You like boats and you like holidays, so why not treat yourself to a charter? From hiring a Linssen in France to bareboating in Thailand, there's a world of choice
Italy
Venice is the obvious choice for a boating holiday and one of the most beautiful places in the world and it can be easily incorporated into a cruise up the Italian North east coast from Porto Levante to Casier.
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Fly into Marco Polo Airport from Gatwick with EasyJet and a one-hour taxi transfer will take you to Porto Levante, where Le Boat have a charter base.
For first-timers, a thorough induction will explain how to navigate the lagoon by following the clearly marked canals, and the free moorings and the private marinas in and around Venice.
Free moorings have no facilities – not even water – and hiring bikes in this region is a must and it will give you the freedom to explore the beautiful towns along the coast. We’d recommend the vibrant town of Chioggia, the famous seaside resort of Lido, home of the Venice Film Festival.
As hireboats are unable to venture into the heart of Venice try the tying up at the free moorings on the island of Mazzorbo and take a water taxi to the centre, past the entrance to the Grand Canal to the iconic St Mark’s Square.
If the tourists and expense of central Venice become a bit overwhelming try the island of Burano. With its brightly coloured houses, lace-making heritage and historic bell tower it’s a haven for tourists.
Boat hire
Le Boat has 15 different hireboats in its Italian fleet, ranging from a four-berth Corvette to an eight-berth Royal Magnifique. Unfortunately they aren’t the prettiest of boats but they are ideal for those with little experience as they are easy to handle.
Le Boat,
Tel: 0844 463 3594
www.leboat.co.uk
email sales@leboat.co.uk
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