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This was my first time ever going on a gondola and I took my family as well. The staff were so patient and kind as they assisted my grandmother, who was having a hard time getting into the gondola. They tried different ways to assist her and she finally got in. In my party, there was 5 of us, who were all curvy and we all got in and had a fun time. Shawn, our gondolier and owner, played music, gave us information, and even sung songs. I would definitely be back to experience it again and try their other cruises as well. It was such a peaceful and beautiful moment. I believe everyone should try it at least once. Big thanks to Shawn and Nolan.
After doing some wine tasting at Housley Napa Valley (please reference my review if interested), our party made the 10 minute walk to the Napa Valley Gondola dock. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a friendly gentleman named Angelino. Angelino graciously helped everyone into the gondola and within five minutes we were heading out for a 45 minute ride along the Napa River (I would be lying if I said that I knew a river even existed in Napa)! Since we had a 5:30pm appointment, we were really excited to see the sunset as we cruised. During the ride Angelino used his beautiful voice to serenade us with his favorite romantic Italian rnb ballads. When he wasn't singing or taking a break to allow for us to absorb the beautiful backdrop of the nearby business's lighting casting onto the water, he provided us with Napa city fun facts. Unfortunately, we forgot to bring a bottle of wine to enjoy amongst our group...it would have definitely complimented the already relaxing vibe. However, it worked out for the best since not everyone on the gondola knew how to swim. I would highly recommend Napa Valley Gondola and suggest that you book your appointment to coincide with the sunsetting!
Loved the Gondola!! Everyone will experience this ride, regardless of which package you choose... Every activity is UP...UP in the mountain... The scenery is Amazing, so get ready to take pictures...
Life long Californian here who has been to Napa hundreds (literally don't start with me!) of times. My husband and I venture up from San Diego every year to celebrate our anniversary. I've never had a nice Gondola ride before and the week we were up on November 4-12 was perfect weather. The river is just beautiful at this time of year and we learned that the salmon were jumping and heading out on their run to start spawning. Our gondolier was very nice and helped us both get into the boat. My husband and I are great swimmers and sailors so I wasn't worried about drowning, I just didn't feel like falling into the "drink" since I just didn't want to get my freshly washed hair wet, you feel me? As I mentioned above this time of the year is the best for seeing wildlife such as seals, and salmon jumping, we saw a few of them and otters. Beautiful birds nesting under the Third Street bridge so we got a great view of those too. Gondolier serenaded us as we floated peacefully up the Napa River. We didn't bring any wine or snacks but you can do that if you wish to do so. I also want to share that in November before they close for the Winter, they run specials. I paid 128. 00 for the two of us but we could have had two more passengers. I highly recommend this service, it was so beautiful and I took a lot of pictures. I am just posting one, it's a pic of us getting ready to go under Soscol I believe. Enjoy!
While researching unique things to do in Napa Valley, the Napa Valley Gondolas came up. I have been on the gondolas in the Venetian in Las Vegas but that doesn't count because it's motorized and it's not an authentic gondola. Well, these ones are! They are purchased from Italy so it's as authentic as it gets outside of Venice. Booking was easy online. I booked for 2 people in the morning at 10am. Early mornings are great because you get the whole Napa River to yourself! You get to see all the birds and ducks and the quiet and peacefulness of the valley overtakes you. Our gondolier was name Sean. He gently rowed the gondola out for several miles down the river and back for us. He entertained us with a few songs and told us a bit about gondola history. Where did the history of gondolas and singing come from? It derived from an old Opera "The Gondolier". Apparently gondoliers do not sing because they are considered "manly man" and will hire singers on their gondola to sing. Do gondoliers need to take a test to become gondoliers? They need to pass an exam and be licensed. How do gondoliers learn the art? They learn through another licensed gondolier and then take the exam to be licensed. Do gondolas need as much maintenance as a normal boat? Yes, if not more especially these ones where barnacles grow on the bottom and need to be scraped, the gondola needs maintenance and paint job, etc. I find the gondola history fascinating! We had an amazing, relaxed ride and makes me more excited than ever to do the gondolas in Venice. This is the next best thing to a Venice gondola ride and would recommend it!
This was an experience for sure! Maple was our boat captain, guess that is what you would classify as a title? It was so sweet of a trip, beautiful songs under the bridges and overall relaxing. If this review was just on Maple, five stars easily! However, much to my surprise the views isn't what I expected. Much of the ride was a low of muck due to low tide. We did a morning trip and even though the weather was nice, slowly creepy heat it does bear down on you during the trip. That I did not take into consideration. There's no food or drinks offered so make sure to pack your own. Across the way from the dock is a parking garage, so parking is a breeze but you need to pay. There are small general stores across the way from the parking garage. We stopped into the sweets shop and grabbed some snacks before heading out. The view and heat aside, this was a really wonderful and unique way to spend out day in Napa.
What an incredible experience! Angelino made the entire experience so amazing. He was so friendly and knowledgeable and sang beautifully! We went around sunset and it was so pretty. Great location by restaurants and shopping.
I loved this gondola ride! It was the highlight of our trip to Napa ! Not to mention the romantic view of the lights once the sun set . It was such a great experience and our gondolier (Haven) was simply the best ! He made the experience that much more special with his beautiful songs and great conversations. My boyfriend and I had an unforgettable anniversary
I was researching outdoor activities to do for a small Napa day trip in planning a small mini-celebration prior to my bestie's wedding. Sort of an alternative Bridal shower/bachelorette party since choices and capabilities to do anything are limited right now. I found Napa Valley Gondola in my search. I've visited Napa a few times but I had no idea there was a river in Napa. Well I booked in advanced and made reservations online. I booked for an afternoon ride, they have different level packages , but I reserved for a 45- minute boat ride and it was just fine / perfect. It was the first stop of our Napa day trip after we had breakfast at home. Our host/gondalier was very chill. We were running just a tad late and it was no issue. We docked off a pier somewhere in downtown . It was a very memorable experience as this day was literally the morning of all those thunderstorms and the whole time I was praying these lightning bolts better stop my noon. Which they did! Lol In spite of the unusual weather I thought it made it extra fun and added a little bit of interest to our small boat adventure. It was super humid and rainy and I brought my own umbrellas but they also provided umbrellas as well. Luckily the rain only lasted about 5 minutes for the beginning of our ride. The rose I ordered with our boat ride and was really nicely cold and refreshing and a nice touch to this special ride. I would definitely ride again with Napa Valley Gondola and will be bringing more of my family and friends! I loved our trip and my family and the bride loved it also! Thank you!
Honestly, make the Napa Valley Gondola part of your Napa plans! My girlfriends and I planned a local weekend getaway in July (2021) and in trying to put an itinerary together, this Gondola cruise came up. Considering fancy activities we could do outdoors, this was perfect. For an hour you're taken around the Napa river and serenaded by your gondolier. We had Maple! So personable and wonderful singing voice. (Thank you for making our first time memorable). I chose the 10am reservation to avoid the afternoon sun. Despite this, it still was pretty hot. Luckily, we were provided with cute parasols! I also pre-purchased a bottle a wine for our group and it was honestly the best choice. Due to COVID, you're encouraged to bring your own glasses. The Napa River isn't super beautiful or anything, but the experience was 5 stars.
Booked a last minute gondola boat ride today. Went to their website and booked a boat ride for 4, and we added a bottle of wine, brought our own cups. Met Haven at the dock he was professional, knowledgeable and we had a great time. We were able to add a second bottle which was perfect. The ride was so nice, sipping wine and great conversation! I would def recommend it. Thanks for a fun time.
9 days ago
What a wonderful and memorable experience celebrating birthdays with dear friends aboard the Napa Valley Gondola! Cruising along the peaceful Napa River in an authentic, handcrafted Venetian gondola was such a unique and delightful way to spend time together. Our gondolier Sean, who also happens to be the owner, made the experience even more special by serenading us in Italian! It was such a charming touch that made us feel as though we had been transported to Venice. Beautiful scenery, wonderful friendships, birthday celebrations, and a little Italian romance made for an unforgettable outing! If you're visiting Napa, I highly recommend this experience. It's a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy something different. A truly memorable experience that we will treasure! read more
4 months ago
This was such a romantic experience! A friend and I elected the gondola experience as part of our leisurely trip in Napa. The guide was extremely informative and knowledgeable. Honestly, I was so relaxed that I dosed off. His singing while paddling on the river was all I needed to relax and enjoy the sun and wind. I highly recommend! read more
1 year ago
This was my first time ever going on a gondola and I took my family as well. The staff were so patient and kind as they assisted my grandmother, who was having a hard time getting into the gondola. They tried different ways to assist her and she finally got in. In my party, there was 5 of us, who were all curvy and we all got in and had a fun time. Shawn, our gondolier and owner, played music, gave us information, and even sung songs. I would definitely be back to experience it again and try their other cruises as well. It was such a peaceful and beautiful moment. I believe everyone should try it at least once. Big thanks to Shawn and Nolan. read more
After doing some wine tasting at Housley Napa Valley (please reference my review if interested), our party made the 10 minute walk to the Napa Valley Gondola dock. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a friendly gentleman named Angelino. Angelino graciously helped everyone into the gondola and within five minutes we were heading out for a 45 minute ride along the Napa River (I would be lying if I said that I knew a river even existed in Napa)! Since we had a 5:30pm appointment, we were really excited to see the sunset as we cruised. During the ride Angelino used his beautiful voice to serenade us with his favorite romantic Italian rnb ballads. When he wasn't singing or taking a break to allow for us to absorb the beautiful backdrop of the nearby business's lighting casting onto the water, he provided us with Napa city fun facts. Unfortunately, we forgot to bring a bottle of wine to enjoy amongst our group...it would have definitely complimented the already relaxing vibe. However, it worked out for the best since not everyone on the gondola knew how to swim. I would highly recommend Napa Valley Gondola and suggest that you book your appointment to coincide with the sunsetting! read more
6 months ago
The owner gave us an awesome ride down the Napa river.... It was a great experience and would recommend it to anybody to do at least once. Looking forward to renting canoes from him to enjoy during the summer. read more
7 months ago
1 year ago
Loved the Gondola!! Everyone will experience this ride, regardless of which package you choose... Every activity is UP...UP in the mountain... The scenery is Amazing, so get ready to take pictures... read more
3 years ago
Life long Californian here who has been to Napa hundreds (literally don't start with me!) of times. My husband and I venture up from San Diego every year to celebrate our anniversary. I've never had a nice Gondola ride before and the week we were up on November 4-12 was perfect weather. The river is just beautiful at this time of year and we learned that the salmon were jumping and heading out on their run to start spawning. Our gondolier was very nice and helped us both get into the boat. My husband and I are great swimmers and sailors so I wasn't worried about drowning, I just didn't feel like falling into the "drink" since I just didn't want to get my freshly washed hair wet, you feel me? As I mentioned above this time of the year is the best for seeing wildlife such as seals, and salmon jumping, we saw a few of them and otters. Beautiful birds nesting under the Third Street bridge so we got a great view of those too. Gondolier serenaded us as we floated peacefully up the Napa River. We didn't bring any wine or snacks but you can do that if you wish to do so. I also want to share that in November before they close for the Winter, they run specials. I paid 128. 00 for the two of us but we could have had two more passengers. I highly recommend this service, it was so beautiful and I took a lot of pictures. I am just posting one, it's a pic of us getting ready to go under Soscol I believe. Enjoy! read more
While researching unique things to do in Napa Valley, the Napa Valley Gondolas came up. I have been on the gondolas in the Venetian in Las Vegas but that doesn't count because it's motorized and it's not an authentic gondola. Well, these ones are! They are purchased from Italy so it's as authentic as it gets outside of Venice. Booking was easy online. I booked for 2 people in the morning at 10am. Early mornings are great because you get the whole Napa River to yourself! You get to see all the birds and ducks and the quiet and peacefulness of the valley overtakes you. Our gondolier was name Sean. He gently rowed the gondola out for several miles down the river and back for us. He entertained us with a few songs and told us a bit about gondola history. Where did the history of gondolas and singing come from? It derived from an old Opera "The Gondolier". Apparently gondoliers do not sing because they are considered "manly man" and will hire singers on their gondola to sing. Do gondoliers need to take a test to become gondoliers? They need to pass an exam and be licensed. How do gondoliers learn the art? They learn through another licensed gondolier and then take the exam to be licensed. Do gondolas need as much maintenance as a normal boat? Yes, if not more especially these ones where barnacles grow on the bottom and need to be scraped, the gondola needs maintenance and paint job, etc. I find the gondola history fascinating! We had an amazing, relaxed ride and makes me more excited than ever to do the gondolas in Venice. This is the next best thing to a Venice gondola ride and would recommend it! read more
1 year ago
100 % recommend nice soft ride . With songs under the bridge , they offer wine for the ride also read more
4 years ago
This was an experience for sure! Maple was our boat captain, guess that is what you would classify as a title? It was so sweet of a trip, beautiful songs under the bridges and overall relaxing. If this review was just on Maple, five stars easily! However, much to my surprise the views isn't what I expected. Much of the ride was a low of muck due to low tide. We did a morning trip and even though the weather was nice, slowly creepy heat it does bear down on you during the trip. That I did not take into consideration. There's no food or drinks offered so make sure to pack your own. Across the way from the dock is a parking garage, so parking is a breeze but you need to pay. There are small general stores across the way from the parking garage. We stopped into the sweets shop and grabbed some snacks before heading out. The view and heat aside, this was a really wonderful and unique way to spend out day in Napa. read more
2 years ago
What an incredible experience! Angelino made the entire experience so amazing. He was so friendly and knowledgeable and sang beautifully! We went around sunset and it was so pretty. Great location by restaurants and shopping. read more
4 years ago
I loved this gondola ride! It was the highlight of our trip to Napa ! Not to mention the romantic view of the lights once the sun set . It was such a great experience and our gondolier (Haven) was simply the best ! He made the experience that much more special with his beautiful songs and great conversations. My boyfriend and I had an unforgettable anniversary read more
6 years ago
I was researching outdoor activities to do for a small Napa day trip in planning a small mini-celebration prior to my bestie's wedding. Sort of an alternative Bridal shower/bachelorette party since choices and capabilities to do anything are limited right now. I found Napa Valley Gondola in my search. I've visited Napa a few times but I had no idea there was a river in Napa. Well I booked in advanced and made reservations online. I booked for an afternoon ride, they have different level packages , but I reserved for a 45- minute boat ride and it was just fine / perfect. It was the first stop of our Napa day trip after we had breakfast at home. Our host/gondalier was very chill. We were running just a tad late and it was no issue. We docked off a pier somewhere in downtown . It was a very memorable experience as this day was literally the morning of all those thunderstorms and the whole time I was praying these lightning bolts better stop my noon. Which they did! Lol In spite of the unusual weather I thought it made it extra fun and added a little bit of interest to our small boat adventure. It was super humid and rainy and I brought my own umbrellas but they also provided umbrellas as well. Luckily the rain only lasted about 5 minutes for the beginning of our ride. The rose I ordered with our boat ride and was really nicely cold and refreshing and a nice touch to this special ride. I would definitely ride again with Napa Valley Gondola and will be bringing more of my family and friends! I loved our trip and my family and the bride loved it also! Thank you! read more
5 years ago
Honestly, make the Napa Valley Gondola part of your Napa plans! My girlfriends and I planned a local weekend getaway in July (2021) and in trying to put an itinerary together, this Gondola cruise came up. Considering fancy activities we could do outdoors, this was perfect. For an hour you're taken around the Napa river and serenaded by your gondolier. We had Maple! So personable and wonderful singing voice. (Thank you for making our first time memorable). I chose the 10am reservation to avoid the afternoon sun. Despite this, it still was pretty hot. Luckily, we were provided with cute parasols! I also pre-purchased a bottle a wine for our group and it was honestly the best choice. Due to COVID, you're encouraged to bring your own glasses. The Napa River isn't super beautiful or anything, but the experience was 5 stars. read more
3 years ago
Booked a last minute gondola boat ride today. Went to their website and booked a boat ride for 4, and we added a bottle of wine, brought our own cups. Met Haven at the dock he was professional, knowledgeable and we had a great time. We were able to add a second bottle which was perfect. The ride was so nice, sipping wine and great conversation! I would def recommend it. Thanks for a fun time. read more
6 years ago
Review #145 - 2020 I never knew that there was a gondola ride on the Napa Riverfront so it never occurred to me to actually go on one. I remember seeing an ad on Facebook so I decided to check it out & ended up scheduling a ride on Friday, August 7th, at 7 PM. We showed up about half an hour early so we decided to walk around the riverfront & take a few pictures since my nieces could use some new pictures for their Instagram page. Sean saw us wandering around the dock & came to greet us, and we got ready to start our adventure. He gave both my 4-year old daughter and my 11-year old niece a life vest. We weren't required to keep our masks on for the duration of the ride, which was nice. I actually hate wearing masks as they are super uncomfortable and itchy after about five minutes. The ride was super fun & relaxing, even though I was kind of scared at first because the gondola kind of rocked a lot in the beginning, since our weights weren't balanced out correctly until we were all getting situated. The girls had an awesome time! Sean kept us entertained & helped us feel super comfortable during the entire 45-minute ride. The views from the river is pretty different compared to being on land. I can't wait to come back during Christmastime, as I'm sure it'll be beautifully decorated! read more
5 years ago
3 years ago
Took this ride with Sean on his gondola. It was very enjoyable ! Sean provided a bit of Napa history, information about his boat and an a leisurely trip on the river. He even sang a few Italian songs. Was a very relaxing way to spent an afternoon. Will love to go again. read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
5 years ago
Very relaxing and great experience. Our gondolier was Haven and he was great, informative, and very funny. Great for birthdays. Definitely recommend. read more
3 years ago
Xavier was awesome! He was fun loving and very informative. We had a great time! We felt that the gondola ride down the Napa River was one of the highlights of our trip! Definitely want to take our family and friends next time. Xavier even serenaded us! read more
6 years ago
Didn't realized this existed in Napa River. Glad I discovered it! It is located on Main Street and Third Street, just walk toward the river and you will see Sean with his Gondola on the river waiting for the guest. Sean, I believed the owner of this Gondola and he was great at what he is doing. You have to reserved online and Sean is very accommodating with his services if you want to switched the date. It is about $95 for 40 minutes or $130 for one hour. The Gondola can fit up to 6 people. We arrived on times and he took us around 50 minutes around the river with his background life and sang some songs for us. On the way you will see some homeless people living under the bridge, People fishing on the river. There are salmon and sea bass are two main fishes found in the river. Overall, beside wine tasting you can enjoy in Napa, bring up to 6 guests for this gondola experience and they will loves it. We will definitely be back! read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
4 years ago
What an amazing tour guide Haven was.He was very knowledgeable about the boat which was beautiful and well maintained. He said he can't sing that well but actually sung us one song and we were quite impressed. Not to mention his quick camera skills to capture our 20 year anniversary suprise to my wife read more
7 years ago
5 years ago
Was amazing and I highly recommend. Was late and sun going down but views were amazing and our gondolier sang in multiple languages and sounded amazing. Wine was ok but ride was great. Plz remember to take cash to tip your gondolier. read more
6 years ago
4 years ago
Business owner information
Sean O.
We are sorry about your abrupt tour cancellation. The gondolier that…
7 years ago
6 years ago
We had SUCH a great time. Started my 50th birthday off with a gondola ride on the river with Sean. I have wanted to do this for a while, and was so excited to finally do it. And it did not disappoint!! The area is beautiful. I have lived in the east bay my entire life. And we are in Napa at least once a month, however I had no idea this whole area of houses and wildlife were all right there on the water in the middle of Napa. I am already planning ahead to give a few Gondola ride gift certificates for Christmas, so my friends can experience this. Sean really was the icing on the cake as our guide. He's funny, plays great tunes (thanks for the Elvis and Sinatra) and has cool stories. This is so much fun if you are a local or a tourist. I would totally grab a few friends and do this again. It's only 5 minutes from downtown, so we did our tour, then had a great lunch. Thanks Sean for making my 50th memorable. read more
6 years ago
6 years ago
5 years ago
Business owner information
Sean O.
We are so sorry to see our first 1 star review.…
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More info about Napa Valley Gondola
600 Main St
Napa, CA 94559
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(707) 373-2100
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https://napavalleygondola.com
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4 years ago
