Italy Venice is looking for new gondoliers for canal cruises

Gondoliers and their black boats have always characterized the cityscape of Venice: every day, the gondoliers in their striped shirts and straw hats on their heads manoeuvre numerous tourists through the narrow canals of the northern Italian lagoon city. But apparently they are running out.

The city government of Venice is looking for new gondoliers and is offering a training course for the traditional profession.

However, the criteria for entering the profession are very strict. First of all, licenses for the gondola are few and far between. According to local media, only around 440 gondoliers currently hold such a license. Licenses are often inherited and passed down from generation to generation. The admission restrictions for training are also strict. At the beginning there is a course in which the participants learn the "art of the gondolier".

English lessons and behavior towards tourists

Applications for this course were open until today, Tuesday. According to the announcement, it consists of a theoretical and practical part as well as a rowing test. The trainees will learn the basics of shipping law and the art history of Venice. English lessons are also included to enable them to communicate with tourists. The course also aims to teach the correct way to deal with tourists.

The most important part of the 40-hour course is the practical part, in which gondolier masters teach the characteristic stern rowing. The course ends with a rigorous examination. If they pass, participants receive a certificate, which they can then use to register for an examination at the Venice Chamber of Commerce. The final step is to apply for a license. The costs for the course, around 800 euros, must be paid by the participants themselves.

Up to 110 euros for a 30-minute gondola ride

Last year, the city government increased the price of gondola rides. According to the city, a 30-minute ride during the day costs 90 euros, with the price rising to 110 euros from 7 p.m. onwards. With an estimated 15 million visitors a year, Venice is one of the most visited cities in the world. In order to better control the crowds of tourists, the city tested an entrance fee for day visitors until the summer.

SDA