- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Departing the pier by motor launch, we travel along the Giudecca Canal and the lagoon to reach Murano, renowned since 1291 for its glass manufacture. The island became a sanctuary for glassmakers after furnaces were banned from Venice as a fire precaution. Soon after they arrived, exports began, and the island became world renowned, initially for mirrors and glass beads. Today glassmaking is still the island’s main industry. During our visit to Murano and a leading glass factory here, we will witness the masters of this delicate craft at work.

Next we proceed to Burano, a tiny island dotted with brightly-painted houses. The island is famous for its traditional lace-making, an art still practised today by many of the local women.

Following our visit here, we re-board our motor launch for the return journey to our ship.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, some of which will be over uneven ground, and there are a few steps to negotiate. After disembarking our ship, there may be quite a walk to reach our private motor launches; there are also steps to embark and disembark the launches. Unfortunately this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. For reference, this tour may operate in reverse order. There may be some free time at each of the islands, where walking is at the discretion of the individual.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2011 CANARIES & MED SEASON.