Burcio Historical Yacht: a Journey through the History and Charm of the Lagoon
Burcio Historical Yacht, built in 1920 at the F.lli Cobelli shipyard, is a vessel with almost a century of history and tradition.
Originally, “burci” were flat-bottomed boats, typical of the Po Valley, used for river transport of goods such as sand, sailing along the Sile to the river Delta, and pulled by horses along the canals. During the First World War, burci played a crucial role, transporting bulky materials and soldiers to otherwise unreachable areas. Legend has it that, in order to protect it from incessant bombardment, it was decided to sink it temporarily and then retrieve it at a safer time.
In the 1980s, Ottavio Missoni was fascinated by the boat abandoned on the island of Torcello and decided to buy it, transforming it, after careful restoration, into a unique and elegant vessel. The Burcio Historical Yacht thus became the scene of unforgettable moments, from the regattas of the Barcolana in Trieste to the events of the Biennale Art and Cinema in Venice, or simply for excursions in the lagoon accompanied by good food and wine.
Ottavio, with his unique spirit, greeted guests with his famous saying: “To dress badly is not to follow fashion, but it helps.” For many years, this historic vessel was a second home for the Missoni family, a place for meetings, relaxation and celebrations.
Today, the Burcio Historical Yacht is the last of its size left in the world and still sailing. The Missoni family, with the intention of preserving and sharing this precious heritage, makes the boat available to make its priceless historical and cultural value known.
A true testimony of the past that continues to sail into the present.