La Sensa is one of the oldest festivals in Venice, dating from 997 and often referred to as the Wedding with the Sea. Boats of all sizes and shapes gathered in front of St Mark’s Square before going across the lagoon to The Lido where a golden ring is thrown into the sea. The lead boat, shown above, is a reproduction of a Doge’s barge with the Mayor of Venice and his supporters dressed in red velvet at the front.