‘O sole mio’ Coronado Gondolier Makes Special Events More Memorable

If you’re looking to propose, or celebrate an anniversary or other milestone consider something different.

In the Coronado Cays lies a uniquely Venetian experience, and no passport is required. For over 25 years, The Gondola Co. has offered the serene, romantic, and charming excursion of cruising through the picturesque, home-lined canals, and it all began with a vision from Sean Jamieson. ​​

Jamieson, owner of The Gondola Company, found himself on the water long before his gondolier days. Growing up in Long Beach he was either surfing on the Pacific Coast, sailing, paddling or rowing.

“It’s hard not to smile on a boat,” Jamieson said. “Whether you are in it or on it, water has a general calming effect.”

Jamieson was introduced to gondolas through word of his friends that rowed lifeguard dories and Venetian boats. He was invited to join them on a trip to Venice, Italy for the Venetian Regatta known as the “Vogalonga,” a rowing boat course and celebration that spans across 30km of Italy.

After a dozen trips filled with rowing, learning about the culture, eating pasta, and drinking wine, Jamieson was struck by the beauty of the gondolas and the comradery of the gondolier community. With a passion to share this long-standing craft with others, he learned to build replica gondolas alongside a wooden boat builder in Seal Beach, eventually building his own.

After building his first gondola, Jamieson, or “Saverio” when he’s wearing stripes, found the community of canals in the Coronado Cays to be the perfect place to set up shop. In 1999, The Gondola Co. opened its doors for the first time at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Today, the company is known for being the “Most Romantic Boat Ride in San Diego” and has brought happiness and relaxation to thousands of guests as they soak up the scenic views of the city and the bay.

While the boat ride itself is exquisite and memorable, Jamieson’s goals of the company remain humble: to bring the peace and joy of his Venetian boating days in Italy to every patron.

The company offers various options including the Pasaporto Cruise, Sunset Cruise, Proposal Cruise, Caorlina Cruise, and Fleet Cruises for those searching for the unique.