A Riva Aquarama speedboat on the Canal Grande (Grand Canal)
Seen from the Ponte della Costituzione (Constitution Bridge)
Venice, September 2012
“Venice’s water-taxis are sleek and speedy vehicles that can penetrate most of the city’s canals. Unfortunately their use is confined to all but the owners of the deepest pockets, for they are possibly the most expensive form of taxi in western Europe: the clock starts at €13 and goes up €1.80 every minute. All sorts of surcharges are levied as well: €5 for each extra person if there are more than two people in the party; €3 for each piece of luggage other than the first item; €8 for a ride between 10pm and 6am. There are three ways of getting a taxi: go to one of the main stands (at Piazzale Roma, the train station, Rialto and San Marco Vallaresso), find one in the process of disgorging its passengers, or call one by phone. If you phone for one, you’ll pay a surcharge, of course.” (Jonathan Buckley, The Rough Guide to Venice & the Veneto)
Speedboats are not my favorite.
ReplyDeleteAnd after reading these prices, I'll be sure to avoid them!