Hi Robin,
Travel photography is not just about taking photographs; it is about telling stories, preferably with a bit of elegance and style.
When I look at this photograph, the first thing that I want to see is the bow of the boat; without seeing it I feel a little bit cheated. Further back in the image I also notice another gondola. What I feel might have made the image is if two of these boats were passing each other in a canal; about then you might be able to start creating a story. You would start to notice how narrow and cramped those canals are, and you would start to get more of a feel for how these waterways are the laneways of this city.
I know it takes some time, but one of the secrets to creating good photographs is to actually apply some patience. Rather than rushing a photograph just so that you can get to the next tourist spot, it is sometimes worth waiting a few extra minutes just to see if something can really evolve from a situation. Some days it might seem like a waste of time, but other days you do get lucky.
I think this demands a reshoot; book your tickets now!
Cheers, Anthony.