This is what it takes for a gondolier to work in Venice - and they can earn up to 150,000 a year

Becoming a gondolier isn't simply a matter of coordination; it requires extensive training and exams to obtain a license, reflecting the role's cultural significance.

Candidates must first demonstrate their water skills before completing a theoretical course covering Venice's history and regulations, alongside practical training with expert gondoliers.

The gondolier role is increasingly important due to rising tourist numbers, with only 433 licensed gondoliers available to cater to approximately 30 million annual visitors.

With gondoliers often passing licenses to their sons, many are nearing retirement, prompting a recruitment drive to maintain the workforce essential for Venice's tourism.

Read at Irish Independent