Private Venetian Wooden Boat Tour up to 10 pax

Discover Lake Como by Luxury Wooden Boat for Up to 10 People

The Private Venetian Wooden Boat Tour offers an elegant way to explore the stunning Lake Como in comfort and style. Priced at $810.32 per group, this exclusive 4-hour experience is ideal for groups of up to 10 guests seeking a personalized journey through one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. The tour is designed to highlight the lake’s most celebrated villas, charming villages, and hidden waterfalls, all from the unique vantage point of a classic Venetian-style wooden boat.

This tour features a flexible itinerary that can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a perfect choice for those who want a tailored experience. The guide, Jacopo, is recognized for his knowledge and engaging storytelling, ensuring each stop is both informative and visually stunning. With a 5.0 rating based on 14 reviews and recommendation by 100% of participants, this experience proves popular for its blend of luxury, scenery, and personalized attention.

Note: The tour departs from either Varenna or Menaggio, with the starting point chosen based on your preference or meeting arrangements. The mobility ticket ensures easy access, and most travelers find this tour suitable, though it does require a good weather forecast for the best experience.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour boat tour available for up to 10 guests in Lake Como.
• Luxury Venetian-style wooden boat used for a stylish, comfortable ride.
• Flexible itinerary covering villas, villages, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
• Departures from Varenna or Menaggio, with stops at renowned villas like Villa Cipressi and Villa Carlotta.
• Guided by Jacopo, known for his extensive knowledge and engaging commentary.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations.

Departure Points and Meeting Arrangements on Lake Como

The tour can start from Varenna or Menaggio, two of the most picturesque towns on Lake Como. Guests choosing Varenna will meet along the promenade of lovers, while those opting for Menaggio will begin from a designated meeting point in that town. Both locations are accessible via public transportation, making the start convenient for most travelers.

Once aboard, the boat travels along the scenic lake, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and lakeside scenery. The private nature of the tour means your group has exclusive access to the boat and itinerary, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger group excursions.

Exploring Varenna and Its Iconic Walks

The tour begins in Varenna, a charming lakeside village famous for its walk of the lovers, a pedestrian path that extends from the pier into the heart of the village. This short walk offers vistas of the lake and mountains that set the tone for the day.

Villa Cipressi is one of the first sights along the route, showcasing its beautiful gardens and terraced architecture. The villa, now a museum, is surrounded by lush botanical gardens that descend toward the water, making it a favorite subject for photos.

Continuing along the shore, the boat passes by Villa Villa Cipressi and the Villa that is both a museum and a convention center. The Botanical Garden surrounding this villa stretches for nearly 2 km along the lake, offering a tranquil setting filled with exotic and native plants.

Punta Spartivento: The Lake’s Natural Dividing Point

The itinerary includes a stop at Punta Spartivento, where the watershed of Lake Como is located. This point is the extreme tip of the Larian triangle and offers sweeping views northward, with dramatic scenery that highlights the lake’s natural divide. Here, guests get to admire the scenery where the lake’s two branches meet, creating a striking visual contrast.

Discovering Bellagio’s Charm and Its Historic Sites

A highlight of the tour is the stop at Bellagio, often called the pearl of Lake Como. This picturesque town boasts cobbled streets, elegant buildings, and the Park of Villa Serbelloni, an 18th-century garden terrace overlooking the water. The Tower of the Arts and the Basilica of St. James are notable historical landmarks nearby.

Guests have the option to disembark and explore Bellagio on foot, which is particularly worthwhile for a visit to the Museum of Navigational Instruments near the rocky Loppia beach. Here, sundials and antique compasses tell stories of the lake’s maritime history. The villa gardens and the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni with its English gardens offer stunning backdrops for photographs.

Villa Carlotta and Its Botanical Gardens

The boat sails southward to Tremezzo, home to Villa Carlotta, a renowned estate famous for its art collections and expansive botanical gardens. The villa’s architecture blends eclectic styles, including neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic, adding to its visual appeal. The gardens feature rare and exotic plants, sculptures, and peaceful pathways that invite leisurely strolls.

Across the water, the Gulf of Venus offers views of the Villa del Balbianello on the promontory of Lavedo. This breathtaking villa, with its carefully maintained gardens, is often regarded as one of the most visually striking sights on Lake Como.

Villa Balbianello and Its Enchanting Gardens

On a peninsula near Lenno, the Villa del Balbianello is a key stop, especially during the 4-hour tour. The villa’s gardens are a highlight, often visited by writers and travelers alike. Guests have the opportunity to visit the gardens and villa during the tour, with the purchase of tickets being mandatory and charged separately.

This location offers a wonderful blend of architecture, history, and nature, making it a favorite for photography and quiet contemplation. The garden’s design and views of the lake are particularly celebrated, providing a perfect setting for a romantic or relaxing moment.

Visiting Villa la Cassinella and Ossuccio Village

Further along, the route includes a stop at Villa la Cassinella, a private estate surrounded by large, well-kept gardens. The villa’s exclusivity means it’s mainly appreciated from the boat or during visits with prior arrangements.

The Villa in Ossuccio on the eastern shore is another notable site, with its bell tower of Santa Maria Maddalena standing out. Near Ossuccio lies the Comacina Island, the sole island on Lake Como, known for summer swimming and its picturesque canals. Swimming in the lake from this location is possible during the tour, offering a refreshing break.

George Clooney’s Villa and Lake Nesso

Guests enjoy views of Villa Oleandra in Laglio, famously owned by George Clooney. The elegant villa is often pointed out as a symbol of the area’s luxurious appeal.

The boat then crosses to the eastern shore to visit Nesso, a village on steep terrain with a notable Civera Roman bridge. This architectural feature is popular among photographers for its medieval silhouette and stunning river views.

Exploring Lezzeno and Final Return to Varenna

The tour continues north along the eastern coast, passing through Lezzeno, a village with a 7 km-long coastline. The final leg involves cruising back toward Varenna, where the tour concludes after approximately 4 hours on the water.

Practicalities and Booking Considerations

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, offering personalized guidance and flexibility. The confirmation is provided upon booking, and the free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The experience requires good weather, with cancellations due to poor conditions resulting in a full refund or rescheduling.

The mobile ticket makes access straightforward, and the group size of up to 10 ensures an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The price per group makes it especially appealing for families or small groups seeking a luxurious day on Lake Como.

Why This Tour Excels: Strengths and Limitations

This private Venetian wooden boat tour shines through its customizable itinerary, luxury vessel, and expert guide. The scenic stops at villas, waterfalls, and villages provide a comprehensive look at Lake Como’s highlights with ample opportunities for photos and exploration.

However, the price point of $810.32 might be a consideration for some, especially as it is based on the entire group rather than per person. The tour’s success depends heavily on good weather, and an uncooperative forecast could lead to cancellations or less enjoyable experiences. Despite this, the positive reviews and high ratings attest to the tour’s overall quality and value.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most

This tour suits groups seeking privacy and exclusivity, those who appreciate luxury and personalized service, and anyone eager to see Lake Como’s most iconic spots from a classic Venetian boat. It’s ideal for romantic getaways, small family groups, or friends looking for a scenic adventure with a touch of elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the itinerary on this boat tour?
Yes, the tour features a completely variable and flexible itinerary, allowing the guide to tailor stops based on your interests and preferences.

Is swimming available during the tour?
Yes, you can swim safely in the lake from the Comacina Island or other designated spots, but purchase of tickets for certain villas and gardens is mandatory and charged separately.

What is the best way to reach the meeting points?
Both Varenna and Menaggio are accessible via public transportation. The tour provider offers a mobile ticket, simplifying access to the meeting location.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people can join this private tour?
The tour is private for up to 10 guests, providing a luxurious and exclusive experience in a small group setting.

Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide, Jacopo, leads the tour, sharing insights about the villas, villages, and scenery along the route.

This Private Venetian Wooden Boat Tour offers a refined way to enjoy Lake Como’s stunning scenery, elegant villas, and charming villages, all from the comfort of a beautifully crafted boat. Its flexibility, expert guidance, and scenic stops make it a strong choice for those seeking a personalized and luxurious lake exploration.