Looking for the best boat tours of Lake Como? The mesmerizing lake and its surrounding villages are a fairytale destination, and worth exploring from the water. Check out the very best experiences!
Lake Como is situated in the Lombardy region of Italy and is known for its stunning natural scenery. Plus, it’s a popular destination for tourists from all over the world and a coveted summer hotspot. It’s very high up on every traveler’s Northern Italy Itinerary and for a good reason!
While its enchanting towns and opulent villas are jaw-dropping landmarks worth visiting, the ultimate way of enjoying a day in the area is by heading to the lake and cruising it on a boat trip.
Being the highlight of the region, the lake offers a great number of fabulous boat experiences, making it quite hard to discern the very best ones to suit your interests, budget, or number of people. In this article, I have compiled the absolute top boat tours of Lake Como to help you make the decision.
Everything from private trips to villa visits, romantic dinner cruises, tours over to Switzerland, and boat rentals is included. These boat tours provide a unique and unforgettable way to explore this beautiful Italian region. Read on, and take your pick!
⚠️ Please note that some of the tours below only run during the high season (late spring to September, so they might look unavailable if you try and book many months in advance.
👉 Why rely on my recommendations for boat tours in Lake Como? As a Bologna native with a decade of experience writing about Italy travel, I’ve navigated more than just my hometown’s alleys. I bring the same keen eye and experience to Lake Como, ensuring you set sail on nothing but the most rewarding and authentic boat tours. No fluff, just the crème de la crème of Lake Como’s offerings.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
Table of Contents
The BEST Boat Tours of Lake Como
▶️ Cruise through the stunning lake on your very own vintage wooden vessel with this Lake Como: Classic Speedboat Private Tour. Your captain will take you to see all the beautiful sights around the lake, including the famous Villa Balbianello, where scenes from James Bond and Star Wars were filmed.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters around Comacina Island, and then head to Bellagio for a swim and to soak up the iconic Italian atmosphere. Finally, discover the famous Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo. This unforgettable experience is perfect for groups of up to six people.
📝 This Lake Como & Bellagio private boat tour includes: A private boat tour, and a captain. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ On this small group Paré, Lake Como: Sailing Boat Experience, explore the eastern side of the lake, taking in breathtaking views of Baia di Parè, Malgrate, Lecco, Abbadia, and the surrounding mountains.
During the trip, you’ll get to jump into the crystal clear waters for a swim or try your hand at being captain. As you sail along, your experienced skipper will guide you through the best spots to enjoy the stunning scenery and take in the fresh air. You’ll also have the chance to visit picturesque towns along the shoreline and immerse yourself in the local culture.
To cap off your adventure, enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a light dinner onboard while taking in a mesmerizing sunset view. This tour is limited to six participants.
📝 This Lake Como boat tour includes: A sailing cruise, a skipper, Aperitivo with Prosecco, and a light dinner. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Lake Como with a “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco. With an eight-person limit, experience the stunning lake scenery from a unique perspective enjoying personalized attention.
Starting from the dock at Sant’ Agostino su Lungo Lario Trieste, you’ll pass by charming villages like Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, and Blevio. Marvel at the stunning villas and their different architectural styles that can only be appreciated from the water. Bring your camera for Insta-worthy pics!
📝 This tour includes: Boat trip with a driver, bottled water, and insurance. Note: Fuel is not included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Balbianello Villa & Boat Tour from Varenna
The Villa Balbianello and Flavors of Lake Como Walking and Boating Full-Day Tour is a glamorous experience that takes you to the incredibly photogenic villa where Star Wars’ most romantic scene was recorded.
Overlooking the lake and the mountains in the background, a visit to Villa Balbianello is a real treat, but not the only highlight of this experience! You’ll enjoy a walking tour of Bellagio and Varenna, visit an olive oil mill for tastings of wine, local specialties, and olive oil, and cruise across the lake.
A visit to Villa Melzi is included in the itinerary, and the private tour that accommodates up to 11 people ensures an intimate day out.
📝 This tour includes: A boat trip around Lake Como, access to Villas Balbaniello and Melzi, an olive oil mill visit, food and wine tastings, a tour around Varenna and Bellagio, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The 4 BEST Lake Como Private Boat Tours
▶️ If you’re limited on time, nothing beats this 1 Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como 6 pax. You and your friends will enjoy a relaxing and very scenic cruise across the enchanting Lake Como in a traditional Venetian taxi.
The trip will zip you past several landmarks such as Villa Olmo and Villa Erba, the region of Cernobbio, and George Clooney’s lakeside house. Drinking water will be available onboard.
📝 This Lake Como boat trip includes: A private 1-hour boat trip. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Step aboard your own yacht and set sail with this Private Boat Tour on the Lake Como. Soak up the sun as you glide by stunning villas such as the 19th-century Villa Erba, once owned by Italian movie director Luchino Visconti, and the Villa d’Este, now one of the most famous hotels in Italy.
Witness the glamor of Blevio’s luxurious villas, including the Mandarin Oriental hotel, and learn about the famous towns and landmarks from your knowledgeable captain. You can customize your itinerary to your heart’s content, and enjoy the trip with up to 7 of your closest friends.
📝 This tour includes: A private boat ride, and a captain. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience the ultimate adventure with a 2 Hour Private and Guided Lake Como Cruise by Mostes motorboat. Hop on the elegant “Pegaso 22” boat, equipped with a powerful and silent engine and a sundeck for ultimate relaxation, and allow your expert captain to whisk you to the most beautiful places around the lake.
You’ll sail past iconic villas, luxurious hotels, and famous landmarks, including Villas Erba Oleandra, and catch a glimpse of Isola Comacina. Amidst stunning scenery, you’ll get to toast with Prosecco before returning to the port. The tour accommodates up to 5 people and promises a fun day and unforgettable memories.
📝 This tour includes: A private 2-hour boat trip, Prosecco, and a captain. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ On this Lake Como Exclusive Offshore 4 Hours Private Boat Tour you’ll witness the stunning local scenery and architectural wonders that surround Lake Como from up close. Glide past iconic landmarks like the Life Electric sculpture and the Volta Temple, along with the awe-striking, aristocratic Villas that are a staple of the area. Villa Olmo, Villa Balbiano, and Villa del Balbianello will display all their splendor as you see them from the water.
The tour will take you through charming towns like Cernobbio, Tremezzo, and Torno, and has the added luxury of a personalized schedule and optional swimming stops at Isola Comacina, where you’ll also indulge in a drink. With room for up to eight people, gather your squad and hop aboard!
📝 This luxury boat tour in Lake Como includes: Boat trip, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sailing Tours on Lake Como
▶️ Ready to discover the most breathtaking spots on Lake Como in a unique way? Step on board a 38-foot private yacht for a Sunset sailing tour on Lake Como with private skipper.
The tour offers breathtaking views of hidden coves, stunning villas, and picturesque towns bathed in the golden light of sunset. Sip on Prosecco and nibble on local specialties while enjoying unique views of Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi as your local skipper guides you through the lake’s history and culture.
This private tour on a spectacular Lake Como yacht accommodates up to 9 people and offers a flexible itinerary.
📝 This Lake Como sunset cruise includes: A private sunset cruise, Prosecco, snacks, and an expert skipper. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots? This Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper is the answer. Hop aboard an elegant 8.5 m-long vessel for a Lake Como tour from Bellagio, and admire the picturesque shoreline, featuring iconic landmarks like Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi, as you glide along.
Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the lake or kick back with music, drinks, and snacks while enjoying the beauty of Lake Como at your own pace, away from the crowds. And don’t worry about the details – private boats can accommodate up to nine people in the utmost style!
📝 This tour includes: A private boat trip, an expert skipper, snacks, and alcoholic drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Lake Como Tours from Milan with Boat Ride
▶️ Embark on a Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip from Milan for a day full of fun and beauty. You’ll be whisked from the city to enjoy a walking tour of the town of Como, before enjoying a scenic lake cruise across the lake.
Depending on the season, you’ll have free time to explore the charming town of Bellagio during the summertime. If you’re visiting in the winter, you’ll instead take a funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views of snow-peaked mountains and luxury villas.
Marvel at the gorgeous scenery from the water, and learn about the area’s highlights from your knowledgeable guide.
📝 This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a walking tour of Como, a boat trip, and either a visit to Bellagio or a funicular ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience the best of both worlds with a Full-Day Trip to Como, Lugano and Bellagio from Milan, which takes you to two different countries in one day. You’ll make your way to Lake Como where you’ll enjoy a comprehensive walking tour to learn about the art, history, and traditions of the area.
Then make your way to Lugano, Switzerland, to wander around its charming alleys and take in the glorious views. Finally, head to Cadenabbia for a scenic ferry ride over to Bellagio, where you’ll have time to explore at your own pace.
📝 This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, ferry ride, and a walking tour of Como ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Lake Como Boat Rental (Drive Your Own Boat)
Become a captain for a day and explore the stunning lake at your leisure with this Personal Lake Como Motor Boat Rental. Start your adventure in Sant’Agostino su Lungo Lario Trieste, where you’ll get a quick briefing on how to navigate the vessel.
Then, it’s time to set sail and discover the hidden gems of the lake, from sun-kissed swimming spots to picturesque towns along the shoreline. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you’ll create unforgettable memories on this DIY tour. The boat accommodates up to five people.
📝 This tour includes: Boat rental, safety equipment, and a GPS. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Romantic Cruise with Dinner in Lake Como
Get ready for a candlelit experience like no other with this Floating Luxury Dinner Crossing Lake Como.
This tour is the perfect way to end your day as you glide across the lake, admiring the coastal villages of Bellagio and Tremezzo as they lit up for the night, and indulging in a scrumptious dinner.
A talented chef will prepare a delicious meal on board, complete with refreshing beverages, that you’ll get to relish as you sit back and relax amidst the stunning scenery. Catering to 2 passengers, this is the ultimate romantic experience.
📝 This Lake Como dinner cruise includes: A private boat tour, a water, and dinner with beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Lake Como Boat Tours FAQs
In my opinion, the best Lake Como boat rides include these below:
• Lake Como: Classic Speedboat Private Tour
• Paré, Lake Como: Sailing Boat Experience
• “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco
Yes, you can book the Personal Lake Como Motor Boat Rental to drive your very own vessel and plan your boat trip the way you see fit.
The best private boat tours of Lake Como, in my opinion, are the following:
• 1 Hour Private Lake Como Wooden Boat Tour for 6 pax
• Private Boat Tour on the Lake Como
• 2 Hour Private and Guided Cruise to Lake Como Mostes motorboat
• Lake Como Exclusive Offshore 4 Hours Private Boat Tour
