Vaporetti Race
The challenge of artisanal boats in the streets of Spoleto
About Vaporetti Race
The Vaporetti Race of Spoleto
The Vaporetti Race is one of the most genuine expressions of the identity of Spoleto (province of Perugia). The "vaporetti" are artisanal boats without engines, built by teams and propelled along an urban route of about 1,300 meters: a race on wheels that reinterprets the idea of a regatta in a fun and competitive way.
Ingenuity, Local Pride, and Team Spirit
Each team builds and decorates its own vaporetto, creating a competition that combines craftsmanship, imagination, and sport. The event unfolds over several days: from the presentation of the teams in Piazza Garibaldi to the trials, up to the race days that ignite the historic center. It is an event deeply felt by the Spoleto community, which also attracts many visitors.
A Tradition That Renews Itself
Born in the 1960s, the Vaporetti Race continues to evolve while maintaining its popular spirit intact. Recent editions have seen the creation of new categories and the involvement of youth and women's teams, a sign of a living tradition capable of renewing itself from generation to generation.
Vaporetti Race — edition 2026
The 60th Vaporetti Race (2026)
The 2026 edition marked the 60th anniversary of the Vaporetti Race, held in Spoleto from June 11 to 14. Competing were 44 'vaporetti', the artisanal, engine-less boats with two-person crews, on an urban course of about 1,300 meters.
Among the significant new features: the return of women's teams, absent since 1996, and the introduction of the new A3 category, in addition to twelve under-18 teams. The program included the presentation of teams and "misses" in Piazza Garibaldi on June 11, free and timed trials on June 12, race days on June 13 and 14, and an awards dinner on June 20 at Ristorante Zengoni with the election of Miss Vaporetto 2026. For the occasion, a commemorative beer and a historical volume were produced.
Programme Vaporetti Race 2026
Thursday, June 11
- Presentation of teams and misses in Piazza Garibaldi
Friday, June 12
- Free practice and timed trials
Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14
- Race days on the urban course of approximately 1,300 meters (44 'vaporetti', categories including the new A3, women's teams, and under-18s)
Saturday, June 20
- Awards dinner at Ristorante Zengoni and election of Miss Vaporetto 2026
Highlights Vaporetti Race 2026
Prices Vaporetti Race 2026
Practical information — Vaporetti Race
How to get there
Piazza Garibaldi and the race route are located in the center of Spoleto, reachable from the train station (Rome-Ancona line). By car: take the Spoleto exit from the SS3 Flaminia.
Costs
The event is free to participate in and watch along the route.
Tips
To watch the races, it's advisable to position yourself along the urban track in advance, especially on the final days.
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Where does it take place — Vaporetti Race
Centro storico di Spoleto
Piazza Garibaldi, 06049 Spoleto