Lake Maggiore’s stunning scenery, charming towns, and lush islands make it a perfect setting for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a quick hop between islands, a leisurely private cruise, or a sunset sail with champagne, there’s an option for every traveler. We love the Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour for its flexibility and value, allowing you to explore at your own pace, and the Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore’s Borromeo Islands for its personalized experience and in-depth history. These tours highlight the region’s palaces, botanical gardens, and fishing villages, and offer a chance to see the islands from the water’s perspective. If you want a romantic evening, the Micaela’s exclusive private sunset cruise is hard to beat for atmosphere and intimacy. Read on to find the perfect cruise for your style and schedule.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of boat experiences around Lake Maggiore, including:
– Hop-on hop-off ferries that let you explore the islands independently (e.g., Tour #1)
– Private guided tours that dive into the history and culture with a local guide (e.g., Tour #2)
– Sunset cruises perfect for romance or photography (e.g., Tour #4)
– Mini cruises with food and drinks that combine sightseeing with a relaxed meal (e.g., Tour #7)
– Luxurious private charters for special occasions or just because you deserve it (e.g., Tour #10)
Below, each experience is explored in detail so you can pick the perfect trip for your Lake Maggiore adventure.
1. Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
If you’re looking for flexibility and a budget-friendly way to see Lake Maggiore’s main islands, this hop-on hop-off boat tour from Stresa is hard to beat. At just $17 per person, it offers a full day of island-hopping with stunning scenery and easy access to Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. The ferry runs every half hour during the season, giving you plenty of options to match your schedule. The highlights include visiting Isola Madre’s botanical gardens, wandering the charming streets of Isola Pescatori, and exploring the palaces and gardens of Isola Bella. The reviews praise the timeliness and simplicity of the service, making it perfect for independent explorers.
Bottom Line: Great for budget travelers or those wanting maximum flexibility to explore at their own pace.
2. Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore’s Borromeo Islands
For around $609.56 per group, this private tour offers a personalized experience that’s perfect for travelers craving a deeper understanding of the islands’ history, architecture, and flora. Your own guide will take you on a 3 to 5-hour journey aboard a private motorboat, providing insider stories and avoiding the crowds. The tour usually includes visits to Isola Pescatori, Isola Bella, and optional stops at Isola Madre’s botanical gardens. Many reviewers mention how the expert guide Micaela made the day memorable by sharing fascinating stories and local tips.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a luxury, customized experience with privacy and in-depth insight.
3. Stresa: 1-Day 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
If you prefer a more flexible single-day experience, this $17.35 hop-on hop-off tour gives you the freedom to explore Lake Maggiore’s islands at your pace. The duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, allowing for a relaxed day visiting Isola Bella, with its palatial residence, and Isola Madre, famous for botanical gardens. Passengers highlight how boats arrive on time and how easy it is to plan your day around your interests, whether that’s gardens, shopping, or simply soaking up the views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers on a budget who want to enjoy independence without sacrificing comfort.
4. Micaela’s Exclusive Private Sunset Cruise on Lake Maggiore
For a romantic and intimate way to enjoy Lake Maggiore, this private sunset cruise is a standout. Priced at $235.17 for up to four people, it lasts about an hour and offers spectacular views of the lake as the sun sets. Micaela’s local knowledge shines as she points out villas, gardens, and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Guests rave about how the golden hour creates perfect photo opportunities, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for couples or small groups. Drinks and prosecco are typically included, making it a memorable way to end your day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a romantic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
5. The Best of Lake Maggiore on a Private Guided Boat Tour
This 1-hour private cruise offers a flexible route to see towns like Pallanza and Baveno, and the iconic Santa Caterina del Sasso. For $193.40 per group, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a short but personalized experience tailored to their interests. The boat cruise allows for photo opportunities of villas and mountain views, and guests can opt to stop and explore on land. The reviews note the smooth and dependable service, making it a reliable choice for a quick, high-quality tour.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers with limited time but who want a private, customizable experience.
6. The Magic of a Private Sunset Boat Tour Around the Borromean Islands
This $237.31 private sunset cruise is perfect for savoring Lake Maggiore’s most beautiful sights without the daytime crowds. With about an hour of cruising, you’ll pass by Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and private villas, all while enjoying drinks on board. The skipper’s commentary enriches the experience, and the golden light makes photography especially rewarding. Many reviewers describe it as a “wonderful, peaceful experience”. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to combine luxury, privacy, and stunning vistas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a romantic, exclusive experience at sunset.
7. Slow Boat Tour for Small Groups with Appetizer on Lake Maggiore
For $104.18 per person, this 3-hour traditional wooden boat tour combines sightseeing with a casual aperitivo onboard. It’s a laid-back way to see Santa Caterina del Sasso, Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola Pescatori while enjoying local wines and snacks. Guests mention how Dario’s hospitality made the trip memorable, and the relaxed pace suits those who want to enjoy the scenery without rushing.
Bottom Line: Best for relaxed travelers who appreciate local food and a cozy atmosphere.
8. Exclusive Tour of Isola Bella with Private Boat Cruise
This 2.5-hour private experience combines a guided visit to Isola Bella’s palace and gardens with a luxurious boat cruise. Priced at $315.57 for up to five people, it offers privileged access to the Borromeo Palace’s ornate rooms and exotic gardens. Guests love how the guide personalizes the visit, sharing insights that aren’t available on large tours. The boat cruise at the end provides fantastic views of the island and surrounding landscapes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth visit with a touch of luxury.
9. Private Tour on Isola Bella with a Tour Guide and Sunset Cruise
This 2.5-hour tour, priced at $301.24 per group, combines a guided exploration of Isola Bella’s palace and gardens with a short sunset cruise. The tour is ideal for visitors who want to combine history and scenery in one outing. The guide’s commentary about the Palazzo Borromeo and the views of Stresa from the water make it a memorable experience. Reviews highlight its personal touch and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for history enthusiasts who also want beautiful sunset views.
$301.24 per group (up to 15)
10. Private Boat & Picnic Escape on Lake Maggiore
For an extraordinary day, this luxury private boat and picnic experience costs about $1,506.19 per person. It includes a 4.5-hour cruise with a delicious cold cut and cheese picnic, plus wine and water. Guests can relax and soak up the spectacular scenery while enjoying a customized itinerary. This is perfect for special occasions or travelers who want to splurge on a completely personalized lakeside experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those celebrating a special event or seeking ultimate privacy and comfort.
$1,506.19 per person
How to Choose the Right Lake Maggiore Boat Tour
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, time availability, and what you want to see. If you value independent exploration, the Stresa 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off provides great value. For a personalized and in-depth visit, the Private Guided Tour or Exclusive tours are excellent. Want a romantic moment? The sunset cruises (Tour #4) or private sunset boat will suit you best. Budget travelers might prefer the simple hop-on hop-off, while those celebrating a special occasion should look at the luxury picnic.
Booking early, especially in peak season, is highly recommended, as these tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Lake Maggiore offers an impressive range of boat tours and cruises catering to different preferences — from independent island-hopping to luxurious private cruises. The best choice depends on your interests, whether you want to explore at your own pace, learn from a guide, or enjoy a sunset with a glass of prosecco. For a full experience, consider pairing a hop-on hop-off ticket with a private tour or sunset cruise to maximize your time on the water. Don’t forget to book ahead during the busy months — these beautiful trips tend to fill up fast. Now, all that’s left is to choose your boat and enjoy the unforgettable sights of Lake Maggiore.