The apartment is wonderful. Its not only 'on-the-canal-side' its on a canal so the 2 large windows open out onto one of the side canals off the Grand Canal. Its a popular thoroughfare for gondoliers so they're coming and going all the time. Quite a sight and experience.
The apartment is spacious, well furnished and except for a lack of a kitchen pantry with some basic items to use the kitchen fully and help the budget, the apartment is well equipped.
It's well located near the main railway station and a grocery store that sells both gourmet items and standard groceries. In addition to walking to the sights the apartment has a vaporetto stop a few minutes away so everywhere on the city is accessible.
On the downside, the apartment is right beside a side water channel for the hotel next door. The channel is narrow so the water taxis dropping off and collecting guests make a lot of noise trying to get in and out of the channel. The taxis start early and finish late at night servicing hotel guests.
Communication with Francesco is first rate. He responds quickly and goes out of his way to answer local knowledge questions. Check-in is great as Francesco meets you personally, helps settle you in and checks in occasionally to see if everything is fine for you.
Next time I'm in Venice I'll certainly check to see if the apartment is available.