Cruise Your Way Through Venice ~ The Queen of Canals

Think of canals and you instinctively think of Venice, so why not enjoy the best this amazing city has to offer by cruising among the maze of islands within this historic area?

Why Here?
Whilst many people have visited Venice, most of them have probably ignored the equally enticing islands and waterways that surround it. The city of Venice is just one of the settlements in the Northern Lagoon area of Northern Italy and a visit to this unique locality will unearth unspoilt treasures which retain traditions and character built up over the centuries.

Why Cruise?
Simply because being based on a luxurious cruiser, supplied by Le Boat, gives you the best of all worlds. Anyone who has visited Venice knows that the ideal way to travel around is by boat. As you will be based in your own cruiser, you will have access to all the charms and facilities this delightful area has to offer, however, if you feel like exploring further afield, you can step off your boat and hire a bike, or a car that will easily take you to towns, such as Treviso, a little further from the coast.

Murano, Torcello, Casale, Torcello
These historic settlements are dotted around the Northern Lagoon area. From ancient times this locality was an important trading centre and traditional crafts such as glass blowing and lace making are still carried on and their products make beautiful and authentic mementos of you holiday. Links with history are evident in the many archaeological artrfacts on display throughout the area and you don't have to spend all your time sightseeing as you can hook up near a cafe or restaurant and enjoy a classic espresso, or sample some delicious Italian cooking.

Venice
The city itself, of course, is a must see. Queen of the Adriatic to City of Bridges and the Floating City, are just some of the terms used to describe this jewel of the Northern Lagoon. Since the end of the Dark Ages the city has seduced its visitors with its art treasures, unique architecture and spellbinding bridges. Doge's Palace, the Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge need no introduction and the city is also renowned for its cuisine and canalside cafes. Unsurprisingly, Venice, in its entirety, is a World Heritage Site. Visit in the spring or autumn if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, but if you really want to see the city at its best, pencil in a trip in late winter and join in with the colour and costumes of its famous carnival.

However, what sets Venice apart from almost all other cities, is its major mode of transport. Where else do you arrive at the major railway station and take a water bus to your hotel? Or what could be more romantic than a gondola trip under the Rialto Bridge?

Visiting Venice is always a treat, but arriving the way the Venetians do, by boat, adds enormously to the experience. The canals and waterways of this unique area of Northern Italy have resulted in a nautical culture within which you will feel thoroughly at home.

Author's Bio: James Cain is an accomplished author who has published several books on travel and regularly writes on the subject on websites and for the print media. He is a particular expert on the type of nautical travel offered by Le Boat.