This important rowing event was first introduced in 1974 by a group of Venetian rowers with a keen interest in the traditions of the Serenissima. The aim was to raise public awareness of the problems caused by swell created by engine-powered boats – the “onda lunga”.
This event has become increasingly popular over the years, especially with foreign teams, and up to 1,500 boats take part each year. On an agreed Sunday morning in May a huge number of boats of every type and description gather in St. Mark's Basin, facing the Doge’s Palace and await the green light to set off on the 30km course. The event runs between the islands of the lagoon returning to Venice through the Rio di Cannaregio, ending at Punta della Dogana.

The success of this event has been an incentive for the formation of new rowing clubs, as well as stimulating the then dying crafts of boat restoration and construction. Participation in the Vogalonga, a non-competitive event, is also an opportunity for everyone to rediscover the lagoon, its landscapes and its habitat.

1800 - 2000 - - rev. 0.1.5