2 Hours Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como 6 pax

A Private 2-Hour Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como: An Authentic and Elegant Experience

If you’re dreaming of gliding across Lake Como in a beautifully restored wooden boat, this 2-hour private tour offers an elegant way to enjoy the lake’s most iconic sights. For around $800, your group of up to six will step aboard the Navicella del Lario, a traditional Venetian taxi, fully renovated in 2021, and cruise past historic villas, lush gardens, and exclusive hideaways. The boat’s wood and leather interior exudes timeless charm, while the expert captain customizes your journey to match your interests and weather conditions.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its perfect combination of luxury and intimacy. It’s an experience tailored for those who prefer more than just a generic boat ride — you get a sense of the lake’s grandeur from its waters, not from a crowded tour bus. Also, the flexibility of the private tour means you can focus on the sights that intrigue you most, whether it’s a famous villa or a hidden cove.

One potential consideration is the cost, which may feel steep for some, but when you factor in the personalized service, exclusivity, and the quality of the boat — it’s a fair value for a special day. This tour suits travelers who love authentic experiences, appreciate fine details, and want to see Lake Como from a unique perspective. If you enjoy history, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Private, relaxed experience: Only your group on a beautifully restored wooden vessel.
• Expert captain: Guides you through the lake’s best sights with knowledge and friendly service.
• Stunning views and exclusive villas: Pass by famous landmarks like Villa Olmo, Villa Erba, and George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra.
• Flexible itinerary: Customizable route focusing on what interests you most.
• Comfortable and weather-proof: Awnings and drinks available in case of rain.
• Ideal for discerning travelers: Those seeking a luxurious, authentic, and intimate lake experience.

Exploring Lake Como from the Water: A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Lungo Lario Trieste, Como

Your journey begins at the tourist jetty in Como, a central location that’s easy to access whether you’re staying in town or coming from elsewhere in the region. Here, the Navicella del Lario awaits, gleaming with polished wood and leather. From this point, your captain will set the tone for a relaxed, personalized adventure.

Passing the Breakwater & Daniel Libeskind’s Life Elettric

The first highlight is gliding past the breakwater, where you’ll see the impressive Life Elettric installation by Daniel Libeskind. It’s a modern sculpture that adds a contemporary contrast to the classic lake scenery — a reminder that Lake Como is a blend of history and modernity. Passing the seaplane hangar further emphasizes how this lake remains a hub for both leisure and industry.

Villa Olmo & the Neoclassical Grandeur

Next, you’ll cruise by Villa Olmo, a striking neoclassical mansion built by the Odescalchi family. Designed by architect Simone Cantoni, this villa is an iconic sight, especially for its grand facade and manicured gardens. The boat’s perspective gives you a unique view that you might not get from land, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the moment.

The Luxurious “Paris of the Lario”: Cernobbio

Moving towards Cernobbio, known as the “Paris of the Lario,” you’ll see an array of luxury villas and elegant hotels. This area has long been favored by aristocrats and celebrities, making it a perfect spot for admiring the affluent lifestyle of Lake Como’s elite. The boat allows you to appreciate these grand estates from a respectful distance, with the chance to imagine life in such splendid surroundings.

Villa Erba & the Industrial Tycoon’s Estate

Sailing past Villa Erba, built in the late 19th century, you get a glimpse of historic architecture designed by Angelo Savoldi and Giovan Battista Borsani. Originally commissioned by Luigi Erba, a pharmaceutical industrialist, this villa reflects the affluence of the era and remains a major landmark.

Moltrasio and George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra

The route then takes you to Moltrasio, passing by Villa Olenadra, famously owned by George Clooney. The villa’s nearly 500-year history and celebrity notoriety make it a must-see. As you cruise by, you can imagine the actor relaxing in the lush surroundings, a feeling enhanced by the absence of crowds and the intimacy of your private boat.

Laglio & the Villas of the Rich and Famous

In Laglio, the views become even more exclusive. You’ll see Villa Oleandra, Clooney’s residence, and other elegant villas that epitomize the luxurious lakeside lifestyle. The boat’s perspective makes it easier to appreciate the architecture and gardens that are often hidden from land-based tours.

Comacina Island & Fireworks History

A short stop or pass-by features Comacina Island, notable for its fireworks displays and historical significance. The island’s fiery past adds a captivating layer to your scenic cruise, and the boat’s close proximity offers a more personal view of this small but historically important landmass.

Return via East Shore Villas

Your cruise wraps up by heading back toward Como, passing more stunning villas along the eastern shore, each with lush gardens and private docks. The water-level views give a fresh perspective, making it easier to appreciate the craftsmanship and grandeur of these lakeside retreats.

Authenticity and Value: What You Can Expect

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Thomas are both knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more engaging. Travelers note how they appreciated getting to see parts of the lake that are hard to reach by car or foot, especially the villas and smaller islands. One review describes the ride as “wonderful” and emphasizes the memorable day for families.

The boat itself, being a restored Venetian taxi, adds an elegant touch that elevates the entire experience. The wood, leather interior, and polished finish transport you to a bygone era of travel sophistication. The weather protection — awnings and covers — ensures comfort even if the skies turn grey, and the availability of fresh water and drinks keeps you refreshed during your cruise.

This tour is private, meaning no noisy crowds or strangers to share your view. That intimacy, combined with the flexibility to customize your route, makes it especially appealing for those wanting a more personal, relaxed view of Lake Como.

Price & Value

While $806.68 might seem high, it’s worth considering what you’re getting: a luxury, private experience with a dedicated guide and exclusive access to iconic sights. For travelers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and a memorable journey, the cost aligns well with the quality and personalized service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, luxury travelers, and those who love authentic boat rides. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a stress-free day exploring the lake’s hidden gems in style, this is a perfect choice. It’s also ideal if you appreciate expert guides who can bring the scenery to life with stories and insights.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For anyone eager to see Lake Como from the water with a touch of elegance, this private wooden boat tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the scenery, architecture, and history of this legendary lake. It’s especially suited to those who value personalized service, authentic vessel designs, and breathtaking vistas.

If your goal is to relax in comfort while discovering hidden villas and picturesque islands, this tour provides a superb balance of luxury and authenticity. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a peaceful, scenic day on one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes.

While the price reflects the quality, the personalized experience and exclusive access make it well worth considering for anyone looking to elevate their Lake Como visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the boat is equipped with awnings and covers, so you can still enjoy your cruise in case of light rain or clouds. However, severe weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation.

How many people can fit on the boat?
This private tour is designed for groups of up to 6 people, making it intimate and ideal for families or small groups.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, the guide (captain), drinks such as water and other beverages, and the use of the boat’s amenities.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the captain is at your disposal to satisfy your requests, which allows for some flexibility in choosing which sights or villas to focus on.

Is there a specific meeting point?
Yes, the tour begins at the Lungo Lario Trieste jetty in Como, a convenient and central location.

Are pets allowed on board?
Dogs are not permitted on the boat, but service animals are allowed.

This private wooden boat tour on Lake Como promises a blend of luxury, authentic scenery, and expert guidance, making it a memorable way for travelers to see one of Italy’s most stunning destinations from a truly unique perspective.