4H Hour Private Cruise on Lake Como by Motorboat 10 PAX

Discover Lake Como on a Private 4-Hour Motorboat Cruise

The 4H Hour Private Cruise on Lake Como offers an intimate way to explore Italy’s famous lake, with a price of $2,136.29 per group for up to 10 guests. Led by Captain Giovanni, an experienced guide, this private tour takes you through some of Lake Como’s most iconic sights in about 4 hours. The tour features stunning views, legendary villas, and charming villages, making it perfect for those seeking a tailored experience on the water. The mobile ticket system ensures smooth access, and the group size keeps the atmosphere exclusive and personalized.

While some reviews highlight moments of disappointment, most praise Giovanni’s knowledge and the opportunity to visit renowned locations that many visitors only see from afar. The itinerary includes multiple stops at villas, villas of famous personalities, and even a swim in the lake, making this a versatile choice for lovers of scenery, culture, and relaxation. Keep in mind that the tour is best suited for those who appreciate flexibility and a leisurely pace, with some stops lasting around 10-20 minutes.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour boat tour led by Captain Giovanni on Lake Como for up to 10 guests
• Visit iconic villas, including Villa Olmo, Villa Erba, and Villa d’Este, with free admission
• Swim and relax at Isola Comacina or at designated stops around the lake
• Includes bottled water and Italian sparkling wine, with restroom on board
• Total cost: $2,136.29 per group, with free cancellation available
• Book on average 37 days in advance, ideal for those planning ahead

Starting Point at Sant’Agostino Floating Dock

This tour begins at the floating dock of Sant’Agostino, a convenient and scenic departure point on Lake Como. From here, Captain Giovanni guides your private motorboat smoothly across the waters, setting a relaxed and luxurious tone for the day. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, allowing for an easy start to your lake adventure.

Passing the Life Electric Sculpture by Daniel Libeskind

Immediately after leaving the port, the boat glides past the Life Electric sculpture, a striking piece by starchitect Daniel Libeskind. This public art installation has no admission fee and takes about 5 minutes to view. The sculpture’s modern design contrasts beautifully with the surrounding natural scenery, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Exploring Villa Olmo and Its Italian Gardens

Continuing north along the west coast, the tour reaches Villa Olmo, a neoclassical residence with expansive Italian gardens. This historic villa is also free to admire and remains a popular landmark. The 5-minute stop allows for a quick view of the villa’s façade and garden, which are often featured in images of Lake Como.

Admiring Villa Erba in Cernobbio

Further north, the boat approaches Villa Erba in Cernobbio, a villa once home to Luchino Visconti. Today, the villa’s exhibition center hosts fairs, concerts, and events, making it a significant cultural site. The viewing stop here lasts about 5 minutes, providing photo opportunities of the grand estate set against the lake.

Passing by the Luxurious Villa d’Este

The boat then passes along the Cernobbio shoreline, where Villa d’Este, a luxury 5-star hotel, makes a striking appearance. Known for the Concorso d’Eleganza and the Ambrosetti forum, the villa’s impressive façade is a highlight of the tour. The 5-minute viewing allows travelers to appreciate its elegance from the water.

Visiting Moltrasio and Villa Le Cassinelle

In Moltrasio, the boat stops for 10 minutes at the site of Villa le Cassinelle, famously associated with Gianni Versace. The villa’s historical significance and lakeside location make it a noteworthy stop. The brief visit offers a chance to photograph the villa and enjoy the lakeside ambiance.

Spotting Villa Oleandra in Laglio

Next, the boat reaches Laglio, home to Villa Oleandra, known as George Clooney’s residence. This 10-minute stop is ideal for capturing images of the villa while soaking in the tranquil lake views. The area’s celebrity association adds a touch of glamour to the cruise.

Swimming and Visiting Isola Comacina

The highlight for many is the 20-minute stop at Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como. Here, visitors can swim in the lake and explore the island’s scenic paths and historical ruins. This stop provides both a relaxing swim and a chance to appreciate the island’s quiet beauty.

Visiting Villa Del Balbianello and the Gulf of Venus

The boat then heads towards Villa del Balbianello, one of the most photographed spots on the lake. The 15-minute stop allows for coasting along the Gulf of Venus and viewing the villa’s terraced gardens. The villa is renowned for its dramatic setting and appearances in films, which enhances its appeal.

Admiring the Villa of Balbiano and Lenno’s Gulf of Venus

A brief 10-minute stop at the Gulf of Venus offers views of the Villa Balbiano and the charming town of Lenno. The area’s peaceful water and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for photos and a quick break from sightseeing.

Exploring Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta

The cruise stops in Tremezzo for 20 minutes, giving a chance to admire the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and the Villa Carlotta. These landmarks are iconic, with lovely gardens and historical architecture that are best appreciated from the water.

Bellagio and Villa Melzi

The boat makes its way to Bellagio, where a 20-minute stop includes a visit to Villa Melzi gardens. This villa has historical ties to Napoleon Bonaparte. The stop also includes a walk through the picturesque square of Bellagio, with the lake splitting into two branches, known as the tip Spartivento.

Tasting Aperitif at Lecco Branch’s Tip Spartivento

Next, the boat reaches the Lecco branch at Tip Spartivento, where an aperitif is served. This 15-minute stop features a swim in the clear waters and panoramic views of the lake’s most scenic point, perfect for relaxing and taking memorable photos.

Visiting Varenna and Lezzeno

The vessel then continues towards Varenna, a charming lakeside village. The 15-minute stop offers views of the village from the water, highlighting its colorful houses and narrow streets. Afterward, the cruise descends along the east coast, passing through Lezzeno and heading toward Nesso.

Exploring Orrido di Nesso and the Roman Bridge

A 20-minute stop at Orrido di Nesso provides the chance to photograph the famous Roman bridge and the spectacular gorge. For those interested, it’s also a spot to dive and capture social media-worthy shots of the rugged landscape.

Visiting Villa Pliniana and Grand Hotel Il Sereno

Continuing along the coast, the boat approaches Villa Pliniana, known for its ghost legends and historical allure. The 10-minute stop allows for viewing this grand estate. The vessel then passes by the Grand Hotel “Il Sereno”, recently renovated by the Victoria Secret Saint Bart group, offering a final glimpse of luxury before heading back to Torno.

Return to Como and Dropoff at Sant’Agostino

The cruise concludes with a 10-minute passage through Torno and Blevio, returning to the original Sant’Agostino dock for dropoff. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Practical Details and Inclusions

The tour includes bottled water, one bottle of Italian sparkling wine, and access to the restroom on board. Fuel surcharge is minimal at $1.00 per booking, and service animals are allowed. The experience runs Monday to Saturday from 10:00AM to 8:00PM, with confirmation received at booking and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private cruise suits those who value personalized service, want to visit famous villas and landmarks, and enjoy scenic drives with live narration. It is ideal for groups seeking relaxation, photo opportunities, and a taste of Lake Como’s glamor. However, the disappointing review reminds potential guests to communicate clearly with the captain if expectations are high.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Flexible Lake Como Experience

The 4-hour private boat tour with Captain Giovanni offers an exclusive way to see Lake Como’s highlights in comfort. The itinerary covers a broad range of villas, villages, and natural landscapes, with opportunities to swim and relax. The inclusion of local wines and bottled water enhances the leisure element, making it suitable for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a luxurious day on the water.

While the experience generally receives strong praise for its scenery and personalized approach, some reviews point to moments of disappointment—primarily related to communication and timing. This tour is a solid choice for groups wanting an intimate exploration of Lake Como, especially if customized and scenic experiences are priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. Keep in mind that the tour involves outdoor conditions and short stops around the lake.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 37 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, one bottle of Italian sparkling wine, and access to the boat’s restroom. The fuel surcharge is $1.00 per booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, with a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other Lake Como cruises?
The private, customizable nature, led by Captain Giovanni, along with a detailed itinerary visiting villas, islands, and villages, sets this tour apart. It also offers an authentic experience with the flexibility to swim and enjoy scenic stops.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.