Hi fodorites!

I am asking to all of Venice fans. Can anyone comment on first hand experience about the Regata Storica?

We love Venice, and are planning to see the regata this year, and I am sre we can profit from any first hab experiences and opinions. Is it worth it?

Please, forgive my poor english.

Thanksmto all!!

Any information? Thanks!

My husband and I attended the Historic Regatta in Venice 2 years ago. It is preceded by a fantastic parade of 16th century style boats and occupants in period dress which starts in St Marks Basin and goes up the Canal. People line up early for the parade. We got there 1 1/2 hrs before the parade started and people were already in place waiting for the start. We found a nice shady spot (it was a very hot afternoon) on Fondamenta Vin Castello just north of the Rialto on the west side of the canal. We had been warned that although the bridges would be excellent viewpoints that in the past authorities cleared the bridges before the race and we didn't want to take any chances. There are also some restaurants with great views of the parade but we noticed that the tables were all reserved. If you think you might want to do this you would need to reserve ahead. It was a fun time and we were in an area that seemed to be occupied mostly by Venetians. The race which follows is also interesting and there are several categories of rowers.
Another note: The night before we rode a vaporetto down the Grand Canal and there were lots of interesting parties celebrating the event as some people (actors I think) were in period dress.We also found that some hotels in Venice required a minimum number of nights stay during the regatta.

Thanks Catia! This is exactly the information we were needing, our main interest is the previous parade, not realy the competition. I read in previous days there is a Blessing ceremony and many parties, and the Gran Canal has the best look.
Thanks once again.