3 Hours Private and Guided Cruise on Lake Como by Motorboat

Discover the stunning beauty of Lake Como on a private 3-hour guided motorboat cruise designed for up to 7 guests. For $1,094.78 per group, this tour offers an intimate way to explore Italy’s most enchanting lake, with a professional guide leading the way. The tour departs from Como, specifically from via Lungo Lario Trieste 26, and promises a personalized experience with flexible itineraries based on your preferences.

Traveling in a luxurious motorboat, you’ll see world-famous villas, charming villages, and secret corners invisible from the ground. The journey includes stops at iconic sites like Villa d’Este, George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, and Villa Carlotta, along with opportunities to swim at Isola Comacina. The tour consistently earns a perfect 5-star rating from 16 reviews, with 100% recommending it. While the 3-hour duration makes for a rundown, be prepared for a pace that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, private experience with tailored stops and expert commentary. It suits visitors wanting to see the lake from the water, learn about its history and villas, and enjoy the stunning scenery at a comfortable, unhurried pace. Keep in mind that booking is usually 46 days in advance, and the price covers the full group, not per individual.

Key Points

• Private 3-hour guided boat tour on Lake Como for up to 7 guests
• Cost: $1,094.78 per group, with flexible itinerary options
• Starts at Como, from via Lungo Lario Trieste 26
• Visits villas, villages, islands, including Villa d’Este and Villa Oleandra
• Stops include swimming at Isola Comacina and sightseeing at Lenno and Bellagio
• Rated 5/5 with glowing reviews for the knowledgeable guide and scenic views

Starting Point and Booking Details on Lake Como

The tour begins at Lungo Lario Trieste 26 in Como, directly in front of the Lario bar. This convenient meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for visitors arriving locally or from nearby towns. The activity is private, meaning only your group joins the boat, allowing for a personalized experience.

Booking typically occurs 46 days in advance, highlighting the tour’s popularity. The mobile ticket feature simplifies access on the day of the trip, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, offering flexibility if plans change.

The Itinerary: From Como to Bellagio and Beyond

The boat departs from Como, skimming along the lakefront to showcase highlights like Villa Olmo, a stunning Neoclassical villa that now hosts the Centro Volta. The guide points out details of the villas and explains the significance of each site throughout the cruise.

One of the first stops is Life Electric, a sculpture by Daniel Libeskind at the breakwater, which adds a modern artistic touch to the scenic landscape. From there, the boat continues northward, offering views of Villa Erba in Cernobbio, known for its connection to director Luchino Visconti.

The tour also includes visits to Villa d’Este, famous for its luxury hotel and floating pool, and Moltrasio, home to Villa Pizzo and Villa le Fontanelle, previously owned by Gianni Versace. At Laglio, the boat reaches George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, a highlight for fans of the actor.

The route extends to Brienno, where a medieval church (San Vittore) overlooks the water, and Torno, renowned for its luxury hotels. At Isola Comacina, the sole island on Lake Como, swimmers can enjoy a 20-minute stop for a refreshing dip.

Further along, the boat visits Villa Balbianello, famed for its long gulf of Venus, and the charming town of Lenno, with its Villa Carlotta and iconic gardens. Crossing to Bellagio, the cruise includes views of Villa Melzi before reaching Bellagio’s main square, famous worldwide.

The journey then continues southward, passing Lezzeno, with its 7 km-long view of the lake, and Orrido di Nesso, a striking Roman bridge over a natural gorge. The final stops feature Torno with its luxury hotels and Blevio, home to the Troubetzkoy villa, before returning to Como.

The Unique Appeal of This Private Lake Como Cruise

This tour’s standout feature is its customizability; you can choose from various itineraries tailored to your interests, whether focusing on the villas, villages, or natural wonders of Lake Como. The private setting ensures an intimate experience, free from crowds, and allows you to spend more time at each site.

The expert captain and guide provide engaging commentary, sharing stories about the villas’ owners, historical trivia, and fun facts. Plus, the boat is described as beautiful and cozy, ideal for photos and relaxed sightseeing. The option to swim at Isola Comacina adds a refreshing element to the trip.

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable, friendly guide Ricky, who makes guests feel welcome and enriches the experience with his storytelling. Many mention the stunning scenery and the chance to see villas like George Clooney’s from an exclusive perspective.

Practicalities: How the Tour Works

The tour’s duration of approximately 3 hours is well-balanced, allowing substantial sightseeing without feeling rushed. The tour includes stops at key sites, with some pauses lasting around 20 minutes to explore specific villas or swim.

The cost covers your entire group, making it a good value for a private experience. Travelers should consider timing, as the tour depends on good weather, and cancellations due to weather incur a full refund or rescheduling. The activity is suitable for most travelers, given that it generally requires no strenuous activity, but comfort with boat rides is recommended.

The Experience of the Guide, Ricky

Ricky, the tour guide, emerges as a highlight in reviews. Described as friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate, Ricky’s storytelling and local insights enhance the overall experience. Reviewers praise his professionalism and ability to make guests feel at home aboard his beautiful boat.

The prosecco and water offered during the tour add a touch of luxury, while Ricky’s personal charm makes the cruise feel special and tailored. Many reviews emphasize how Ricky’s local expertise and warm personality elevate an already scenic journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private, guided boat tour suits anyone eager to see Lake Como from the water in a comfortable, intimate setting. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized experience with flexibility in stops and pacing.

It’s particularly appealing for those interested in villa architecture, luxury hotels, and celebrity sightings like George Clooney’s villa. The option to swim at Isola Comacina adds a fun, refreshing element for guests comfortable on boats and in water.

Final Thoughts on This Lake Como Boat Tour

The 3-hour private cruise on Lake Como offers a luxurious, personalized way to explore Italy’s most scenic lake. With expert guidance, flexible stops, and a beautiful boat, the experience feels exclusive and memorable. The consistent 5-star reviews attest to its quality, especially highlighting Ricky’s knowledge and friendliness.

While the price is on the higher side, it includes all stops and the entire group, providing good value for an intimate, tailored journey. This tour best suits those who want to see the villas, villages, and natural wonders of Lake Como with a local expert at the helm.

If you seek a relaxed, scenic, and informative cruise that combines luxury with authenticity, this tour delivers in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The $1,094.78 fee covers the private 3-hour boat cruise, the guide’s expertise, and the use of the boat for your group of up to 7 guests. Stops at various villas, islands, and towns are included, along with swimming opportunities at Isola Comacina.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific age restrictions are noted, the tour’s smooth boat ride and short duration generally make it accessible for families. Guests should be comfortable around boats and water, especially for the swimming stop.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests are advised to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection from the sun. A swimsuit and towel are recommended if planning to swim at Isola Comacina. The boat is described as cozy and beautiful, perfect for photography.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers various itineraries based on your preferences. The guide can focus on villas, villages, or natural sites like the ravine of Nesso and Villa Balbianello, ensuring a tailored experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for a refund, and changes are not accepted within that window. The tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations due to poor weather fully refundable or rescheduled.