Lake Como: 3-Hour Luxury Speedboat Private Tour

A 3-hour luxury speedboat private tour on Lake Como offers a beautifully curated way to see Italy’s most elegant lake. Priced at $983.29 per group (up to 5 people), this experience combines comfort, exclusivity, and the chance to admire some of the lake’s most iconic sights with a flexible, personalized route. The tour is designed for those who value privacy and expert guiding, with the option to customize stops and the itinerary ahead of time.

This tour departs from Lungo Lario Trieste, 28, Como, and lasts approximately 3 hours. It includes pickup service, a sleek Jeanneau Runabout 755 boat that embodies classic Italian style, and a knowledgeable captain who entertains with stories about each stop. The experience is highly booked in advance, with most reservations made 77 days ahead, highlighting its popularity among discerning travelers.

While this tour is a luxurious way to explore Lake Como, it is best suited for those who appreciate private, tailored experiences and want to see the lake’s highlights without the crowds. The price reflects its exclusivity, but many reviews highlight its value considering the comfort, scenery, and personal service.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 3-hour speedboat tour on Lake Como for up to 5 guests
• Visit iconic villas, villages, and the only island on the lake, with free admission at each stop
• Luxury Jeanneau Runabout 755 combines style, performance, and comfort
• Expert captain provides engaging stories and adapts the route to weather and preferences
• Includes pickup from Como, with options for other locations
• Price of $983.29 covers the entire group, making it a premium but personalized experience

Starting Points and Private Pickup Options

The tour begins at Lungo Lario Trieste, 28, Como, with pickup and drop-off options available beyond the standard meeting point. This flexibility ensures travelers can start directly from their hotel or preferred location, making for a seamless experience. The tour operates with a mobile ticket, simplifying the logistics of booking and access.

Since the tour is private, only your group participates, allowing for a tailored, relaxed cruise. The gathering point in Como is centrally located, and the captain is ready to accommodate special requests or different meeting points when contacted in advance.

The Luxury Speedboat and Its Retro Charm

The boat used for this experience is the Jeanneau Runabout 755, which measures 8 meters (26.5 feet) in length. Its sleek lines and Italian style evoke a nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of classic wooden boats of the last century. The boat offers high comfort and performance, making it ideal for a smooth day trip. Its retro aesthetic makes it stand out, blending timeless elegance with modern amenities.

The boat’s size and design allow for a comfortable cruise, and its performance means you can enjoy the lake’s scenery at a relaxed pace or a brisker speed if preferred.

Exploring Villas and Historic Towns

The tour’s itinerary features stops at several of Lake Como’s most famous villas and villages, each with a rich story and visual appeal.

Villa Olmo is the first stop, a grand 18th-century villa now used for exhibitions and cultural events. Its free admission makes it a great vantage point for viewing the lake’s northern shore.

Villa Erba follows, once owned by film director Luchino Visconti and a location for Oceans Twelve. Its stately architecture offers a glimpse into Italy’s aristocratic past, with free entry.

Cernobbio is an elegant lakeside village hosting the Villa d’Este Hotel, one of the finest 5-star hotels globally. Its sheltered bay is ideal for admiring luxury yachts and stunning waterside views.

Moltrasio offers a cozy atmosphere, surrounded by crystalline waters, and features Villa Fontanelle (once belonging to the Versace family) and Villa Passalacqua, built in the 18th century. The latter has hosted Winston Churchill and Napoleon Bonaparte, adding historical prestige.

The Charm of Laglio and Celebrities’ Hideouts

Laglio is famed for being home to George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra and the historic Cantiere Ernesto Riva, a boatyard active since 1771. The village exudes charm, and the presence of a celebrity villa lends a touch of glamour.

The tour continues through smaller towns like Torno, notable for Villa Pliniana—a 16th-century palazzo with spectacular lake views—and Il Sereno, a modern hotel by Patricia Urquiola. These spots showcase the blend of history and contemporary design along the lake.

The Unique Experience of Isola Comacina

Isola Comacina is the lone island on Lake Como, separated by the Zoca de l’Oli, a stretch of crystal-clear waters. This spot is perfect for swimming or relaxing with a prosecco in the tranquil setting. The island’s free admission and peaceful ambiance make it a favorite highlight, offering a break from the lakeside towns.

Villa Del Balbianello and Other Notable Villas

One of the most photographed villas on Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello was built in 1787 and now belongs to the FAI—Italy’s National Trust. It offers dramatic views of Isola Comacina and the western shore. Its picturesque terraces and historical significance have made it a popular filming location for Star Wars and James Bond movies.

The tour also passes by Villa Balbiano, another historically significant property, known for weddings and its appearance in the film House of Gucci.

Enchanting Stops in Tremezzo, Bellagio, and Nesso

Tremezzo is famous for the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and the immaculate Villa Carlotta, which boasts some of Italy’s most beautiful gardens. The village’s scenic setting offers sweeping views of the lake and lush greenery.

Bellagio, often called “The Pearl of the Lake,” features charming narrow alleys, craft shops, and historic villas. Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni are two notable landmarks, with the latter hosting illustrious guests like Winston Churchill and J.F. Kennedy.

Nesso is known for its spectacular waterfall and the Civera bridge, a medieval structure connecting the two sides of the gorge. The 200-meter-high waterfall is a favorite for swimming and photos, adding a spectacular natural element to the cruise.

The Villages of Blevio and Como

Blevio features notable villas, including the Mandarin Oriental hotel, and was once owned by opera singer Giuditta Pasta. Its waterside charm and historic villas provide picturesque views.

The tour’s final stop is Villa Troubetzkoy in Como, built around 1850. Its unique lift connecting the villa to the street offers a scenic finishing point to the cruise.

The Experience of the Captain and Customization

The captain is praised for entertaining guests with stories and anecdotes about each location. They are also attentive to weather conditions and route adjustments, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience. The private aspect allows for flexibility in plans, including planned or arranged stops at preferred locations.

Practicalities and Booking Considerations

Most bookings are made well in advance, 77 days on average, reflecting high demand. The tour confirmation is immediate upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with pickup options provided, making it easy to start from various locations around Como.

Since alcoholic beverages are not served to minors under 18, families with children can participate comfortably. The luxury boat and private itinerary ensure a memorable, comfortable cruise along Lake Como.

Exploring the Best of Lake Como on a Private Speedboat

This 3-hour private speedboat tour offers an elegant way to see the highlights of Lake Como, combining luxury, scenic stops, and expert narration. Its customizable route and small-group intimacy make it perfect for those wanting a refined adventure without the crowds.

While the price may seem high, the exclusive access, beautiful boat, and in-depth exploration of villas, villages, and the island justify the cost for travelers seeking a personalized, high-end experience. It suits those with a love for history, architecture, and natural beauty, complemented by the comfort of a luxury vessel.

This tour delivers a well-balanced blend of scenic cruising, cultural highlights, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable day on Italy’s most iconic lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the private speedboat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to explore many of Lake Como’s key sights.

What is included in the price?
The $983.29 fee covers the private boat, captain’s services, fuel, and pick-up options, with free admission at all stops.

Can I customize the stops or route?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable—stops and the duration of visits can be planned or adjusted with the captain before the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information does not specify age restrictions, alcoholic beverages are not served to minors, and the boat’s size makes it suitable for most ages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should consider bringing swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera. The tour provides luxury comfort, but sun protection and a sense of adventure are encouraged.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather and may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor, with full refund or alternative dates offered.