Italy's glamorous Veneto region is home to exquisite islands, world-famous art museums and a rich history reflected in its elegant architecture. With its iconic network of canals and peaceful waterways, a luxury river cruise is the perfect way to explore everything the Venetian Lagoon has to offer.
Join us for a memorable eight-day cruise on board the glamorous S.S. La Venezia, a small ship with lavish furnishings influenced by the inimitable style of Venice. Making this voyage extra-special is the company of Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, who'll host a private Q&A session about his life and career, give a talk onboard the ship whilst he hosts a welcome drinks reception where photos will be available. Tom will also offer guests an onboard cooking demonstration, with small tasting plates available throughout.
Over the course of the week you'll see the highlights and hidden gems of the Veneto, including exclusive access to some of Venice's top attractions. Step inside the awe-inspiring St Mark's Basilica after nightfall to witness a peaceful lighting ceremony, and venture inside the church on Torcello before it opens to the public for a moment of tranquillity.
Also included in the itinerary is VIP access to Doge's palace during an early morning visit. There's a range of other excursions too, all included. Whether you want to join walking tours to learn more about the history of the lagoon or cycle along the beaches of Chioggia, there'll be plenty to keep you occupied.
There's plenty of time to visit all the unmissable sights of Venice and get to know Burano, Mazzorbo, Torcello, Chioggia, and Murano, painting a complete picture of life in the Venetian Lagoon.
And, when you're not exploring on land, take time to relax in the wonderful facilities on S.S. La Venezia, including three dining venues, a spa, library, lounge and bar.
Tom Kerridge is a British chef whose restaurant journey began in 2005, when he took over The Hand & Flowers in Marlow. Tom and his wife Beth turned the run-down pub into a Michelin-starred gastropub in the very same year, and earned a second Michelin star in 2021.
Today you'll arrive at Venice Marco Polo airport, where you'll meet your transfer and later board the elegant S.S. La Venezia, your home for the week. You'll have some spare time to unpack and settle into your Riverview Stateroom before dinner.
Today starts with an early morning visit to the Doge's Palace to explore this usually busy site in peace. You'll enter through a side door, which is usually reserved for dignitaries and VIPs.
In the afternoon, there will be a drinks reception with Tom Kerridge, who will give a talk on his career followed by a Q&A and book signing (book not supplied - guests will need to bring their own books for Tom to sign).
Later, take a stroll through a traditional Venetian neighbourhood to see how local life unfolds in this fascinating city. Tonight, you'll attend a private after-hours lighting ceremony inside St Mark's Basilica without the crowds.
After breakfast on your ship, decide whether you'd prefer to visit Vicenza or Padua - both are UNESCO World Heritage Cities.
In the afternoon, you'll reboard the ship for a scenic journey across the lagoon towards Burano and Mazzorbo. Tom Kerridge will host an onboard cooking demonstration with tasters.
This evening, your captain will host a special welcome reception and dinner.
This morning you'll visit Torcello's basilica, the oldest church in the Venetian lagoon. You'll be joined by an art historian who'll share an expert commentary as you explore. There's time for coffee in a traditional osteria before returning to the ship.
In the afternoon you can decide whether to explore Burano or Mazzorbo or watch a glass-blowing demonstration on Murano.
You'll have a choice of excursions in Chioggia today. You can opt to visit a local food market, bike along the beachfront, head to a grand castle or learn about the region's winemaking and stay for a tasting (not included).
This morning, explore the Po Delta at the point where the Adriatic Sea meets the Po River on a sailing excursion. Later, during lunch, we sail back to Venice.
Today you'll board a water taxi to glide through the Venice canals, arriving in style at the Rialto Bridge. From here you can visit Rialto market, take a walking tour or visit a mask atelier to see how the intricate masks worn at the Carnival of Venice are made.
A special Captain's Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
After a final breakfast on board, you'll disembark S.S. La Venezia and a transfer will take you to the airport for your flight back to London.
Glamorous Uniworld ship sailing the Po and Venice Lagoon
Paying homage to classic Venetian style, the S.S La Venezia is no ordinary cruise ship. This elegant vessel was renovated in 2020, bringing a new level of luxury and decadence to river sailing. With nods to its locale, the ship features Murano glass and splendid gilding that add to a sparkling onboard atmosphere. All the staterooms are river-facing with marble bathrooms and luxury amenities.
To view Uniworld’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.