Who is the person steering the gondola?

Gondoliers have their oar. Oars are used to propel and steer the boats, and the design used is very specific to propelling gondola through Venice's shallow, narrow canals. Each oar is carved to suit the needs of each gondolier to ensure accuracy in movement. There are female gondoliers.



The person steering a traditional Venetian gondola is known as a Gondolier (or Gondoliere in Italian). This is one of the most prestigious and tightly regulated professions in Venice, often passed down through families over generations. To become a gondolier in 2026, candidates must undergo rigorous training, which includes mastering the unique voga alla veneziana (rowing style) where they stand facing forward and use a single long oar. They must also pass a comprehensive examination covering Venetian history, landmarks, and foreign language proficiency. The gondolier doesn't just "row"; they use a specialized wooden oar rest called a forcola, which allows them to maneuver the 11-meter-long, asymmetrical boat through the city’s narrow, crowded canals with surgical precision. Traditionally, gondoliers wear a distinctive striped shirt (red or blue) and a straw hat with a ribbon. While historically a male-dominated field, Venice saw its first official female gondolier, Giorgia Boscolo, qualify in 2010, breaking a thousand-year tradition and paving the way for more diversity in this iconic maritime trade.

People Also Ask

In the old days, four gondoliers typically shared ownership of a single gondola, with three oarsmen to row the boat and an additional person on a dock who helped bring it ashore again. But modern gondolas and gondoliers are strictly controlled by a guild that oversees the boats' production, maintenance, and licensing.

MORE DETAILS

In the old days, four gondoliers typically shared ownership of a single gondola, with three oarsmen to row the boat and an additional person on a dock who helped bring it ashore again. But modern gondolas and gondoliers are strictly controlled by a guild that oversees the boats' production, maintenance, and licensing.

MORE DETAILS

Giorgia Boscolo! It was her! For over 900 years, only men could hold the gondolier position. Then in 2010, Giorgia Boscolo became the first gondoliera in Venetian history.

MORE DETAILS

While tipping is not required, a 5% tip is appreciated if your gondolier is helpful and informative about local attractions and monuments.

MORE DETAILS

The Gondoliers were dressed mostly in black to match the color of the Gondola. Some wore all white. After World War 2, The stripes became a part of the uniform. Some say they were to match the striped poles in front of the Palazzo's on the Grand Canal.

MORE DETAILS

How much can a gondola driver expect to earn? This is one of the most highly-regarded and sought-after professions in Italy. Its training may be rigorous, but it's certainly worth it - a Venetian gondolier can expect to earn around $150,000 each year.

MORE DETAILS

It's not easy to become a gondolier Prospective gondoliers must complete 400 hours of training before passing a test to prove their knowledge of how to operate a gondola, Venetian landmarks and history, and language skills. Little wonder that only three or four gondolier licences are issued each year.

MORE DETAILS

Weddings on our iconic gondolas are a special setting that can't be duplicated anywhere else. No matter what you're looking for in your wedding day – the grandiose or the simple and dignified – we can help you achieve it at The Venetian Resort. *Weddings booked within 7 days will incur a booking fee.

MORE DETAILS

Can You Drink In Gondolas In Venice? Yes, you can bring a bottle of wine into the gondola. In Venice, you are allowed to have your drink while on the streets. However, Venetians do it mainly during big events such as the Carnevale.

MORE DETAILS