Vogalonga

They came up with an idea of non-competitive "race" in which any kind of rowing boat could participate, in the spirit of historical festivities.

The first Vogalonga began the next year with the message to protest against the growing use of powerboats in Venice and the swell damage they do to the historic city.

They may also receive a prize, chosen randomly, which are often trophy cups and plaques, decorative oars and other mementos local associations, newspapers and the organizing committee have donated.

Some locals have founded new rowing clubs and build their own boats based on real, historical watercraft.

The 2009 Vogalonga event became a small scale disaster, with strong winds overturning several rowboats and 50 people had to be pulled from the water, although police and fire service motorboats were quick on the scene and nobody was seriously injured.