Ravenna is a fantastic hub for boat tours and cruises thanks to its strategic location along Italy’s coastline and the proximity to Venice. While Ravenna itself is famed for its mosaics and Byzantine architecture, it’s also a convenient gateway to exploring Venice’s waterways without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded bridges. One of our favorite options is the Ravenna Port to Venice with Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola, which offers a seamless way to combine transportation with an immersive tour of Venice’s highlights. It’s especially ideal for cruise ship travelers who want a stress-free day exploring Venice’s iconic sites like St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge.
In this list, you’ll find a range of experiences, from private transfers for a quick, comfortable ride to detailed sightseeing tours with expert guides. Whether you’re after a luxurious water taxi ride, a private airport transfer, or a more comprehensive Venice city tour, each option is designed to make your journey smoother and more memorable. Many tours include luggage storage, private vehicles, and knowledgeable guides, ensuring you get the most out of your limited time.
Below, we highlight the twelve best boat tours and cruises in Ravenna. Each offers a uniquely memorable way to experience Italy’s waterways, whether you prefer a speedy transfer, a leisurely cruise, or an guided tour with insider insights.
1. Ravenna Port to Venice with Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola
For those arriving at Ravenna’s cruise port, this Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola ranks high for its combination of convenience, comfort, and a truly authentic Venice experience. The tour kicks off with a luxurious 2.5-hour drive through Italy’s scenic countryside, personalized with a professional driver. Once in Venice, you’ll store your luggage safely as your guide takes you on a water taxi along the Grand Canal, avoiding the crowds and summer heat. The tour includes a private gondola ride for up to five passengers, offering that quintessential Venice moment.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—small group sizes and expert commentary ensure you avoid the stress of navigation or lost sightseeing. Reviewers frequently mention the excellent communication, the comfort of the ride, and the memorable guide who shares stories about Venice’s waterway culture. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a hassle-free day with a dash of romance.
Bottom line: If you want an all-in-one, easy-to-book experience that combines transportation, sightseeing, and a gondola ride, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for cruise travelers with limited time but a deep desire to see Venice’s iconic sights comfortably.
2. Ravenna City or Cruise Port to Venice Airport (VCE) – Departure Private Transfer
Need a reliable way to get to Venice’s airport? This private transfer service is tailored for travelers who want comfort and certainty. Starting from Ravenna, this VCE departure transfer offers a door-to-door experience in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. It’s especially helpful for those with tight flight schedules or heavy luggage.
The reviews highlight how smoothly this service operates, with drivers who are punctual and courteous. The price reflects the exclusivity and comfort: for around $354.40 per person, you enjoy a direct, stress-free ride. It’s perfect for those who prefer to avoid public transport or shared shuttles, and it works well whether you’re arriving straight from the cruise port or a Ravenna hotel.
Bottom line: If you prioritize a comfortable, private transfer with flexible pickup times, this option is reliable and stress-free, especially for early flights or tight schedules.
3. Private transfer Explorer of the Seas Ravenna cruise port to Venice airport
For cruise passengers on the Explorer of the Seas, this private transfer offers a seamless way to reach Venice Marco Polo Airport. It’s a personalized service that guarantees on-time pickup, with plenty of space for luggage and the comfort of a professional driver. The ride takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes but feels much shorter thanks to the smooth, climate-controlled vehicle.
What makes this transfer appealing is the peace of mind, knowing your driver will be waiting and your journey will be tailored to your schedule. Reviewers mention the safety and comfort of the ride, and the fact that all vehicles are well-equipped with luggage space and child seats if needed.
Bottom line: This is a practical choice for cruisers who want to avoid the hassle of coordinating their own transportation and prefer a relaxed, private ride to catch their flight.
4. Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice + water taxi – Arrival Transfer
If you’re arriving in Venice and want a luxurious, hassle-free experience, this transfer with water taxi is a top contender. Your driver will meet you at Ravenna or the cruise port, whisking you directly to Venice via private water taxi—bypassing long lines and crowded bridges. Once in Venice, you’ll transfer to a water taxi, making your arrival in the city smooth and elegant.
Guests consistently praise Francesco, the driver, for his courteous and helpful service, and the spotless vehicle. This option includes flight tracking and door-to-door service, making it ideal for travelers who want to skip the chaos of public transport.
Bottom line: This is perfect if you’re arriving in Venice after a cruise and want a seamless, private water transfer to your accommodation or water taxi.
5. Ravenna: Cruise Terminal From/to Venice
This private transfer offers a straightforward service between Ravenna’s cruise terminal and Venice. It’s a simple, reliable option for travelers who want a comfortable ride with minimal fuss. The focus here is on safety and ease, providing a tailored experience that suits early or late departures.
Guests note the promptness and professionalism of the driver, making it a good budget-friendly choice for quick transfers. It’s especially worth considering if you prefer a pre-arranged private ride over waiting in line for a shuttle.
Bottom line: Ideal for cruisers wanting a hassle-free connection, this transfer keeps things simple and comfortable.
6. Transfer from Cruise Terminal of Ravenna to Bologna Airport
Traveling from Ravenna to Bologna Airport? This private transfer service is a quick and comfortable choice. For around $456.93, it can accommodate up to five people in a luxury Mercedes-Benz minivan, making it excellent for families or groups. The driver will be waiting at Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal, ready to whisk you directly to Bologna Airport in approximately an hour.
Recent reviews praise the friendly driver, the well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle, and the timely service. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the complexities of public transport or rental cars, especially with luggage in tow.
Bottom line: If you value comfort and convenience for a short, direct ride to Bologna, this private transfer is a solid choice.
7. Ravenna city or Cruise Port to Bologna Airport (BLQ) – Departure Private Transfer
This departure transfer from Ravenna to Bologna Airport offers a personalized experience, with a driver waiting at your hotel or cruise port. For just over $316, you get a reliable, door-to-door service in a clean, comfortable vehicle, with the driver ready to depart at your preferred time.
Reviewers mention how courteous and punctual the drivers are, making this a dependable option for early flights. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to avoid the unpredictability of public transportation.
Bottom line: For flexible timing and a stress-free ride, this private transfer is a dependable choice.
8. Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice Airport (VCE) Departure Transfer
For those departing from Ravenna, this VCE departure transfer offers a private, comfortable ride to Venice Airport. With a typical duration of 2.5 hours, it includes professional drivers, no hidden fees, and ample luggage space.
Reviewers appreciate the timeliness and efficiency of the service—one noted the driver stopped for a quick restroom break, making the trip smoother. The price is higher at around $408, but the reliability and comfort justify the expense.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want peace of mind and a personalized ride to Venice Airport, especially if on a tight schedule.
9. Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice, Piazzale Roma – Arrival Transfer
This arrival transfer provides a private ride directly to Piazzale Roma, the main bus and taxi terminal in Venice. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid lugging bags through crowded streets.
Guests mention their driver Matteo was helpful and efficient, fitting all luggage comfortably into the van. The service typically takes about 2 hours 20 minutes and offers peace of mind for those arriving in Venice and heading to accommodations or onward transportation.
Bottom line: If you need a reliable, door-to-door transfer to Venice’s main arrival hub, this is a smart choice.
10. Transfer Celebrity Constellation Ravenna cruise terminal to Marco Polo airport
This transfer is tailored specifically for Celebrity Cruises’ passengers. It offers a stress-free, private ride from Ravenna to Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. The drive typically lasts around two hours, with the driver ensuring timely arrival for your flight. Reviewers highlight the excellent communication and professional service.
It’s an ideal option for cruise passengers wishing to avoid the chaos of last-minute logistics, especially since pickup is inside the cruise terminal. The cost is about $347 per person, reflecting the focus on reliability and comfort.
Bottom line: Best suited for Celebrity cruise travelers who want a seamless, punctual transfer to their departing flight.
11. Private Transfer from Ravenna Cruise Terminal to Venice Airport
This private group transfer offers a luxurious, spacious ride for up to 6 people. It takes approximately 2.5 hours and includes climate-controlled Mercedes vehicles. Reviewers mention prompt service and professional drivers who make the journey comfortable and secure.
The main advantage is flexibility—drivers meet you directly at the cruise terminal and ensure you’re at Venice Airport well in advance of your flight. It’s a top choice for larger groups or families wanting exclusive space and convenience.
Bottom line: If traveling with others, this private, comfortable transfer guarantees a relaxed end to your Ravenna trip.
12. Ravenna: Transfer from Cruise Terminal to BLQ airport
For a straightforward, private ride to Bologna Airport, this transfer offers luxury Mercedes vans and flexible timing. It’s easy to book, and reviewers note the friendly, punctual service and clean vehicles.
While not the cheapest, it’s a convenient option if you want to save time and avoid stress, especially when flying out of Bologna.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking premium comfort on their way to Bologna Airport.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise in Ravenna
Picking the best water adventure depends on your schedule, interests, and budget. If you’re a cruise passenger, the Ravenna Port to Venice with Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola offers the perfect blend of sightseeing and stress-free travel. For those flying out of Venice, private transfers ensure comfort and punctuality.
Budget-conscious travelers should consider shared or straightforward private transfers to Bologna or Venice airports, while families or groups may prefer the extra space of luxury Mercedes services. Timing is also key—if you have a tight schedule, booking a private transfer guarantees you won’t be left waiting.
Book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and vehicle type. Think about whether you want a full-day sightseeing experience with guides or just a simple transfer—each tour on this list is designed to match different needs.
Final Thoughts
From luxury water taxis to comprehensive guided tours, Ravenna offers a variety of ways to experience Italy’s waterways. For a truly memorable Venice visit, the tour that combines transportation with a gondola ride stands out. Meanwhile, if your main concern is getting to the airport comfortably, private transfers eliminate all the guesswork and waiting.
If you’re traveling with a group, consider the private vehicle options, and for solo travelers or couples, the more intimate tours provide a personal touch. Remember to book early, especially for popular dates, and double-check your pickup times to ensure your water adventure in Ravenna is as smooth as possible.
No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the charm of Italy’s waterways—an experience that sticks with you long after your trip ends.
