We Rent Gondolas

We Rent Gondolas: Bring the Romance of Venice to Your Event

Transform Your Event with a Touch of Venice

“Gondola! Gondola! Gondola for rent!”

There’s nothing quite like the timeless charm of a Venetian gondola to make an event unforgettable. In addition to our gondola rides in Coronado, we also offer gondola prop rental services that bring the magic and romance of Venice straight to your venue. Whether you’re planning an elegant wedding, a glamorous Venetian masquerade, or filming a romantic Italian scene, our handcrafted gondolas deliver beauty, authenticity, and storytelling power unlike anything else.

Perfect for Any Italian-Themed Celebration

A Venetian gondola rental for event use instantly elevates any Italian-inspired occasion. Imagine your guests stepping into a world of romance, complete with soft lighting, masks, music, and the unmistakable silhouette of a gondola. Our gondolas are perfect for:

• Italian-themed parties and festivals
• Masquerade balls and elegant receptions
• Romantic galas or corporate events
• TV, film, or photo productions

Endless Inspiration for Your Event

A gondola isn’t just a boat, a life size gondola prop for hire transforms any space into something cinematic, elegant, and deeply memorable. Here are a few creative ways to use one:

1. Venetian-Inspired Events

Turn your next corporate gala or brand activation into a scene from Venice. A gondola adds sophistication and surprise, perfect for themed networking mixers or grand product launches.

2. Romantic Centerpiece for Weddings

Few backdrops are as romantic as a gondola. Use one as a photo booth, a Prosecco bar, or a statement piece for your reception.

3. Perfect Prop for Film and Photoshoots

Directors, stylists, and photographers love the detail and authenticity of a gondola for film/photoshoot projects. Whether used for a fashion editorial, commercial, or music video, a gondola brings an instantly recognizable Venetian flair that adds production value and visual drama.

4. Themed Parties and Festivals

Planning a Venetian masquerade, or Italian wine festival? A gondola instantly sets the scene. Decorate it with string lights and velvet cushions, and transport your guests to St. Mark’s Square without the jet lag.

5. Floating Elegance for Outdoor Spaces

If your venue includes a lake, pond, or large pool, imagine your guests gently drifting across the water on a traditional gondola; the ultimate romantic touch. 

About the Gondola

Every gondola we rent is handcrafted in traditional Venetian style — sleek, elegant, and built for visual impact. Perfect for both decorative and interactive use, our gondolas are easy to transport and set up.

Specs:

• Flat bottom
• Row boat
• 30’ long
• 5’ wide
• 1200 lbs
• Transported on a boat trailer

How We Get It To You

The gondola will travel by boat trailer. It can be launched into any bay, lake, pond, pool etc. by trailer it there is a launch ramp or gentle slope. The Gondola can also be moved from the trailer to a stage or the ground by hand, with a forklift, or a crane.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I rent a gondola to use as a prop for a photoshoot or movie set?

Yes, you can rent a professional Venetian gondola as a visual prop for photography, film productions, or commercial shoots in San Diego. At The Gondola Company, we provide authentic, handcrafted boats that serve as an iconic “Old World” backdrop. Whether you need the boat stationary at our docks for a fashion shoot or are looking to film a romantic scene on the water, our fleet is available for private rental to meet your production needs.

2. Do you offer off-site gondola rentals for events like weddings or corporate galas?

Yes, off-site prop rentals are available for events where a gondola is needed as a stationary centerpiece or decor. We can coordinate the transport of a gondola to your venue, such as a hotel ballroom, estate garden, or private pool, to create a stunning Italian themed atmosphere. Because these rentals involve specialized logistics and trailer transport, we recommend contacting us at least 30 days in advance to discuss venue access and delivery fees.

3. What are the dimensions and weight of a gondola for event planning?

An authentic Venetian gondola is approximately 36 feet long and 5 feet wide, weighing roughly 1,500 pounds. When planning your event layout, ensure your venue has a clear path for a truck and trailer and sufficient clearance for the boat’s high, curved “ferro” (the metal bow piece). These dimensions are critical for indoor events to ensure the boat can navigate through loading docks and onto event floors safely.

4. How much does it cost to rent a gondola as a stationary event prop?

Stationary gondola prop rentals typically start at a daily rate plus a delivery and setup fee based on the location’s distance from Coronado. While a 50-minute cruise starts at $139, a full-day prop rental for an event is priced differently to account for transport, insurance, and the time the boat is out of the water. For an accurate quote tailored to your event’s timeline and location, please reach out to our team for a custom proposal.

5. Can a gondola be placed in a swimming pool for a private party?

Yes, a gondola can be placed in a private swimming pool to serve as a high-end decorative element or a unique “floating bar” for events. As long as the pool area has accessible clearance for our transport team, the boat can be safely floated to enhance a Mediterranean or Venetian-themed party. This is a popular option for luxury weddings and corporate brand launches looking for a “wow factor” that guests can photograph throughout the evening.

Price:

The cost to rent a gondola for an event is determined by many factors. 

Considerations:

The following is a partial list of things that will help determing the feasability and the cost.

• What will it be used for?
  • A decoration only; on land or in the water?
  • A photo opp that poeple will get in?
  • A gondola for short gondola rides?
• How many people will attend the event?
  • How many people will potentially get on the gondola or go for a gondola ride?
• Access?
  • Is there drive up access to the location?
  • Can the gondola travel on a dolly to the location?
  • Are there any stairs?
  • Are there any narrow pathways?
• Water Access?
  • Is there a launch ramp or a gentle slope into the water?
  • Can a truck and trailer drive on the property to the water?
  • Is there a dock at least 12’ long with cleats to tie up?
  • What is the depth of the water?
  • Are there any obstacles, submerged fountain heads, irrigation, etc.?
• Permits Required?
• Time?
  • What is the distance from San Diego?
  • When can the gondola be placed and retrieved?
  • Does the timing and distance require and overnight stay?

Price: Starting at $4500

We Bring Venice to You

Our gondola prop rental team can deliver and set up your gondola anywhere in the U.S., from lakeside estates to studio sets. Whether you want an interactive experience or a breathtaking display, we make it seamless, professional, and unforgettable.

Make a Lasting Impression

A gondola tells a story of love, craftsmanship, and tradition — and now, it can be the highlight of your event. Let The Gondola Company bring the romance of Venice to your celebration, production, or creative project.

Written by: Charity Gypster