Private Boat Tour on Italian Gozzo on Lake Como

Discover the Charm of Lake Como on a Private Gozzo Boat

The Private Boat Tour on Italian Gozzo offers an intimate way to explore Lake Como over approximately 4 hours. Priced at $346.93 per group (up to 7 people), this tour promises personalized attention alongside breathtaking scenery. With a rating of 5.0 from 40 reviews and 100% recommendation, it clearly appeals to those seeking a high-quality, flexible experience on Italy’s most famous lake.

Departing from either Varenna or Menaggio, this tour allows you to sail past iconic sights like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Cipressi. The tour includes a personal skipper, safety equipment, and complimentary drinks, making it an elegant way to soak in the natural beauty and historic architecture of the region. Travelers should note that booking is typically done 32 days in advance and that the experience is bookable with a mobile ticket.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour boat tour on Lake Como with a personal skipper
• Pass by famous villas such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta
• Up to 7 guests per group, ideal for families or small groups
• Includes safety equipment for children and complimentary drinks (prosecco and soft drinks)
• Flexible itinerary with stops at Varenna, Bellagio, Tremezzo, and Ossuccio
• Booking in advance recommended, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand

The Experience Begins in Varenna or Menaggio

This tour starts with a departure from Varenna or Menaggio, depending on your choice of meeting point. The departure point in Varenna features a charming lovers’ walk, a pedestrian pathway running from the pier into the town, offering a scenic introduction to the lake.

From Menaggio, your skipper leads the boat southward, crossing the lake toward the area of Bellagio. The board equipment on the boat ensures safety and comfort, and the small group size keeps the experience intimate. The mobile ticket makes check-in smooth, and most travelers find the logistics straightforward, given the proximity to public transportation.

Exploring Varenna and Villa Cipressi

The cruise begins with a leisurely ride along the lovers’ walk, a cantilevered pathway providing panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains. Next, the boat passes Villa Cipressi, a historical estate with beautiful gardens that descend to the water.

This villa functions as a museum and conference center today, but its stately presence and botanical gardens make it a highlight of the landscape. The views of the Villa Cipressi and its terraced gardens are stunning, especially when seen from the deck of a private boat. This stop offers an excellent chance to appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historic architecture.

Cruising Past Villa del Balbianello and Punta Spartivento

As the boat glides across Lake Como, the guide provides commentary on the Villa del Balbianello, a renowned 18th-century residence famous for its gardens and appearances in films. The villa’s panoramic gardens and elegant architecture attract many visitors, and seeing it from the water enhances its charm.

Further along, the boat reaches Punta Spartivento, the watershed of Lake Como, offering sweeping views toward the north. This point marks the divide between the two branches of the lake and provides spectacular photo opportunities. The skipper’s narration helps you understand the geographical significance of this spot.

Visiting Bellagio and Its Cultural Highlights

The tour then proceeds to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como.” From the boat, you see its cobbled streets, elegant buildings, and the Parco di Villa Serbelloni. The villa’s terraced gardens and Romanesque Basilica of San Giacomo are notable landmarks visible during the cruise.

The park of Villa Serbelloni and the nearby Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, a historic luxury hotel, are also appreciated from the water. The boat can stop for a moment to admire the English gardens from the lake, showcasing exotic plants, sculptures, and centuries-old trees.

Scenic Passages at Villa Carlotta and Lake Lenno

Sailing south, the boat reaches Tremezzo, home to Villa Carlotta. This villa is famous for its art collections and extensive botanical gardens, which extend along the lakeshore. The boat offers a close-up view of its architectural grandeur and lush surroundings.

Next, the boat navigates toward the Gulf of Venus on Lake Lenno, where the Villa Balbianello resides on a peninsula. Its elegant 18th-century architecture and gardens are accessible for visits during the tour, if you choose to get off and explore — a unique option provided during the 4-hour experience.

Private Residences and Iconic Villas

The cruise passes Villa la Cassinella, a private estate with beautiful gardens on the western shore. Traveling further east, the boat skirts the town of Ossuccio, with its pre-Roman origins and the church of Santa Maria Maddalena with its famous bell tower.

An essential stop is the only island on Lake Como, Comacina Island, where it is possible to swim safely in the summer months. The crystal-clear water and tranquil surroundings make this a memorable part of the cruise.

Spotting Celebrity Homes and Villages

The boat’s route takes in Villa Oleandra in Laglio, the residence of George Clooney. The famous actor’s villa can be admired from the water, adding a touch of modern celebrity glamour to the scenery. The journey continues along the eastern shoreline to Nesso, a picturesque village known for its steep banks and the Civera Roman bridge, perfect for photography.

The village of Lezzeno follows, stretching across 7 kilometers of coastline, offering another chance for stunning water views. The tour concludes with a return to Varenna, completing the circumnavigation of the lake’s most notable sights.

Comfort, Drinks, and Safety Features

Throughout the cruise, complimentary soft drinks and bottle of prosecco (for guests aged 18+) are offered on board, enhancing the leisurely atmosphere. Additional bottles are available for purchase, ensuring everyone can enjoy a toast during the ride.

Safety equipment, including gear for children, is provided, reinforcing the tour’s focus on safety. Travelers are advised to bring an extra jacket, as it can be windy or cool on the water, especially during the longer stops.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

This tour is highly popular, often booked 32 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and value. The full cancellation policy allows for free cancellation if done 24 hours prior. Bad weather can lead to cancellation or rescheduling, but the owner’s flexible policy offers peace of mind.

Travelers should arrive prepared for shoes-off on board and bring comfortable clothing. The tour is suitable for most, with safety gear and easy access. The private nature of the experience ensures an undisturbed, personalized ride, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the lake.

A Memorable Way to Experience Lake Como

The Private Gozzo boat tour provides a luxurious, flexible, and intimate way to experience Lake Como. The expert guidance from your skipper and the stunning scenery make it stand out from many group excursions. The ability to visit gardens and see villas up close from the water offers a perspective that few other tours can match.

While the cost may seem significant for some, the private group size, personalized service, and scenic stops justify the price. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate comfort, exclusivity, and stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
You get use of the boat’s equipment, alcoholic beverages (including soft drinks and prosecco), and safety gear, including for children.

Are there any restrictions on the group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 7 people per group, making it perfect for small parties or families.

Can I visit the gardens and villas during the tour?
Yes, during the 4-hour cruise, it’s possible to stop and visit Villa Balbianello and Villa Serbelloni gardens, but tickets for entry are purchased separately.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring an extra jacket for the wind or cooler temperatures and wear shoes off on board.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, safety equipment is provided for children, making it suitable for family groups.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking typically opens about 32 days in advance, and early reservations are recommended to secure the preferred date.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The captain can reduce or cancel the tour if conditions are unsafe. You will be offered a different date or full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is this a private or shared experience?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating, ensuring exclusivity and personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but stops at villa gardens or specific points, like Villa Balbianello or Comacina Island, are available during the cruise.

What makes this tour different from other Lake Como excursions?
The personal skipper, luxury Italian Gozzo boat, and the opportunity to visit gardens and villas during the cruise set this experience apart from standard group tours.