We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sean Jamieson. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Sean, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think one of the biggest misunderstandings is the assumption that we’re simply offering a boat ride. What we actually provide is an experience rooted in tradition. When people hear “gondola ride,” they often picture a quick, touristy attraction. But what we offer is the true Venetian experience. Every cruise is private, intentional, and personalized. We’re creating a moment – sometimes romantic, sometimes celebratory, sometimes simply peaceful – where guests can slow down, connect, and enjoy something timeless.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the owner and founder of The Gondola Company, a business that grew out of my lifelong love for the water and a deep appreciation for Venetian rowing culture. Growing up in Long Beach, I spent my childhood surfing, sailing, paddling, and rowing, but it wasn’t until a series of trips to Venice (rowing in the Vogalonga alongside friends) that I fell in love with gondolas. That passion inspired me to learn the craft of building replica gondolas, eventually launching The Gondola Company in 1999 at the Loews Hotel. Today, in the Coronado Cays, we offer private gondola cruises that create unforgettable moments for guests looking to slow down, connect, and experience something truly special.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work was the wooden boat builder I apprenticed with in Seal Beach while learning to build gondolas. He showed me that true craftsmanship requires patience, precision, and respect for the process; there are no shortcuts when you’re creating something meant to last. Working alongside him taught me the value of showing up every day and letting passion guide the effort you put into your craft. Those lessons shaped not only the way I built my first gondola, but also the way I’ve built and run The Gondola Company ever since.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to trust the process and the pull of your passions – they’ll lead you exactly where you’re meant to go. All those hours spent on the water, all those trips to Venice, and all those moments when something just “felt right” led me to where I am today.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the tourism and leisure industry is that authenticity doesn’t matter and that you can replicate traditions without understanding their roots. Some believe it is enough to just have a boat that looks the part. But what really resonates with guests is the genuine craft, culture, and passion behind it. The industry often forgets that people can feel when something is real cared for and created with purpose and that’s what sets truly memorable experiences apart from the rest.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m absolutely doing what I was born to do. From a young age, I was drawn to the ocean, to rowing, to that sense of peace you can only find on the water. Discovering gondolas and the Venetian rowing community just brought all those pieces together in a way that felt natural. It wasn’t the obvious path but it was the one that felt true to who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gondolacompany.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegondolacompany
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gondola-company/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegondolacompany
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-gondola-company-coronado?utm_medium=biz_embedded_content&utm_source=biz_badge
- Other: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32250-d1775683-Reviews-The_Gondola_Company-Coronado_California.html
Image Credits
The Gondola Company
