Day 1: VENICE
Boarding at 6 p.m. Introduction of the crew and welcome cocktail. Free evening.
Day 2: VENICE
Morning, included excursion: guided tour of the Doge's Palace. Also known as the Palazzo Ducale, the Doge's Palace is one of the most iconic buildings in Venice. Built in the 11th century as the residence and seat of the government of the Republic of Venice, it is famous for its imposing architecture and richly adorned interior decoration. You will wander through the palace halls and admire paintings by Tintoretto and Veronese, then cross the famous Bridge of Sighs to reach the prison. Built in the 16th century, it was used to escort prisoners from the courtroom to the dungeon. From the balconies and windows, you will also enjoy stunning views of the Serenissima and its canals. Return on board.
Lunch on board the cruise.
Afternoon, discover the Christmas village at Campo Santo Stefano and the magic of Christmas in St. Mark's Square. The Campo Santo Stefano Christmas market is by far the largest. With its wooden chalets, it’s a true Christmas village that comes to life in the square. Part of the market is dedicated entirely to local products. Glazed chestnuts, special pasta, creamy nougat, and traditional oils and vinegars are featured. Then, you will head to St. Mark's Square. As night falls, Venice transforms into a true fairy tale. The Christmas lights enhance the facades of the palaces, reflecting in the calm waters of the canals. St. Mark's Square, the heart of the city, hosts a majestic Christmas tree, the highlight of Venice’s holiday decorations. Return on board for dinner.
In the evening: concert at the San Vidal Church, where the Interpreti Veneziani perform. Talented violinists, their concerts are mainly dedicated to the music of Antonio Vivaldi, from L'Estro Armonico to The Four Seasons, as well as his violin concertos and even his symphonies.
Return to the boat after the concert.
Day 3: VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE
Included excursion: visit to the Dorsoduro district, the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, and the nativity scene at the Santa Maria del Rosario church(1). Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Dorsoduro district offers a unique experience blending art, culture, and authenticity. This gem of the Serenissima, bordering the Grand Canal, comes alive during the holidays, creating a warm and magical atmosphere. It will also be an opportunity to visit one of the many churches and admire the nativity scene. Then, visit the baroque Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and considered the protector of Venice. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Venice. Its dome appears on most of the city's iconic postcards. This baroque church, built on nearly 100,000 wooden piles, impresses with its octagonal layout and two majestic domes. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto.
Return on board and sail towards Mazzorbo.
Included excursion: Burano and Murano shine brightly. Depart on foot to explore the beautifully decorated island of Burano during this season. The island is famous worldwide for its lace, as well as its stunning little colorful houses lining the canals of this fishing village. It will also be an opportunity to admire Burano's aquatic nativity scene(2). Then, take a private boat to the island of Murano. Renowned for its beautiful Venetian glass, Murano celebrates Christmas in a big way. Throughout December and into January, the island showcases its craftsmanship. The program includes an outdoor exhibition of local glassware, with glass decorations hanging above the canals, and you’ll encounter small handmade wonders as you stroll through the alleys of this charming little town. Both young and old will be amazed by the magnificent glass Christmas tree. Return on board to Venice. Evening entertainment.
Day 4: VENICE - CHIOGGIA (or the surrounding area) - VENICE
Morning, sailing across the lagoon to Chioggia. You will cross the Venetian lagoon, a vast enclosed basin stretching over 48 km. Since ancient times, its landscapes have captivated visitors, sometimes enchanting, sometimes mesmerizing. To the south, a strip of land called Lido protects the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a sweet tasting onboard, featuring regional specialties: Panettone, Amaretti Italian macarons and Panforte. Late morning, arrival at Chioggia, the gateway to the Adriatic Sea.
Afternoon, included excursion: experience the Magic of Christmas in Padua. Depart by coach from Chioggia to Padua, a major art city in Italy enriched by the masterpieces of Giotto. The tour begins with a visit to the famous Basilica of Saint Anthony, known for its Byzantine domes and minaret towers. The basilica houses a traditional nativity scene that delights both young and old, depicting the Baby Jesus in the manger, in the arms of the Virgin Mary or sometimes Saint Anthony himself. This theme of the Nativity is omnipresent in the iconography of Saint Anthony, who is often depicted holding the Baby Jesus, accompanied by a lily and a book. Continue on foot to the most beautiful squares of Padua with their Christmas markets. During this time, Padua shines brightly and is illuminated at nightfall. In the Piazze dei Signori and Capitaniato, you’ll find the most typical Christmas markets offering a variety of local handicrafts. Further on, the clock tower sparkles like the starry sky of the city’s famous painter, Giotto. On the way back, you’ll see Prato della Valle with its grand Christmas tree. Return on board.
Gala evening.
Day 5: Venice
Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.
07, 11 & 15 December 2025