Italy
Italy is a country seemingly designed for hotel barging. Its beautiful canals and rivers pass through diverse landscapes and nature en route, from picturesque lagoon islands with their colourful houses, to wild beach dunes and pine woods with an abundance of birdlife. These waterways were once the ancient trade routes used by the Romans and the early Mediterranean settlers before them and are perfect for gaining a real insight into the many cultures, including Roman, Etruscan, Istrian, Byzantine and of course Renaissance, that have influenced the arts, architecture and history of the region over many centuries.
Venice of course is a jewel in the crown of any Italian cruise. The lagoon surrounding Venice, the Venice Lido beach, Hemingway's influence, the fabulous Villas on the River Brenta all complement the attractions of Venice itself where one could spend at least 6 months enjoying the amazing Renaissance architecture before venturing inside some of the buildings to discover the works of Canaletto, Tintoretto, and many other Italian masters.
Delicious seafood, local culinary specialities, fine wines and attentive service complete the picture of this fairytale adventure.
This map represents one of the sample itineraries we offer in this region.
Throughout the season the 20 passenger
La Bella Vita cruises between the romance and architecture of Venice, to the captivating lakeside setting of the Renaissance city of Mantua. Mantua is in central northern Italy, and has been a hub of art, culture and music for centuries. The route inland takes you along the River Po and the Bianco Canal through the Po Valley. La Bella Vita is the newest addition to our fleet and is the perfect vessel from which to immerse yourself in Italian Renaissance culture.
Cruises and barges in Italy