Gondola di Venezia - Boston Gondola Tours

If you're looking for a way to make a romantic statement and really impress your special someone, this is it!

The tour begins on the Esplanade near the Hatch Shell. The company has a cute booth built to look like a small version of the bell tower in Venice's St. Mark's Square. It's located right near where the gondola docks. There are even those painted poles in the water next to the dock just like you see in Venice. The authentic gondolas were actually built in Venice and shipped to Boston. The tour runs along the Esplande and into the Charles River.

There are a number of tour options starting at around $100 and going up from there to over $200 for the most luxurious tour available.

The first time we went was in 2002. My husband splurged and got the expensive tour and it was beautiful. There were even flowers for me in the gondola when we arrived. The gondolier was so friendly, always making sure that we were comfortable. You are encouraged to bring your own wine or champagne as they don't supply any, but they do supply the ice bucket, glasses, etc. They also had cheese and crackers, strawberries, and Lindt truffles in a picnic basket for us. The gondola itself was very comfortable and there was even a blanket if it got chilly. My husband got the tour that included the accordion player (who also sings) and he was great. It was amazing to be in Boston in an authentic gondola listening to the beautiful music.

The Esplanade is so unique because there is a small inlet between two pieces of land and there are actually venetian-style bridges that you go under. Something that was really interesting is that there are marble steps that go into the water dotted along the river's edge just like in Venice. Our gondolier told us that back in the 30's (if I remember correctly) someone had a vision to create venetian steps and bridges along the Charles River but once the depression hit, the plans were scrapped and never fully realized. The steps add charm to the landscape and together with the bridges it is absolutely lovely!

This tour company will help you plan for marriage proposals and other special occasions. They have had hundreds of proposals during their tours. Our tour was beautiful...everything was perfect and it was incredibly romantic.

P.S. Gratuities are appreciated.