Cruising Italy’s Venetian Treasures

Italy’s Veneto region is a feast for the senses, romantic waterways, charming villages, and rich history unfold at every turn. Uniworld’s Venice and the Jewels of Veneto river cruise offers the perfect way to explore this magical part of the world, combining luxury with local charm and a dash of adventure.

But sometimes, travel throws you an unexpected curveball. During the famous Venetian flood season, the experience can be even more memorable, Uniworld’s seamless handling of changing conditions turns what could be a challenge into an extraordinary opportunity.

Venice is a city that thrives on water, and that water occasionally likes to remind everyone who’s in charge. When I traveled with Uniworld in 2019 during the worst floods the city had seen in 53 years, I expected a few hiccups. Instead, what I experienced was a masterclass in flexibility and guest care.

Instead of the planned walking tour, we cruised through the city in private boats, gliding up the Grand Canal as Venice revealed itself from a unique perspective. Seeing the city from the water at a time when streets had temporarily become rivers made the experience feel even more special. With calm efficiency, the crew adjusted plans and ensured that every moment of the trip was memorable for all the right reasons.

Of course, the itinerary goes far beyond Venice. This cruise offers a rare opportunity to see lesser-known treasures of Northern Italy. The colorful islands of Murano and Burano are a highlight, with Murano’s glassblowing heritage and Burano’s lace-making traditions giving insight into the region’s artisanal past.

Further afield, Chioggia, a quieter alternative to Venice, offers a relaxed pace and authentic Italian charm. Padua’s fresco-filled chapels and historic streets invite exploration, while a day trip to Verona adds romance and history with its ancient amphitheater and connection to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

And then there’s the food. In Bologna, often called the food capital of Italy, every bite is an indulgence, from rich ragù to handmade tortellini. For wine lovers, a visit to the Valpolicella region is a chance to sip some of Italy’s finest reds.

The beauty of traveling with Uniworld is that you’re never simply along for the ride. The S.S. La Venezia feels like a floating boutique hotel, with every detail thoughtfully designed to reflect Venetian elegance. From the staterooms to the onboard dining, everything is crafted to provide the ultimate luxury experience.

But it’s the service and flexibility that truly set this journey apart. When Mother Nature makes other plans, Uniworld is ready to adapt. Whether it’s organizing alternative excursions or adjusting schedules, they ensure that no experience is lost, only enhanced.

The Venice and the Jewels of Veneto cruise is much more than a trip through Northern Italy. It’s a journey of discovery, resilience, and beauty, an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home. And if you’re lucky enough to witness Venice during flood season, you might just find that the unexpected moments are the most magical of all.