This painting depicts the entrance to the Grand Canal with the Customs House and Santa Maria Della Salute Basilica

In the foreground we see a small 'straight stemmed' yawl and a traditional bragozzo lug sailed fishing boat. Further in the background is a trabaccolo, a traditional sailing cargo vessel of Venice, trying to 'tack out' of the Grand Canal in light winds

Further to the right a paeta, the most commonly used transport boat for the canals, is being rowed by a two man crew. Gondolas can also be seen transporting people on the Grand Canal. Two cargo schooners are tied alongside the Customs House in the left hand background

A light breeze creates 'catspaws' on the water and the warm sunlight on the vessels and buildings is reflected in the calm water. The misty conditions give a softening effect to the scene