We’re excited to discuss the Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service that transports cruise passengers from the Marittima Cruise Port to central Venice. This convenient option provides a scenic 30-minute boat ride, but it’s crucial to understand the potential challenges and considerations before booking. By exploring the details of this service, you’ll be able to decide if it’s the right fit for your Venice arrival. Let’s dive into the key information about this transfer and how it can enhance your cruise experience.
Key Points

- The Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service operates a one-way boat transfer from Marittima Cruise Port to central Venice locations, taking approximately 30 minutes.
- The service accommodates up to 6 people and 6 pieces of luggage, with prices starting at $39.56 per person.
- Pickup occurs at the Alilaguna desk between buildings 103 and 107 at Marittima Cruise Port, and drop-off locations include Piazzale Roma, Rialto, and San Marco.
- Customers have reported mixed experiences, with common complaints about communication issues, long wait times, and organizational challenges.
- The service is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and infants aged 3 and under travel for free.
Service Overview

The Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service provides a convenient way to travel from the Marittima Cruise Port to central locations in Venice by boat.
Rated 3.4 out of 5 stars from 71 reviews, the service is available 7 days a week and can accommodate up to 6 people and 6 pieces of luggage.
Prices start at $39.56 per person, varying by group size. The one-way boat transfer takes approximately 30 minutes, with drop-off points including San Marco, Rialto, and Piazzale Roma.
Passengers may need to wait up to 30 minutes before boarding the water taxi, and confirmation of pickup time and location is required 24-48 hours prior to arrival.
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Transfer Details

One-way shared boat transfers take passengers from the Marittima Cruise Port to drop-off points in central Venice, including San Marco, Rialto, and Piazzale Roma.
The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Travelers should be aware that excess luggage charges may apply for oversized items like surfboards or golf clubs.
Infants aged 3 and under can travel for free but must sit on a parent’s lap, as no child seats are provided.
Passengers may have to wait up to 30 minutes before boarding the water taxi.
Pickup and Drop-off Procedures
Where do we pick up the shared transfer service at the Marittima Cruise Port?
We’ll meet the staff at the Alilaguna desk located between buildings 103 and 107.
Once there, we’ll wait up to 30 minutes before boarding the water taxi.
The drop-off locations include Piazzale Roma, Carlton, Rialto, and San Marco, as well as several hotels.
To ensure a smooth pickup, we’ll need to confirm the exact time and location 24-48 hours prior to our arrival.
If there are any weather-related diversions, the service may take us to Piazzale Roma by vehicle instead.
Customer Feedback
Although the overall rating for the Venice Shared Arrival Transfer is 3.4 out of 5, customer reviews paint a mixed picture.
We found issues with communication, long wait times, and organizational challenges. However, passengers noted the scenic boat ride and helpful staff.
Complaints include lack of transportation, poor instructions for voucher redemption, and delays in service.
If traveling in larger groups, reviewers recommend private transfers for better efficiency.
Pricing and Availability
The Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service is available 7 days a week, accommodating up to 6 people and 6 pieces of luggage.
Prices start from $39.56 per person, with variation based on group size. This one-way shared boat transfer from the Marittima Cruise Port to central Venice locations like San Marco, Rialto, and Piazzale Roma takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Excess luggage may incur additional charges. Infants 3 and under ride free, sitting on laps.
Confirmation of pickup time and location is required 24-48 hours prior to arrival. Service may be diverted to Piazzale Roma by vehicle in bad weather.
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Accessibility and Special Considerations

Is the Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, no, this service isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, it’s stroller accessible.
Plus, there are a few other important accessibility considerations to keep in mind:
- Infants aged 3 and under travel free but must sit on laps, as no child seats are provided.
- Excess luggage charges may apply for oversized items like surfboards or golf clubs.
- In case of bad weather, the service may be diverted to Piazzale Roma by vehicle.
- A €5 access fee may apply for travelers staying outside Venice on certain dates.
Weather Contingency Plan
If the weather conditions are unfavorable, the Venice Shared Arrival Transfer service may be diverted to Piazzale Roma by vehicle.
This contingency plan ensures that you can still make it to central Venice, even if the boat ride isn’t possible due to inclement weather.
While the travel time may be a bit longer, you’ll avoid the hassle of dealing with the unpredictable Venetian waterways.
Just be aware that an additional €5 access fee may apply for this alternative transportation option on certain dates.
Our goal is to get you to your destination safely and efficiently, no matter the weather.
Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility in case your plans change or unforeseen circumstances arise.
When cancelling, keep these tips in mind:
- Cancel early to avoid any last-minute charges or penalties.
- Refer to your booking confirmation for the specific cancellation policy details.
- Have your booking reference number handy when requesting a cancellation.
- Confirm cancellation with the provider to ensure it has been processed.
Cancelling promptly gives us the best chance of securing a full refund.
Let’s know if you have any other questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Direct Transfer Option From the Cruise Port?
No, there is not a direct transfer option from the cruise port. The service we reviewed is a shared boat transfer that takes you to various drop-off points in central Venice, rather than a direct transfer.
Can I Customize the Drop-Off Location Within Central Venice?
Yes, we can customize the drop-off location within central Venice. The shared boat transfer offers several drop-off points, including Piazzale Roma, Rialto, and San Marco. This allows you to get closer to your final destination in the city.
Are There Any Discounts or Bundle Packages Available?
We didn’t see any discounts or bundle packages advertised, but it’s worth checking with the provider directly. They may offer special deals or group rates that could save you money on your shared boat transfer to central Venice.
Can I Bring Oversized Luggage Items Like Skis or Bicycles?
We understand you may have oversized luggage items like skis or bicycles. However, the service does charge extra fees for excess or oversized luggage. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand to avoid any unexpected costs.
Is There a Way to Contact the Provider During the Transfer?
We recommend contacting the provider directly if any issues arise during the transfer. Their contact information should be provided when you receive your booking confirmation. Let us know if you have any other questions!
The Sum Up
The Venice Shared Arrival Transfer offers a convenient and scenic way to get from the Marittima Cruise Port to central Venice. While the service can be subject to wait times and organizational challenges, it provides a unique boat ride experience and access to popular drop-off points. With advance confirmation required and infants traveling free, this transfer service is a practical option for those arriving in Venice by cruise ship.
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