Traveling out of Venice can sometimes feel more stressful than it needs to be, especially when you’re rushing to catch a flight. The Venice Marco Polo Airport Link Departure Transfer aims to make that final leg of your trip smoother. From what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, this shared water taxi service offers a convenient way to end your Venice stay, especially if you prefer a scenic ride and a reliable schedule.
Two things we really like about this transfer are its ease of booking and the stunning water views you’ll enjoy en route. It’s also a budget-friendly alternative to private taxis, making it appealing to many travelers. That said, there’s a small caveat: the coordination of pickup points can be a little confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with the city’s water stops.
This transfer is best suited for those who appreciate a combination of practicality and scenic beauty—it’s ideal if you want to arrive at the airport relaxed and with minimal hassle, and are comfortable sharing a boat with others. If punctuality and some flexibility are important to you, this could be a good fit.
Key Points

- Convenient pick-up from central Venice or Lido at 11 different locations.
- Enjoy scenic views of Venice as you cruise to the airport.
- Cost-effective compared to private transfers, with a reliable schedule.
- Operates early and late, from 4am to 6pm, seven days a week.
- Requires booking in advance, usually about 46 days ahead.
- Group size is limited to 12 travelers, keeping the experience intimate.
What This Transfer Offers

Planning your departure from Venice can sometimes be tricky, especially when juggling luggage, busy streets, and a tight flight schedule. This shared water taxi transfer aims to cut down the stress by providing a reliable, pre-arranged ride directly from your hotel or designated stop to Marco Polo Airport.
You can select from 11 departure points scattered around Venice, including spots like Piazzale Roma and San Marco. This flexibility means you don’t have to go out of your way—just choose the stop closest to your accommodation. The process is straightforward: you’ll receive a voucher, reconfirm your pickup, and then meet your friendly captain at the appointed time.
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How the Itinerary Works
Once you’ve booked, you’ll get instant confirmation and your travel voucher. You’ll then need to reconfirm your pickup 24-48 hours before using the contact info provided. On the day, your boat skipper will assist with your luggage—something many reviews mention as a helpful touch—and you’ll hop aboard for a quick, scenic cruise to the airport.
The ride lasts approximately 20-30 minutes, with some reviews noting it can be slightly longer depending on weather or traffic conditions. During the trip, you get to see Venice’s skyline and waterways, which adds a memorable farewell to your visit.
The Departure Points
The 11 stops include well-known locations such as Piazzale Roma and San Marco, making it accessible for most travelers. Some reviews praise the timeliness—the water taxis often pick up on time or even a few minutes early, which is a bonus when you’re facing a flight.
The Experience in Practice
Travelers consistently mention that pickup is smooth and punctual, with boat captains being helpful with luggage and friendly in tone. Many find it a more relaxing alternative to public transport or waiting for a vaporetto, especially when carrying heavy bags.
One review highlights that the service is very efficient and reliable, particularly for early flights. The fact that the service operates from 4am makes it ideal for those with early morning departures, giving peace of mind that you’ll get to the airport on time.
The cost of around $45 per person is often seen as good value compared to private options, especially when you consider the scenic experience and the convenience. The reviews indicate that most travelers felt it was worth the price for the ease and comfort it offers.
Cons and Considerations
While many reviews are glowing, some point out that communication about the exact pickup location can be a bit confusing. One traveler mentioned that the water taxi stopped at multiple locations en route, which might cause some initial uncertainty if not properly informed. It’s essential to double-check your pickup details and give yourself plenty of time.
Another consideration is luggage—each traveler is allowed one suitcase and one carry-on, but if you have oversized or excessive luggage, you should confirm with the operator beforehand. Also, in bad weather, the boat service might divert to Piazzale Roma by land vehicle, which could alter your experience slightly.
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Who Will Love This?

If you’re someone who values scenic views combined with practical logistics, this transfer is worth considering. It’s especially good for those staying near one of the departure stops and who want to avoid the hassle of navigating Venice’s busy streets with luggage.
Travelers who are comfortable sharing a boat and don’t mind a small group will find this service a perfect balance of comfort and economy. It’s also a great option for early mornings or late afternoons, thanks to its flexible schedule.
Final Thoughts

For those heading to Marco Polo Airport from Venice, this shared water taxi transfer offers a blend of scenic beauty, reliability, and affordability. It’s a straightforward way to leave Venice with an impressive last view of the city’s waterways, all while avoiding the chaos of other transportation options.
While the coordination and communication could be smoother at times, the overall feedback points to a service that is trustworthy—often praised for its punctuality and friendly staff. The price point makes it accessible, especially when you compare it to private transfers, and the experience of gliding over the canals adds a special touch to your trip’s finale.
If you’re comfortable with a group setting, don’t mind a little bit of variability in timing due to weather, and want to enjoy Venice from its famous waterways one last time, this transfer will suit you well. For travelers seeking a stress-free, scenic, and economical way to get to the airport, this service is definitely worth considering.
Venice Marco Polo Airport Link Departure Transfer
“I was very apprehensive about getting to an early flight. Our flight was changed to 0630. This service was very efficient and reliable. I talked…”
FAQ
How do I book this transfer?
You can book online, receiving an instant confirmation and a travel voucher. Make sure to provide your hotel and flight details when booking.
What are the departure times?
The service runs from 4am to 6pm, seven days a week. Your pickup should be scheduled at least 3 hours before your flight.
How many stops are there?
There are 11 different departure points around Venice, including Piazzale Roma and San Marco, giving you flexible options close to your accommodation.
What if my flight changes?
You’ll need to reconfirm your pickup time and location 24-48 hours before your scheduled transfer. If your flight is delayed or rescheduled, contact the provider promptly.
Is this suitable for heavy luggage?
Each traveler is allowed one suitcase and one carry-on bag. If you have oversized or excessive luggage, check with the operator beforehand to verify if it’s acceptable.
What happens in bad weather?
In foggy or bad weather, the boat might be diverted to Piazzale Roma by land vehicle, which could affect the experience slightly.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled transfer.
Is this transfer family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, the service is generally suitable for most travelers. Just ensure your luggage fits the allowed size and weight.
In all, this transfer combines practicality with the joy of a final Venetian waterway cruise. It’s a smart choice if you want to leave Venice relaxed, with an eye-catching view to finish your trip.
More Private Drivers in Venice
- Venice + water taxi to Ravenna Port – Departure Private Transfer
- Venice, Piazzale Roma to Venice Airport (VCE)- Departure Transfer
- Venice Airport (VCE) to Trieste or Cruise Port Private Transfer
- Private Arrival Transfer from Marco Polo Airport to Venice
- Private transfer from VCE Airport, Venice or Mestre
- Venice Marco Polo Airport Private Departure Transfer
More Tour Reviews in Venice
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- Venice: Venchi Chocolate Tasting and Workshop
- Venice + water taxi to Ravenna Port – Departure Private Transfer
- Venice: Secret City Gardens Walking Tour
- Venice Combo: Gondola, St. Marks Basilica Pala d’Oro option
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- Venice + water taxi to Ravenna Port – Departure Private Transfer
- Venice: Secret City Gardens Walking Tour
- Venice Combo: Gondola, St. Marks Basilica Pala d’Oro option
- Fish Shopping in Rialto and Home Cooking in Murano
- Venice, Piazzale Roma to Venice Airport (VCE)- Departure Transfer
- From Venezia: Murano, Burano, and Torcello Self-Guided Tour
- Venice Marco Polo Airport Link Departure Transfer
- Exclusive Venice Experience:Private Tour on Classic Bragozzo Boat
- Ghosts of Venice – Discovering the Unknown
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