Sunday, June 2, 2024 The Venice Boat Show, the unveiling of the 11th Venice Hospitality Challenge took place, initiated by Mirko Sguario, the head of Venice Yacht Club and the event’s driving force. Dubbed the city’s Grand Prix, this regatta is unique as it navigates entirely through Venice’s inner waterways. It blends high-class sailing with top-tier local hotels, enhancing its stature and appeal annually, while boosting local tourism significantly.

The 2024 Challenge is set to commence with a dramatic start on October 19 at 1:00 PM, featuring water sprays from tugboats at Punta della Dogana, showcasing large yachts performing intricate maneuvers in the San Marco basin. Spectators can enjoy the regatta and view the moored boats on a specially constructed floating pier in the Giudecca Canal, courtesy of partnerships with the VAC Foundation and the Port Authorities. This pier, named after builder Renzo Rossi, stretches over 75 meters and serves as the event’s hub.

This prestigious event annually gathers a fleet of large yachts and prominent Venetian hotels to create memorable sailing moments. Participants for this edition include illustrious venues such as Ca’ di Dio VRetreats, Hotel Danieli, and The Gritti Palace, among others. Teams led by famed skippers will vie for the prized Doge’s hat, crafted by a renowned Murano glassmaker.

The event also champions health and environmental causes, supporting cancer prevention with a maxi yacht racing for LILT and promoting .