Venice redirects large cruise ships

Long term options that have been discussed include Port Maghera, a new terminal between Lido and Cavallino, as well a terminal at southern end of the lagoon near Chioggia.  ​

The cruise lines industry (CLIA) has proposed using different routing which takes large ships away from central Venice, but which would allow them to dock at the larger Venice port in central Venice allowing passengers direct access to central Venice without the need for additional transportation services.

But none of the options have been acceptable to both the cruise lines which don’t want to make the large investments that new terminals would require, and locals demanding options that will provide better safety and which will protect the environment. 

The interim terminal options are about three miles across the lagoon from Venice. No longer would cruise visitors be able to leave the ship and step into the heart of Venice. For cruise lines this means having to work with local officials for new transportation systems to easily move people from the new ports to central Venice. These options will increase costs as well as add significant time to their passengers wishing to visit Venice. Officials say the long term plans will take time to develop with local involvement.

Luxury cruise lines operate smaller ships and will benefit from these changes as they will still be able to berth in central Venice and traverse the Guidecca Canal.

Summer months are the most popular, which means lots of tourists. In addition, the summer months are the hottest with temperatures becoming stifling, especially with the uncomfortable overload of fellow visitors. We recommend visiting in the shoulder months of April and May, or October and November with cooler day time temperatures and less tourists.