I’ve seen them many times, with their old-world charm, making their way down Indy’s Central Canal loaded with tourists. I often use photos of them to promote the fun things people can do when visiting our city. Yet, I hadn’t ever experienced it for myself, until last night.
Old World Gondoliers quite literally bring the Venice experience to our lovely canal. The boats are the only ones of their kind operating in the United States (the Venetian in Vegas has smaller versions, but that is a story unto itself). In fact, I learned that there are only three people in the world who still make these boats and if you want one you’re waiting at least three years. In addition to those tidbits, I learned why traditional gondola’s are painted black and how they treat the oars to keep them strong, etc., etc., etc.
This brings me to what surprised me most about the ride – the gondoliers. While the boat itself is great and offers a unique way to experience the canal, the gondolier himself was what truly made the journey delightful. Not only was Goffredo (Jeff in Italian) a wealth of knowledge and a wonderful storyteller, but the dude had some pipes. When they take you under a bridge and let loose with their Italian crooning it sets quite a mood. If you want to score points with a lady friend, this will get the job done in spades. Trust me.
So, what are you waiting for? You can either book a boat for a group ride (up to 8 people, both 15 minute and 30 minute rides are available) or simply jump in with some other folks and split the tab. You can take drinks with you and they’re open until as late as 1 a.m. Divertiti!
