Cruises on the River Thames and Venice Lagoon

Go Barging's Cruises on the River Thames and Venice Lagoon - Perfect for Seeing the World Famous Regattas!

WINDSOR, ENGLAND, April 16, 2009 - Go Barging - Europe's largest luxury barge cruising company, is once again this year offering specific cruise itineraries aboard two hotel barges - Magna Carta and La Dolce Vita  - to coincide with three world famous rowing events - the Henley Royal Regatta on the River Thames (1-5 July) and the Vogalonga Regatta (31 May) & Regatta Storica (6 Sep) in Venice.

On the River Thames, the Henley Royal Regatta was first held in 1839 and occupies a unique place in the world of rowing. Over the 5 days inJuly, many crews will compete over the 1 mile 550 yard course in a total of 19 events. As in previous years, there will be many top class entries from the UK and overseas competing for an array of magnificent trophies.
 
The special 6 night/7 day cruise on the River Thames aboard the elegant Magna Carta starts from Windsor and ends upstream at Henley, taking in some of England's most beautiful riverside scenery. During the week, passengers will have the opportunity to visit some of England's most magnificent historical landmarks, including Eton College, Cliveden, Mapledurham House, the Colleges of Oxford.

Magna Carta will also cruise along the 'Regatta Mile' into Henley-on-Thames, where passengers will be given a tour of this wonderful old town, including the award winning River and Rowing Museum. There will also be the opportunity to watch the Regatta if preferred.

Prices for a 6 night/7 day, all inclusive cruise aboard Magna Carta start at US$3,500 per person, based on an 8 passenger charter, including 

accommodation aboard in air-conditioned, ensuite cabins, gourmet meals, fine wines, an open bar and all excursions.  

In Venice, the Vogalonga Regatta follows ancient  traditions and was instigated by a group of Venetians with a passionate interest in rowing in the Venetian Lagoon. The racecourse has remained virtually unchanged over the years and covers about 30 kilometres by way of canals through the most beloved and picturesque parts of the Lagoon of Venice.

Five hundred boats with nearly 1,500 participants meet on the race day and after singing hymns to St Mark and Venice, the event begins.  At the finishing line each participant receives a commemorative medal and a certificate - souvenirs of a memorable day.