By Miriam Gershenson
CORONADO, California – The Gondola Company in Coronado captures the essence of Venetian romance and history, offering guests an authentic gondola ride experience. However, it does more than just mimic the charm of Venice; it embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptation that characterized the Jewish experience in the Venetian Ghetto. Just as the Jewish community in Venice thrived despite adversity, The Gondola Company has thrived, creating a space where history, culture, and tradition are celebrated.
When Albert and I arrived, we were welcomed by staff that checked us in and offered us extras for the ride. We had a choice of wines, non-alcoholic beverages, and chocolates. Frankly, all were reasonably priced. I opted for water. Nico, our gondolier, escorted us to our gondola. As we approached the vessel, we started noticing the beautiful details such as the roses at the front of the boat and the gold horses on the side. Nico took us on a spectacular ride which in itself was so joyful, the bonus was being able to look at these giant single-family homes that are right on the water each with a yacht parked in front. Nico serenaded us with an authentic Italian song and made great conversation.
Following the ride, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Sean “Saverio” Jamieson, the founder and owner of The Gondola Company. He told us that his inspiration came from back when he lived in Long Beach and came across people who were rowing Venetian boats. He learned that they would travel to Venice every year for a regatta- a sport involving racing boats. This particular regatta is called a Vogalonga. It is a non-competitive rowing race that takes place in Venice. In fact, Jamieson said, “It’s not a competition, it’s a protest against the motorized boats.” Any human powered vessel can enter. Upon hearing this, Jamieson was inspired to bring this experience locally. He prides himself in finding an unknown area that is peaceful where the experience can be provided to those who come.
The Gondola Company has existed in Coronado since 1999. The Gondola Company came from humble beginnings at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort where the office space was shared with two other businesses and had one gondola. Since then, the business flourished and needed more gondolas and more space which resulted in a relocation to 503 Grand Caribe Causeway Suite c, Coronado and operating six Gondolas at a time including one that can hold up to 14 people in it.
Imagine gliding through the tranquil waters of Venice’s canals, the soft lapping of water against the gondola creating a soothing rhythm. As the gondolier’s melodic songs fill the air, one might not immediately connect this picturesque scene with the Jewish experience. Yet, the history of Jews in Venice is deeply intertwined with the city’s waterways and its iconic gondolas. From the establishment of the Venetian Ghetto to the vibrant Jewish community that flourished amidst the labyrinth of canals, the gondola serves as a symbol of both connection and separation.
Venice, the birthplace of the gondola, is also home to the first Jewish Ghetto, established in 1516. This confined community, surrounded by canals, became a center of Jewish life, culture, and commerce. The Jewish residents of Venice, despite facing numerous restrictions, contributed significantly to the city’s prosperity. They navigated the same waters in boats that would later inspire the gondolas we see today, creating a unique legacy intertwined with the city’s aquatic landscape.
Jewish culture is deeply rooted in the concept of community and shared experiences. The gondola rides offered by The Gondola Company provide an opportunity for families and friends to come together, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy a moment of peace and reflection. This communal aspect of the gondola experience echoes the importance of unity and togetherness in Jewish tradition.
Today, the Gondola Company not only offers a taste of Venetian luxury but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Jewish community in Venice. By bringing this experience to Southern California, the company creates a bridge between past and present, allowing visitors to connect with a piece of Jewish history in an unexpected yet meaningful way. Make sure to check them out on their website.
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Miriam Gershenson is a freelance writer based in Escondido, California