This is the REAL version of the Venetian Gondola. Fully functional at 15 feet long and beautifully painted in its original color black with a white stripe. We also have a 21 and 36-foot long gondola available, upon request. This boat was completely handcrafted and took about 600-800 hours to build. We still use the traditional method of construction while integrating the highest quality of materials currently available. Strips of red and yellow cedar are joined together by hand and then encapsulated in fiberglass, bonded in place with epoxy resin then coated with marine vanish. This combination of fiberglass and epoxy is very strong, and the wood will be protected for generations. - Weight Capacity: 500 lbs (227kg), 3-person. - Item weight: 392 Lbs (178 Kg) - Max Horse Power Rating: 2HP - Come with a wooden motor mount (side mount). - An electric trolling motor is recommended. Watch a video of this boat with an electric motor. Watch a video of this boat with rowing technique. Also available in 21Ft item K223 and 36ft Item K151 Important Note: This gondola is a SPECIAL ORDER item; when it's not in stock, it may take about 30-60 days for us to build and ship it to you. If delivery time is sensitive, please verify with us.
History
The most famous and characteristic symbol of Venice is the Gondola. This boat represents a typical Venetian Gondola circa 1882. The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. For centuries gondolas were the chief means of transportation and most common watercraft within Venice. In modern times the iconic boats still have a role in public transport in the city, serving as traghetti (ferries) over the Grand Canal. They are also used in special regattas (rowing races) held amongst gondoliers. The gondola is propelled like punting, except an oar is used instead of a pole. The model now is rebuilt without the roof in the middle of the boat and used to carry tourists along the Venice River in Italy.
