News from Italy
The Vogalonga: The art of rowing in Venice
Participating in, or simply watching, the Vogalonga means connecting with one of Venice’s most authentic traditions: voga alla veneta, a rowing technique that tells a story of centuries of history, hard work, and passion. It’s an ancient, graceful, and proud gesture, kept alive today by local rowing clubs and enthusiasts from around the world.
La splendida laguna di Venezia ha ospitato l’attesissima 49esima edizione della Vogalonga, una manifestazione che celebra la voga tradizionale e promuove la sostenibilità ambientale. Tra gli oltre 7500 partecipanti e le 1956 imbarcazioni provenienti da 33 nazioni diverse, anche il Circolo Canottieri Pro Monopoli ha lasciato il segno con due equipaggi di atleti Master. La Vogalonga, inserita nel programma ‘Le Città in Festa’ del Comune di Venezia e patrocinata da CONI, FIC e FICK, è nata con l’intento di combattere il moto ondoso causato dalle imbarcazioni a motore, ripristinare le tradizioni veneziane e sensibilizzare l’attenzione per l’ambiente e la natura.
On June 8, 2025, Venice’s lagoon was once again came alive with colours, passion, and rowers from all over the world for the Vogalonga, one of the city’s most iconic events. First held in 1974 as a protest against motorboat waves, today, it stands as a symbol of tradition, respect for Venice, and love for Venetian rowing culture.
The Vogalonga is more than just a regatta; it’s a true celebration of Venice’s spirit. Every year, this water parade brings together all kinds of rowing boats, from gondolas and caorline to sandoli, dragon boats, canoes, and vessels from around the world.
There’s no race to win here: the real goal is to take part, united by a shared love for rowing and for the magic of the Venetian lagoon. More than a competition, it’s a collective act of devotion to a tradition that lives in the water and the gentle rhythm of the oars, moving as one with the soul of the city.
The history of the Vogalonga
The first Vogalonga took place in 1974, born from the desire of a group of Venetians to raise awareness about the damaging wake caused by motorboats. What began as a quiet protest has evolved over the years into a cherished tradition, a heartfelt tribute to sustainability, rowing culture, and the city’s respect. Each edition writes a new chapter on the water, guided by the same spirit of care for the lagoon and a heritage passed down through generations.
This 2025 edition took place on Sunday, June 8th, beginning as always in the Basin of St Mark, where the sound of a cannon marks the official start. The route winds through iconic spots like Murano, Burano, and the Grand Canal — a journey through the true heart of the lagoon.
The day was filled with music, celebration, and a spirit of togetherness, as the Vogalonga is also a chance to rediscover the sense of community that has always defined Venice. Along the canals and waterfronts, the atmosphere was one of joyful tradition, sport, and poetry.