My wife and I rode the Gondolas on our honeymoon on our last trip to Vegas.
We did notice long lines every time we wanted to go. Finally one evening about 9pm we were walking by and seen it was empty!! We ran over to check it out and seen it was $16 a pop, or you pay double and can have the ride privately. What the hell is romantic about sharing a gondola ride!?!? Soooo of course they suckered us in for the private ride.
The ride was very fun, the singer was Awesome, he truly had talent and shouldn't have been singing on the gondolas, seems he should be doing something way more professional.
If you show up with your huge tourist drinks they have a spot to put them until the ride is over which is nice not having to pound a 75 oz margarita.
Take it for what it's worth folks. It's obviously Vegas, not Venice. Ride is fun and some might find it spendy....I DID....but at the same time well worth the experience. No need to ride it again, but surely enjoyed it when did. I would totally recommend taking your special lady on this ride.