Venice's Vaporetto is the city's lifeblood, transporting residents and tourists along its winding canals. Venice's sole authorized public transport company, ACTV, operates the vaporetto network that reaches to deliver wide coverage of historic center, suburban isles, and Venetian Lagoon. 

Of all the many lines, Line 17 is one of the few that were specifically designed to transport cars and people over the lagoon.

Unlike the busier vaporetto routes that run along the Grand Canal, Line 17 is an efficient, direct connection from Tronchetto Island—a hub for transfers and parking—through to Lido San Nicolò, access point to Lido di Venezia. 

Designed to carry vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, as well as tourists, Line 17 is an important part of Venice's transport network.

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Vaporetto Line 17 Timetable


Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Departures from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM daily.

Tronchetto                                         5:00                                         5:50                                         6:40                                         7:30
Lido S.Nicolò                                         5:35                                         6:25                                         7:15                                         8:05

 

Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Boats operate every day between 8:20 AM and 10:50 AM.

Tronchetto                                         8:20                                         9:10                                         10:00                                         10:50
Lido S.Nicolò                                         8:55                                         9:45                                         10:35                                         11:25

 

Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Daily service runs from 11:40 AM to 2:10 PM.

Tronchetto                                         11:40                                         12:30                                         13:20                                         14:10
Lido S.Nicolò                                         12:15                                         13:05                                         13:55                                         14:45

 

Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Ferries operate daily from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

Tronchetto                                         15:00                                         15:50                                         16:40                                         17:30
Lido S.Nicolò                                         15:35                                         16:25                                         17:15                                         18:05

 

Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Service is available every day from 6:20 PM to 8:50 PM.

Tronchetto                                         18:20                                         19:10                                         20:00                                         20:50
Lido S.Nicolò                                         18:55                                         19:45                                         20:35                                         21:25

 

Tronchetto to Lido (San Nicolò)
Daily departures from 9:40 PM to 11:20 PM.
The 12:20 AM departure does not operate on the nights between Friday and Saturday, Saturday and Sunday, or from a public holiday eve to the holiday itself.
However, the 12:50 AM departure only runs on those specific nights—Friday to Saturday, Saturday to Sunday, and from the eve of a public holiday to the holiday.

Tronchetto                     21:40                     22:30                     23:20                     0:20                     0:50
Lido S.Nicolò                     22:15                     23:05                     23:55                     0:55                     1:25

 

Lido (San Nicolò) to Tronchetto
Daily service operates from 8:20 AM to 10:50 AM.

Lido S.Nicolò                                         8:20                                         9:10                                         10:00                                         10:50
Tronchetto                                         8:55                                         9:45                                         10:35                                         11:25

 

Lido (San Nicolò) to Tronchetto
Boats run daily between 11:40 AM and 2:10 PM.

Lido S.Nicolò                                         11:40                                         12:30                                         13:20                                         14:10
Tronchetto                                         12:15                                         13:05                                         13:55                                         14:45

 

Lido (San Nicolò) to Tronchetto
Daily departures take place from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

Lido S.Nicolò                                         15:00                                         15:50                                         16:40                                         17:30
Tronchetto                                         15:35                                         16:25                                         17:15                                         18:05

 

Lido (San Nicolò) to Tronchetto
Service runs every day from 6:20 PM to 8:50 PM.

Lido S.Nicolò                                         18:20                                         19:10                                         20:00                                         20:50
Tronchetto                                         18:55                                         19:45                                         20:35                                         21:25

 

Lido (San Nicolò) to Tronchetto
Daily ferry service operates from 9:40 PM until 12:50 AM.

Lido S.Nicolò                                         21:40                                         22:30                                         23:20                                         0:50
Tronchetto                                         22:15                                         23:05                                         23:55                                         1:25

 

Summary of Vaporetto Line 17

Type of Route: Car and passenger ferry

Operator: ACTV (Azienda del Consorzio Trasporti Veneziano)

Travel Time: Approximately 30 to 35 minutes

Purpose: Line 17 Vaporetto plays a unique part within Venice's complex transport network since it has a twofold objective. It is designed specifically to carry people and miscellaneous vehicles like delivery cars, motorbikes, private cars, and bicycles. 

This makes it an essential line not only for locals operating logistics and everyday transportation around the lagoon but also for tourists who would welcome the ability to travel around the broader Venetian region by two or four wheels. 

From carrying building supplies, daily shopping, to simply looking for a beach-happy day of amusement on a scooter, Line 17 links the historic mainland to the residential and recreational districts of the Lido. 

It is this adaptability which distinguishes Line 17 from the standard vaporetto lines that provide walk traffic space. Because it's the sole ACTV-managed water bus line with autos, Line 17 is a treasure for drivers and passengers who need convenient  lagoon commutes. 

Its worth is an answer to a single city dilemma—offering mobility in a city on water with normal auto traffic otherwise not included.

Route and Major Stops

Beginning Point: Tronchetto Island

Situated just west of Piazzale Roma, Tronchetto Island is perfectly situated to capture car traffic in Venice.

Connected to the old city by the elevated People Mover and various routes of public transit, Tronchetto is an important motorists' node. 

The terminal complex here has large parking lots and waiting areas for the cars to board the ferry. Since it has infrastructure and location, Tronchetto is the best starting point for a car ferry line such as Line 17. 

It makes car loading in an orderly manner, ticketing, and timely departures from the lagoon easier. 

Destination: Lido San Nicolò The final destination of the journey is Lido San Nicolò, a terminal at the northeastern tip of Lido di Venezia.

It is far more than a terminus station; it has easy access to the island's internal transport system, including ACTV buses that travel out to favored locales like Lido Santa Maria Elisabetta (Lido SME), the stunning beaches along the Adriatic coast, and the resort-studded Cavallino-Treporti region.

Having plenty of room for vehicles to unload and proceed further on their journey inland, San Nicolò also serves as an important point of entry for tourists and daily commuters along the Lido. 

Direct Route: Vaporetto Line 17 features its express setup, having a direct journey from Tronchetto to Lido San Nicolò without servicing intermediate stops. 

Not only does this direct route reduce traveling time, but it also provides greater reliability and convenience for riders.

The absence of mid-point stops ensures delays are minimized and travelers can enjoy a fairly smooth ride.

Commuters A and B who reside locally and work or business individuals requiring on-time transport for services and goods appreciate this aspect of Line 17. 

Moreover, tourists who appreciate efficiency and convenience also find the line a better choice than less direct vaporetto routes. Adding to the two line ends and absence of gaps in service, the two ensure Line 17 is an example of the efficiency of the overall ACTV ferry system. 

Operating Schedule 

Vaporetto Line 17 operates year-round with daily service between Tronchetto and Lido San Nicolò. Departure frequency is, however, modulated to meet seasonal demand and special events. 

First Departure: Traditionally at 5:00 AM to cater to early travelers, commerce and trade activities, and logistics operations.

Last Departure: Typically at 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM with slight variations depending on season and operational requirements.

Frequency

Ideally an average of 50 to 60 minutes apart.

At periods of maximum tourist demand (spring and summer), and on special events of local festivities, e.g., the Venice Film Festival, frequencies are increased to meet maximum demand.

Passengers can readily access up-to-date, accurate timetables and service information from several sources.

The ACTV official web site, offering downloadable PDF timetables and service announcements.

Printed schedules at stoppoints such as Tronchetto and Lido San Nicolò terminals.

The AVM Venezia App, with live GPS location tracking and service alerts for Vaporetto Line 17 and more.

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Visiting Vaporetto Line 17

Visitor Information

Vaporetto Line 17 serves a specific but sizable constituency of Venice's public transit commuters.

Target Users

Cyclists: The path is ideal for cycle tourists, particularly tourists biking to Lido's wide, bike-compatible boulevards and sporting courses.

Vehicle owners: Also car riders taking automobiles, scooters, vans, and occasionally even service or delivery vans.

Residents and tradespeople: Also ride with the ferry on a daily basis to transport daily products, merchandise, or equipment from Venice to the Lido.

Reservations Required

Although not usually required, it is well over prudent to book in advance and get to the terminal very early prior to appointed departure times, especially around public holidays or on weekends and in the height of summer tourist season.

Vehicle ticketing transactions often involve some specifics, including size, class, and number of individuals transporting the vehicle onboard.

Accessibility: Line 17 ferries accommodate wheelchair travelers, buggies, and bicycles with accessible boarding and accessible accommodation.

Scenic Points: The Tronchetto-Lido San Nicolò route offers broad views of the Venetian Lagoon, particularly fascinating at sunrise and sunset golden hours.

Ticket Information

Vaporetto Line 17 passengers are asked to respect ACTV's systematized fare policy for motorized as well as non-motorized transport.

Types of Fare

Vehicle Fare: Varies by vehicle size and type. From motorcycle and bicycle fare to normal car fare and big van fare.

Fare of Passenger: Standard fare for non-vehicle owners at ACTV is currently €9.50 and is usable within 75 minutes on any ACTV line.

Tourist Travel Cards: They offer free journey on ACTV routes for 1, 2, 3, or 7 days but exclude the transport of the vehicle.

Options to Buy

Tickets can be purchased at special ticket points at Tronchetto and Lido San Nicolò.

Tickets can be bought online on the official website of ACTV (actv.avmspa.it) with multilingual support and mobile accessibility.

All walking passengers must pay and stamp their tickets at yellow ACTV ticket machines prior to boarding.

For vehicles, parking and organization within the ferry is facilitated by direct staff facilitation on board, guiding drivers to proper spaces and guiding offloading on arrival.

Under 6s can travel for free when accompanied by an adult paying passenger who is purchasing their ticket.

Recommended Tickets

Art & Architecture Walking Tour with Gondola Ride

Tour of St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace with Entry

Priority Tickets: Doge's Palace + St Mark's Square Museum

What to Expect Onboard

Ferries operating on Line 17 are configured to cater to vehicular as well as pedestrian traffic with a blend of convenience and utility.

Vessel Details: The ferries are open-air double-decker vehicle boats with the capability to transport several cars, scooters, or bicycles simultaneously.

There are closed passenger cabins above or close to the vehicle deck, and there are restrooms in most of the ferries for carrying passengers over long distances.

Seating: There are cushioned, ergonomic seats in indoor cabins where an individual can be sheltered from snow or rain.

There are outdoor deck seats where an individual can enjoy the scenery and are particularly enjoyed by tourists and photographers.

There is a lot of space for all classes of vehicle, and there are even dedicated bays for two-wheelers and trucks.

Ramps and baby stroller zones are made available for baby strollers and wheelchairs, so everyone with mobility needs can travel comfortably and easily.

Atmosphere: The atmosphere on the train is generally relaxed and utilitarian, hosting a mixture of local commuters, tradespeople, and tourists.

Unlike downtown lines such as Line 1 or Line 2, Line 17 provides a peaceful, not-so-busy ride, suitable for tourists seeking a peaceful lagoon crossing.

Line 17 Comparison with Other Vaporetto Lines

Line 17 vs Line 1

Line 1 is renowned for traveling along the Grand Canal, the most beautiful public transport ride on earth in Venice. 

It halts irregularly at the globally renowned sites of Rialto, Accademia, and St. Mark's Square, and it is ideal for the tourist sightseer who wants to do a bit of window-shopping.

On the other hand, Line 17 is a utility ferry line offering point-to-point direct connection between Tronchetto and Lido San Nicolò with no stopover in between. It is useful prior to tourism, catering to travelers in cars and users who need speedy transport between external islands and the city.

Line 17 compared to Lines 4.1 and 4.2

4.1 and 4.2 are loop routes and are intended for traveling within the city. They make circular runs around central Venice and its surrounding islands of Murano and Giudecca, and they have a number of stops which can add to travel times but provide extensive city coverage.

In contrast, Line 17 is a faster and more direct trip across the lagoon. It is particularly convenient for motorbike, bicycle, or car owners because it has a special service that even the other vaporetto lines do not have.

Line 17 vs Line 14

Both lines go as far as Lido di Venezia, though with varying intention and design. Line 14 originates at San Zaccaria and goes through a number of stations including Lido SME and Punta Sabbioni. It transports only foot passengers and is preferred by visitors.

Line 17, however, is the sole ACTV vaporetto line that can carry vehicles over the Venetian Lagoon. It is therefore the sole public vehicle in offering vehicular transport between Venice and Lido, thus deviating from all other services.

Ridden How to Ride Vaporetto Line 17

To have a safe and smooth ride on Vaporetto Line 17, passengers need to consider the following.

Arrive Early: particularly during weekends, summer holidays, and national holidays. Car parking becomes full quickly, and early arrival increases boarding chances.

Be Watchful for Weather: Venetian Lagoon is weather-sensitive. Windy weather or high water (acqua alta) may disrupt ferry traffic. AVM Venezia App will warn in real time with messages and updates.

Off-Peak Crossing Time: Mid-morning between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM and early afternoon between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM tend to be less busy, leading to a more peaceful crossing and easier boarding of cars.

Advance Booking for Peak Hours: For large events like the Venice Film Festival or long holiday weekends, advance ticket booking (specifically for vehicles) is advisable to avoid delays or rejection of boarding.

Secure Cargo and Belongings: When bringing work equipment or boxes, or bicycles, keep them securely in place. The ferry ride might be as smooth as silk, but loose cargo threatens safety.

Take Essentials With You: Although onboard amenities are sparse, travelers should bring water, snacks, or medication, if required, especially on longer trips or for children.

Line 17 is a pleasant and safe experience for both tourists and locals, but with a little planning, it can be much better.

Unmissable Venice Boat Tours

Conclusion

For travelers needing more than just a seat and a scenic ride, Vaporetto Line 17 provides a highly functional service across the lagoon. It connects mainland Venice with Lido di Venezia, not only for foot traffic but also for those driving cars, transporting cargo, or traveling with bicycles. 

Whether one is heading to Lido’s beaches, navigating daily commutes, or seeking a direct connection between two essential transit hubs, Line 17 delivers efficiency, scenic beauty, and practicality in one voyage.

Its utility, accessibility, and unique vehicular transport capability make Line 17 a cornerstone of Venice’s intricate and fascinating public transit system.

















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