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About
Vogalonga 2025, probably the most important Venetian rowing event, will take place on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in the beautiful city of Venice.
Vogalonga is a boat race through the historical center of Venice and around the islands of the Venetian lagoon, up to the island of Burano, over a total distance of 30 kilometers.
Both a non-competitive boat race and a manifest against motorized boats which pollute the lagoon, Vogalonga attracts every year in Venice thousands of participants.
This marathon of boats does not have winners, or if you want, winners are all those who participate.
And anyone can participate in the race, young and old, locals and people from all over the world, men and women alike.
WHAT IS THE DATE FOR VOGALONGA 2025?
Even though Vogalonga usually takes place in the spring, Vogalonga 2025 will take place in early summer.
Vogalonga 2025 will be held on a Sunday, and that day will be June 8, 2025.
WHAT IS THE LOCATION OF VOGALONGA 2025?
Vogalonga 2025 will take place, of course, in Venice.
The race will begin and end in the iconic St. Mark’s Basin (Bacino San Marco). After the ceremonial cannon blast will signal the start, participants will embark on a picturesque journey through the Venetian Lagoon.
The route will take rowers past some of Venice’s most breathtaking sights, including the Grand Canal, the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, and finally the Cannaregio Canal (Canale di Cannaregio).
The course’s design ensures that participants experience both the bustling heart of Venice and the tranquil beauty of its surrounding lagoon.
SHORT HISTORY OF VOGALONGA
Vogalonga traces its roots back to 1974, a time when Venice faced significant challenges due to the motorization of its canals.
The increasing prevalence of motorboats (motoscafi) was causing not only environmental damage but also a disruption to the serene, historical atmosphere of the city.
The history of Vogalonga began on November 11, 1974, when a group of friends, both amateurs and professionals, organized a small race in the waters of the Venetian lagoon.
On this occasion, an idea was born – to initiate a regatta dedicated to all the fans of the Venetian rowing, to revive this ancient tradition and to support a campaign against the degradation of the Venice lagoon.
Among the participants, perhaps the most fervent promoter of the event was Lauro Bergamo, the director of Il Gazzettino newspaper.
On January 26, 1975, an official announcement was made for the establishment of Vogalonga, which was presented to the citizens and the press, promoted by a special committee.
The first Vogalonga took place on May 8, 1975, the day of the Feast of the Ascension (Festa della Sensa), when the race began in front of the Doge’s Palace, on a signal given by a cannon shot.
Over the years, the Vogalonga has grown exponentially in popularity, attracting thousands of rowers and spectators from around the globe.
From traditional Venetian boats like gondolas and sandoli to kayaks, canoes, and dragon boats, a wide variety of vessels participate.
50 years ago, at the first edition of the race, there were about 500 boats and more than 1500 rowers. At the 2018 edition of Vogalonga, there were about 2,100 boats and over 8,350 rowers.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR VOGALONGA 2025
The day of Vogalonga 2025 will begin early, with participants gathering in St. Mark’s Basin. Boats of all shapes and sizes will converge, creating a mesmerizing mosaic of colors and designs.
The race will start around 9.00 am in the St. Mark’s Basin.
The boats will sail through the Giudecca Canal (Canale della Giudecca) and will pass on their way along the islands of Sant’Elena, Vignole, Sant’Erasmo and San Francesco del Deserto.
At the middle of the route, the participants will reach the small island of Burano, and they will return along Mazzorbo, Madonna del Monte and San Giacomo in Paludo.
On the island of Murano, the race will continue on the Grand Canal of Murano, and then the boats will head to Venice.
After entering the city via the Cannaregio Canal, the participants will race across the Grand Canal to the finish line of Vogalonga 2025, located in front of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.
All participants who will reach the finish line, will receive a commemorative medal and a certificate of participation.
As usual, during Vogalonga 2025, the waterbus service in Venice will be stopped between 9.00 am and 3.00 pm.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN VOGALONGA 2025
The 49th edition of Vogalonga will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, along a 30 kilometers course through the Venice lagoon.
The race will be open to any type of rowing boats, regardless of weight, size or number of rowers.
The registration for Vogalonga 2025 will be possible on the website www.vogalonga.com. The registration will be open with about a month before the race, and will close a few days before the event.
The registration fee per person participating in the race will be around 25.88€ (the fee for the 2024 edition). The registration fees will be paid online via credit card on the Vogalonga website.
Before the race, the participants will park their boats in special areas set up on Isola Nuova del Tronchetto. Also, they could reserve a parking space for cars in the adjacent car parks.
For those planning to take part in the Vogalonga, preparation is key. Here are some tips:
- Train in advance: While the event is non-competitive, the 30-kilometer route can be physically demanding. Regular rowing practice and endurance training are essential.
- Choose the right boat: Ensure your boat is suitable for the route and conditions. Traditional Venetian boats are popular choices, but any non-motorized watercraft is welcome.
- Arrive early: The early morning gathering at St. Mark’s Basin is a sight to behold. Arriving early allows you to soak in the atmosphere and prepare for the day ahead.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks: Rowing for hours can be exhausting, so it’s important to stay fueled and hydrated.
- Embrace the spirit: Remember, the Vogalonga is about camaraderie and enjoyment. Take time to appreciate the scenery and connect with fellow rowers.
ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE OF VOGALONGA
Vogalonga is not just a celebration of rowing. It’s also a statement about the importance of sustainable practices.
By promoting non-motorized watercraft, the event underscores the need to protect Venice’s delicate aquatic ecosystem.
Participants and organizers alike advocate for reducing the impact of motorized traffic in the lagoon, emphasizing the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage.
In recent years, the event has also raised awareness about climate change and its effects on Venice. Rising sea levels and increased flooding pose serious threats to the city’s survival.
The Vogalonga serves as a reminder of the vital connection between Venice and its watery surroundings, inspiring action to safeguard this unique environment for future generations.
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