A little bit of Venice will come to the south coast once again this month, with the Vogalonga Down Unda in Goolwa.

The Vogalonga Down Unda is a family-friendly, non-competitive rowing and paddling regatta. 

It is the Australian version of the Vogalonga, an annual event that happens in Venice, Italy. 

It all happens on Sunday 24 April in the historic river port town of Goolwa, on the protected waters of the River Murray. 

It's not a race, but an all-in fun day on the water in one of the best spots on the river.

A typical Vogalonga fleet includes rowing boats, kayaks, canoes, dragon boats, SUPs, skiffs, surf boats and surf skis, as well as some unconventional human-powered craft. 

Only human-powered craft are allowed to participate in the event – rowed or paddled mostly by hand and sometimes even by foot.

Team crews dress up in colourful themed costumes, wear their local club colours or create a team look to celebrate their crew’s participation in the event. 

Organisers say that individuals and family groups are also welcome to participate. 

“The more craft, the more colourful and spectacular the event.”

The boats complete one of three courses ranging from 6 to 18 kms. Lunch is included in the registration fee. 

The event starts at 9am with a parade of all craft from the Goolwa Aquatic Club up to the Goolwa Wharf Precinct. 

In the afternoon, there will be a picnic regatta with some friendly racing between similar craft. 

Spectators are welcome to attend at no charge.

Registrations close at midnight on Thursday 21 April. Full details can be found on the website.