While browsing for “Things to Do in San Diego” on TripAdvisor. I came across this unique activity. Read a little more about it and booked 8 tickets – 7 adults and a 5-year-old. The “Venetian” experience in the Canals of the Coronado Cays turned out to be quite memorable.
We arrived at the docks a little early because we were not sure about the parking spaces, and wanted to be on time for the ride just in case we had to spend time looking for a spot. It turned out that parking was plentiful – always a bonus.
We checked in, and while waiting for our two Gondoliers – Niko and Luca – to get our boats ready, we were able to admire a glorious Sunset that lasted halfway through our ride. That natural beauty added so much to our enjoyment…
Niko was our gondolier. He made it easy for us to get into our boats, and then played some soft music while he easily steered the boat. On the way back, he belted out a typical Italian song about calm waters, peaceful surroundings and the Moon. He had an amazing voice that even left our little kid enchanted and mesmerized.
Our side-by-side rides took us through the neighboring canals and a small part of the Bay. The surrounding houses, boats and yachts were beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas decorations.
Before we left the docks for our pleasure cruise, the sweet lady at the counter had taken a photo of all of us. At the end, she gave us a card with their website listed on it, and informed us that the photos that she took would stay on the site for 30 days, and we could download them for free. That was a tiny, but very considerate and thoughtful gesture, since we got all of us in one frame. What a pleasant surprise that was…!
All of us thoroughly enjoyed this Italian experience right here in San Diego. It will stay in our memories for a long time.
We will have no hesitation in doing this again on our next visit, and highly recommend this fabulous experience to all tourists, as well as locals.