions when they are closed to the public, including the chance to witness a special lighting ceremony in St. Mark’s Basilica after dark, and venture into the Church of Torcello to admire an 11th-century mosaic for a moment in silence.
Many inclusions: Exceptional meals are included on board SS La Venezia, with chefs creating exquisite dishes using the freshest ingredients. A selection of tours and excursions are also included, with a variety of choices available on some islands.
Meet the craftsmen: Some excursions give you the opportunity to meet the local artisans. Watch glassblowers in Murano demonstrate an 800-year-old craft, and visit a workshop making masks for Venice Carnival.
Enjoy Italian food and wine: The food on board the SS La Venezia is prepared with refined ingredients. Outside the ship, there is the opportunity to take a tour of Dominio di Bagnoli, one of the oldest wine producers in Europe, with a sommelier.
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James is an author and travel journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a love for exploring new cultures and discovering unique destinations, James brings his readers on a journey with him through his articles.
