Vogalonga Regatta in Venice, first time visiting

I haven't been to this particular event but others really draw large crowds - on the day of. The area around San Marco is always the best for viewing and even when crowded you still have some "personal space." I'd do my hotel as soon as you can so that you have options. I wouldn't worry about eating - Venice has lots of places to eat and I've never seen the city run out of food. Honestly, the last thing I would want to do is get out of town for the day! How many times can you see a regatta like that at home!?!?!

It would be a shame to be there at such a special time and not enter into the festivities.

Rowing is very important to Venice.

There are a number of people who would gladly trade with you

Great question: I will actually be participating in the Vogalonga this year and am very excited. It looks like total chaos on the water, from the photos I've seen. I will have two traveling companions that day, who will be on their own while I am rowing. If anyone has recommendations for places to view from or things to avoid, I would welcome the advice. Mille grazie! Margaret

Great! I'll have someone to root for. Wonder if there are other female competitors? I assumed this race involved males only who are a native of Venice. Goes to show how much I know of the Regatta. This will be interesting. Good luck to you!

Thank you all for your guidance.

Been there twice. Fun event, everyone is excited and having fun.

The Bacino (seen from St. Marks Square) is full of competitors at the start. Go there early to see the different boats and countries represented. The Accademia Bridge has a good vanatge point latter in the race. Watch for collsions and wrecks as finishers travel against the direction of the main event.

The Grand Canal is shut down during and it is a long event.