<P> The gondola (/ ˈɡɒndələ /; Italian: (ˈɡondola)) is a traditional, flat - bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon . It is similar to a canoe, except it is narrower . It is propelled by a gondolier, who uses a rowing oar, which is not fastened to the hull, in a sculling manner and acts as the rudder . </P> <P> For centuries, the gondola was "The Chief" means of transportation and most common watercraft within Venice . In modern times, the boats still do have a role in public transport in the city, serving as traghetti (small ferries) over the Grand Canal operated by two oarsmen . For some years there were seven traghetti, but by 2017, the number had been reduced to three . </P> <P> Various types of gondola boats are also used in special regattas (rowing races) held amongst gondoliers . Their primary role today, however, is to carry tourists on rides at fixed rates . There are approximately 400 licensed gondoliers in Venice and a similar number of boats, down from the thousands that travelled the canals centuries ago . However, they are now elegant craft instead of the various types of shabby home made boats of the distant past . </P>

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