A Peaceful Protest...with Gondolas
Today hosted the 34th annual Vogalonga "Long Oar" through the islands of Venice. This event grew out of a peaceful protest in 1974 for the historical tradition of oared boats in Venice rather than motorized ones due to the fact that the motorized boats became dangerous for the canal and for the preservation of the city itself. Since then this tradition has returned, inviting both amateurs and professional rowers in a friendly, non-competitive race from the lagoon in front of Piazza San Marco through the islands of Venice and finally back up the Grand Canal.
The race starts in the Basin near Piazza San Marco in front of Palazzo Ducale. All of the rowers start by singing praises to San Marco before the start of the race at 9am. From there it rounds the island of Venice and heads down the main canals of Burano, Murano, and some of the other islands that make up the outlying "'suburbs" of Venice.
When it initially started there was diminishing interest in rowing a boat in Venice as much of the world was turning to the new Motorized versions. Now, after 34 years, rowing in Venice is a huge past time and has spawned hundreds of rowing clubs in the area that have their own rowing teams made up of 2, 10,12, even 20 rowers! It also attracts teams from all over the globe. Today I saw teams from Hungary, Great Britain, and even a Polynesian team. But not to be outdone there were also individuals, all women, and a group of Monks. For those of you who like to simply Kayak or take the old camp canoe out for a spin every once in a while...you're welcome to participate as well.
The rules for the regata are surprisingly simple. First, you have to have a boat that is powered by oars (gondola, kayak, canoe, hollowed out log), then you have to have at least one rower, and then you have to pay the entry fee...this year it was 15 Euro.
If you happen to be in Venice during the spring, I highly recommend stopping by the canal for this peaceful, colorful regata. In my opinion, the best place to watch is definitely along Canal Cannaregio. This canal was listed as the best place on several websites that I checked out, and after experiencing it...I completely agree. There are numerous cafes and plenty of room on either side due to the large, wide walkways. I was able to find a place and enjoyed a cappuccino in the morning while the first boats drifted by and later a spritz and a sandwich as the larger groups entered the Grand Canal. The Grand Canal offers limited viewing and is usually overcrowded with spectators and it makes the whole day less enjoyable.
If you are interested in participating or just curious to learn more. Click here for the official website.