Northern Italy River Exploration
Revel in the architectural marvels of Venice, where history flows as gracefully as the canals
Let the vibrant market life of Chioggia invigorate your senses, a kaleidoscope of colors and local charm
Embrace the tranquility of Po Delta’s rich ecosystem, a haven for wildlife and nature lovers
Step back in time in Adria, where ancient Roman history permeates through the streets
Immerse in the intellectual legacy of Ferrara, a city that shaped modern urban planning
Conclude in Mantua, a Renaissance masterpiece cradled by lakes, offering a feast for both eyes and palate
Itinerary
Welcome aboard from 5.00 p.m., with an introductory briefing at 6.30 p.m. by the tour leader, skipper, and crew, followed by an aperitivo. Post-dinner, Venice awaits to be explored in its nocturnal glory.
Discover Venice’s hidden gems with your tour leader and then spend the day at leisure, immersing yourself in the city’s serene and enduring allure.
Depart Venice with a cruise by St Mark’s square, visit Murano for a glassblowing demonstration, then cycle through Lido and Pellestrina, ending the day in front of Chioggia.
25 km/15.5 mi
Morning in Chioggia, possible climb up the world’s oldest clock tower, and a beach visit. Cycle into the Po Delta, observing its rich avian life, and conclude in Adria.
40 km/24.9 mi
Cruise, then bike to Ferrara, known for its Este heritage and academic excellence. A bus takes you back to Zelo, your evening’s mooring spot.
35 km/21.7 mi
Visit Bergantino’s Museum of Amusement, a cheese factory for a Grana Padano tasting, then cycle to Ostiglia and board the barge at Governolo Lock, cruising to Mantua.
50 km/31 mi
Spend the day discovering Mantua’s historic center, from Piazza Sordello to Piazza delle Erbe, and learn about its past as a powerful city-state.
35 km/21.7 mi
Pricing
Included in price
7 overnights
Breakfast
Self-made packed lunch
6 dinners
Welcome drink
Coffee and tea and other hot drinks on board
Sheets and towels
Courtesy kit
Mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change
Bike helmet (to book in advance)
App including maps, roadbook, points of interest and GPS tracks
Digital tour information
English speaking tour leader within an international group
Second tour leader with a minimum of 22 people (only aboard Ave Maria)
Guided visit in Mantua
Visit of a cheese factory with tasting of typical Grana Padano
Visit of Amusement rides and Popular Entertainment Museum
Visit of a historic glass factory on Murano island
Some short walking tours
Harbour charges
Bus transfer Ferrara-Zelo / Ferrara-Adria
1 dinner
Beverages on board
Museums, fees and extras in general
Ticket for public transportation in Venice and lagoon (we suggest the ACTV 48hticket,
35 €)
Venice Municipality Access Fee: it is expected to enter into force in summer 2023
(approx. 18-30 € to be paid on site)
Tips
Everything not mentioned in the section “Included”
Important for the tour
Description
Discover the allure of Northern Italy on a journey that combines the serenity of river travel with the excitement of exploring by bike.
The tour sets off from the iconic canals of Venice, a city that needs no introduction, with its labyrinth of waterways and rich tapestry of history. As the journey unfolds, guests will be treated to the vibrant scenes of Chioggia, a bustling and colorful fishing town that mirrors the charm of Venice on a smaller scale.
Nature enthusiasts will revel in the biodiversity of the Po Delta, a sanctuary for birdlife and a serene escape from the bustle of urban life. The historical significance of the tour is highlighted in Adria, an ancient port city that once served as a bustling nexus of Roman trade.
Renaissance splendor comes to life in Ferrara, a city that resonates with the legacy of the Este dynasty, showcasing an array of historical landmarks. Mantua, the concluding highlight, stands as a cultural beacon with its medieval and Renaissance architecture, surrounded by tranquil lakes that enhance its ethereal beauty.
Each day’s ride is punctuated by the pleasures of regional cuisine, served back on board, where the flavors of the local fare are as much a part of the journey as the sights themselves.
This tour is a voyage through the soul of Northern Italy, promising memories that will linger long after the journey concludes.
Ships
Ave Maria
The Ave Maria barge is a floating retreat that marries comfort with elegance. Above deck, superior cabins offer expansive windows that bring in the serene views and fresh air, while cozy below-deck cabins promise restful nights. Each space is thoughtfully appointed with air conditioning and modern comforts nestled within. The living area, a spacious haven, is split into a restaurant and lounge where guests can indulge in the pleasures of Italian coffee and connectivity. Dual sundecks beckon for leisurely afternoons, and the barge’s amenities ensure every need is met, from secure bike storage to the little luxuries of a courtesy kit.
Vita Pugna
The Vita Pugna barge exudes a quaint charm, offering a tranquil escape with its air-conditioned, twin-bed cabins adorned with traditional portholes that frame river views. The lounge, a cozy hub for socializing, serves up warmth with free Italian coffee, while the sundeck invites quiet relaxation under the open sky. Modern amenities like Wi-Fi and a large lounge screen blend seamlessly with the barge’s intimate atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable, connected journey on the water.
Start planning today!
Things to know
Helmets are mandatory for all cyclists in Turkey, and Croatia, and for minors in several other European countries. While not obligatory elsewhere, we recommend bringing your own for safety. Helmets are available for rent on our tours.
You’re welcome to bring your own bicycle on most tours. Please confirm space availability on your chosen vessel in advance. Note that we are not liable for any loss or damage to personal bicycles. If you don’t have your bicycle, you can rent it on our tours.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to enjoy the tours, which typically involve 40-60 kilometers of cycling daily, averaging around 5 hours of riding.
Our tours are designed to immerse you in the experience, hence a support vehicle is not part of the journey. Participants are encouraged to complete the daily cycling stages with their fellow cyclists.
To ensure the integrity of our rental bikes and your safety, we do not allow personal pedals to be attached to them.
While our routes are planned for full-day adventures, certain tours may offer the flexibility to return to the ship earlier, subject to the ship’s docking capabilities.
The adventure each day can span from 30 to 60 kilometers, with the time spent cycling influenced by your pace and the number of stops to soak in the scenery.
Our guides converse fluently in Dutch, English, and German, with some also proficient in French or Italian. Briefings are conducted in English and sometimes in German.
The number of companions on your journey will vary, with smaller ships often at full capacity and larger vessels typically filled to 80-90%.
Accommodations range from cozy standard cabins to luxurious superior suites, with each ship offering its unique array of options.
Stay connected with Wi-Fi available across all our vessels, with specifics outlined in our Travel Preparation guide.
To maintain the serene ambiance of our ships, laundry services are not offered on board.
Some ships equip cabins with hairdryers, while others can provide them upon request.
Our ships maintain a smoke-free environment in cabins and indoor public areas, with designated smoking zones available on deck on most vessels.
To ensure the comfort of all our guests, pets are not permitted on board, with the exception of crew members’ dogs that are familiar with life at sea.
Seasickness is uncommon due to the stability of our vessels and the typically calm waters on our routes.
Parking solutions are tailored to each departure point, with options like P+R facilities and valet services detailed in your pre-travel boarding information.
You will receive comprehensive travel details to your ship’s location upon booking, including information on parking and available transfer services.
Our guests are generally between the ages of 45 and 65, bringing a wealth of life experiences to share.
Our tours attract a global audience, from the far reaches of Scandinavia to the southern tips of Africa, and from the Americas to Asia.
Packing light is key, as cabin space is optimized for comfort and not for large luggage.
Our tour leaders are equipped to assist with minor issues, and in case of emergencies, the local emergency number 112 should be contacted.
For your safety, helmets are available for rent on most tours, and are included with our Premium tour packages.
You are welcome to enjoy the amenities on board instead of cycling. Please inform the tour leader or crew of your plans.
Our tours proceed rain or shine, with your safety as our top priority. You have the freedom to cycle or remain on board, based on your comfort with the weather conditions.
Weather conditions can vary from country to country and from season to season, so we suggest preparing for everything from rain to bright sunshine. For a detailed forecast, AccuWeather is a reliable source.
Not always. We suggest you bring your own equipment if you plan to snorkel.
Life-saving boats and life jackets are available on all ships and can be found in marked wardrobes on the deck, in the salon, or under the beds in cabins. In case you cannot swim, it is important to inform the crew and the captain. While on the ship, it is essential to pay attention to the following safety measures:
The stairs on the vessels can be steep and narrow, so it’s important to be careful while going up or down. The decks can also be very slippery, especially in wet conditions, so passengers should use caution and hold onto the railings when walking around the vessel.
Climbing the foremast, jumping off the deck during the cruise, or going too far from the vessel during swim pauses are strictly prohibited.
In the busy high season, harbors can become congested, and vessels may have to dock beside each other, so it is essential to exercise caution when moving between them. Crew members are available to assist passengers who require help. However, the cruise is not recommended for those with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.
The length of the cycling routes planned for each day is an estimate and takes into account local conditions and possible detours or shortcuts. The sailing and cycling routes may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and the abilities of the cyclists on board. Typically, departures are in the morning, usually after breakfast.
Bringing and consuming your own beverages on the vessel is prohibited. Instead, you can order drinks from the vessel’s salon, which serves as a restaurant, living room, and bar. The bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you would like a drink that is unavailable at the time, please inform the crew, and they will do their best to arrange it for you at the next port of call.