This is the dramatic moment a passenger vessel hits the arch of the historic Guglie Bridge in Venice after suddenly reversing to avoid another boat.

The collision occurred around midday on December 1 in Rio di Cannaregio, in the Italian region of Veneto.

Surveillance camera footage shows the water bus of line 5.1 moving astern after encountering another vessel only a few metres ahead while travelling from Fondamente Nove towards the Grand Canal.

Initial reconstructions said both captains had sounded their horns to signal their presence, but the short distance forced the pilot to engage reverse gear to avoid a collision.

During the manoeuvre, the stern swung left and struck the inner vault of the 16th-century Guglie Bridge.

Another footage shows the rear of the vessel drifting sideways before making contact with the stone arch.

Local reports said the impact was firm but not violent, with the captain steering at the last moment to avoid hitting the bridge's support, limiting the damage.

The structure reportedly suffered only a light detachment of plaster, while the vessel sustained visible damage to its upper section and was recalled to the yard for repairs and inspection.

Transport company ACTV immediately replaced the craft to avoid disrupting public transport services.

The company said the pilots' expertise prevented a far more serious incident and confirmed that no passengers were injured during the sudden manoeuvre.

Local police have opened an investigation to determine whether a misjudgment during the manoeuvre or unexpected traffic under the bridge contributed to the collision.