Public Tour Lake Como By SuBacco

Exploring Lake Como by boat offers a unique view of Italy’s famous lakeside scenery. The Public Tour Lake Como by SuBacco provides an intimate, approximately 2-hour experience aboard the brand new Karnic SL651, departing from Como. Priced at $139.54 per person, this tour is designed for small groups of up to 8 people, making it perfect for those seeking a relaxed and personal atmosphere. The tour guarantees departure with at least 4 participants, ensuring a shared but exclusive experience.

This guided boat trip emphasizes stunning villa views, characteristic villages, and notable landmarks such as the Villa d’Este and Villa Erba. It’s a good option for travelers wanting a combination of sightseeing, local stories, and a taste of lake life, with the added bonus of music and drinks. While there is an additional fuel surcharge payable locally, the overall experience offers good value considering the personalized nature and the scenic stops. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxing boat rides with opportunities for swimming and photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Price is $139.54 per person, with a 2-hour duration.
• Small group size limited to 8 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Includes water, wine or prosecco, and music onboard.
• Stops at iconic villas and places like Laglio and Nesso waterfall.
• Additional cash fee of $20 per person for fuel and taxes payable locally.
• Meeting point is Ristorante Bar Lario in Como; no pickup service.

Starting Point at Ristorante Bar Lario in Como

The tour begins at the Ristorante Bar Lario, located at Lungo Lario Trieste, 28/28. The meeting is straightforward since the location is near public transportation options, making it easy to access from different parts of Como. There’s no pickup service, so arriving on time is essential to enjoy the full two hours. The public ticket system keeps the process simple, with a mobile ticket issued upon booking.

The initial meeting involves meeting the captain and boarding the Karnic SL651, a newly equipped boat designed for comfort and good viewing angles. This setup allows for relaxing moments with music and drinks during the tour.

Scenic Stops Highlighted on the Lake Como Route

This boat tour offers an up-close view of the lakeside villages and villa estates that line Lake Como. Starting from Como, the boat cruises along the first basin, where small villages such as Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, and Blevio are visible along the shores. These locations are charming and characteristic, with villas showcasing various architectural styles that are impossible to see from land.

The tour guide provides interesting explanations about the villa names and their historical significance as the boat passes by. The route also features Laglio, famed as the home of George Clooney, and the Nesso waterfall, which offers a spectacular natural sight. The stops are brief but give ample opportunities to admire the landscape and capture photos of the picturesque scenery.

Villas and Villages Visible from the Water

While on board, passengers get exceptional views of villas such as Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, which are not accessible from land. The guide shares stories about these estates, making the experience more engaging. The boat’s route also passes by famous houses like those of Giovanni Versace and George Clooney, adding a touch of celebrity allure to the scenic cruise.

The small group size ensures everyone gets clear sightlines, and the boat’s stopping points allow for closer observation of the villas and landscape photography.

The Experience of Swimming and Relaxation on the Lake

A notable feature of this tour is the opportunity to swim in Lake Como during the trip. The relaxing atmosphere, enhanced by music and drinks, makes for a laid-back experience. The included bottle of water and wine or prosecco are perfect for toasting and refreshing amidst the stunning surroundings.

The boat is compact, which some reviews describe as cozy but also small, making it less suitable for those seeking maximum comfort or additional space. Travelers should be prepared for potentially chilly weather if it’s a windy or cold day, and should consider wearing warm socks.

The Role of the Guides and Onboard Commentary

Guides like Fabio and Luca receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, with reviews highlighting their storytelling skills. They share personal insights about the lake and villas, creating a warm, engaging atmosphere despite some reviews noting moments of distraction or shortened tour time.

The captains also make stops for photos or a glass of wine, adding a personal touch to the overall experience. However, some feedback points to instances where the tour was rushed, with less time than scheduled, so it’s good to be aware that the actual duration can sometimes be shorter.

Additional Costs and Practical Tips

While the tour price is listed at $139.54, an extra fee of $20 per person for fuel and taxes applies, payable cash to the captain. This is an important detail to remember, as it’s not included in the online price.

To maximize comfort, travelers should bring cash for this surcharge, and wear suitable clothing for the weather. The tour is recommended for moderate physically fit individuals, as it involves boarding and some sitting in a small boat.

Pacing, Timing, and Overall Duration

The 2-hour tour promises a relaxing pace with several stops along the route, but some reviews note timing issues, including late departures and shorter durations. It’s advisable to arrive early to ensure full participation. The tour ends back at Ristorante Bar Lario, with no drop-off or pick-up service, so plan accordingly for your transportation once the tour concludes.

The Experience for Different Types of Visitors

This boat tour suits those looking for a personalized, scenic adventure with informative guides. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate relaxed sightseeing and photo ops. The small boat size fosters a cozy atmosphere, making it a great setting for socializing and making new friends.

However, travelers craving more space or extended stops might find the small boat somewhat confining. Also, since the route doesn’t include Bellagio due to distance, it’s best suited for those interested in the lake’s central and western areas.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility. For full refunds, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance; less notice results in no refund.

Good weather is essential for this experience, and if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The minimum group size applies; if not met, the date may be rescheduled or refunded.

Lake Como by SuBacco: An Authentic, Intimate Lake Experience

This public boat tour stands out for its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery. The 2-hour cruise offers a chance to view iconic villas, stop for photos, and enjoy drinks onboard. The small group size ensures a close-up experience that can include swimming and relaxation.

While the additional fuel fee might be a surprise, most guests find that the overall value and scenic highlights justify the cost. It’s a great choice for those who want a personalized, scenic experience on Lake Como, especially if they appreciate informative guides and intimate boat rides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Lake Como boat tour?
The tour costs $139.54 per person and includes water, wine or prosecco, and music.

How long does the tour last?
The scheduled duration is about 2 hours, though some reviews note shorter actual times due to timing issues.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Ristorante Bar Lario in Como, located at Lungo Lario Trieste, 28/28.

Is there an additional fee I should be aware of?
Yes, there is a $20 per person fuel surcharge payable cash to the captain during the tour.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible and included as part of the relaxing experience.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes if it’s cold or windy, as the boat can be cozy and exposed to the elements.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The small boat and moderate physical fitness requirement suggest it’s best suited for those with stable mobility; no specific accessibility info is available.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 22 days in advance, but same-day bookings might be possible depending on availability.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; in case of poor weather, the tour will be canceled and a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits families and small groups, especially those interested in scenic views and informative guides.