Baveno, perched on the northern tip of Lake Maggiore, is a prime spot for boat tours and cruises. Its central location makes it easy to hop onto water-based adventures that reveal the lake’s best sights. We especially love the hop-on hop-off boat to the Borromean Islands for its flexibility and variety. There’s something magical about drifting past lush gardens, historic palaces, and quaint fishing villages — all with the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps. Whether you’re after a leisurely day exploring islands or an atmospheric sunset cruise, Baveno offers a mix of options that suit different tastes and schedules.
For those who want to combine scenery, history, and a bit of local flavor, the boat trips here are a hit. The Lake Maggiore: Panoramic Sunset Cruise provides a serene way to end a day, while the Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori adds a delicious twist. For a more comprehensive experience, the Hop-On Hop-Off Islands tour is a flexible way to see three key islands at your own pace. All these options are excellent for making the most of Lake Maggiore’s charm.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of boat tours and cruises in Baveno, each offering a unique perspective on Lake Maggiore. From a full-day hop-on hop-off adventure visiting the Borromean Islands to intimate dinner cruises on the water, there’s something for every traveler. We’ve included options like Baveno: Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands for island-hopping fans, a Lake Maggiore Boat Dinner perfect for food lovers, and a Sunset Cruise ideal for relaxing evening views. Keep reading for detailed insights into each experience.
1. Baveno: Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands
Starting from Baveno, this full-day tour is a perfect way to explore the famous Borromean Islands. The hop-on hop-off format gives you the freedom to linger at each stop — whether wandering Isola Madre’s botanical gardens, marveling at Isola Bella’s palaces, or soaking in Pescatori’s fishing village charm. This tour operates on a single-day ticket, so check availability for your preferred day.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of guided convenience and personal exploration. The boat departs from Summer Boats Consorzio Motoscafisti, gliding smoothly between the islands. Visitors rave about the timely service and the ease of visiting all three islands without rushing. Highlights include wandering the narrow alleys of Pescatori, relaxing in Palazzo Borromeo’s terraced gardens, and soaking up the beautiful lake views from each island. The botanical garden surrounding Palazzo Borromeo is especially notable.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible way to see Lake Maggiore’s most famous islands without the hassle of arranging multiple tickets or guides. The self-paced visits let you decide how long to stay and what to prioritize.
Bottom line: A well-organized, flexible, and scenic way to discover the Borromean Islands in one day.
2. Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo
For those seeking a delicious evening experience, this boat dinner from Feriolo to Isola Pescatori is an outstanding choice. The tour begins with a private water taxi ride across Lake Maggiore at night, providing a quiet, intimate setting with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. Once on Pescatori, you have around 2.5 hours to enjoy a meal at one of the island’s restaurants.
What makes this experience special is the combination of scenic travel and local cuisine. The dinner options on Pescatori are typically fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes, served in a relaxed atmosphere. The water taxi transfer is smooth and hassle-free, making the evening stress-free. Reviewers mention how the island’s beauty is evident, even after dark, and that the quiet, romantic vibe makes it memorable.
This tour is best suited for food lovers or couples looking for a romantic night out in Italy. It’s a short, 3-hour experience, ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Lake Maggiore’s charm.
Bottom line: A beautifully relaxing way to enjoy dinner with a side of lake views and a touch of adventure.
3. Lake Maggiore: Panoramic Sunset Cruise from Feriolo
At just around $17 per person, this sunset cruise offers a budget-friendly but memorable way to see Lake Maggiore. The cruise covers the Borromean Gulf, passing by Baveno, Stresa, and the Feriolo Islands before heading to Santa Caterina del Sasso. The hour-long trip is timed to coincide with the evening glow, making it perfect for photography and relaxing sightseeing.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on scenic beauty during the golden hour. You’ll see Isola Madre’s botanical gardens from the water, admire Isola Bella’s palace, and glide past the villas of Baveno. The highlight is the view of the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, bathed in afternoon light, creating a truly picturesque scene. The captain receives praise for being friendly and informative, adding to the enjoyable vibe.
This cruise suits budget travelers or those who want a quick, scenic escape without a full day of activity. It’s also ideal for families or couples seeking a relaxing, short experience.
Bottom line: A straightforward, scenic cruise that fits into any day and offers great views at an unbeatable price.
4. Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo
This 2-hour tour combines a water taxi ride with a visit to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Starting from Feriolo, the trip includes a 30-minute boat transfer to the historic monastery, where visitors can explore at their own pace. The tour provides a fantastic mix of scenic cruising and cultural discovery.
What makes this tour appealing is the focus on Santa Caterina del Sasso, a remarkable cliff-top hermitage with stunning views over the lake. The self-guided exploration allows you to take your time and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the family-friendly price and the smooth transfer, which makes organizing the day straightforward.
This option is perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a balanced taste of scenery and culture. It’s also well suited for families with children, thanks to the manageable duration and flexible pace.
Bottom line: A compact, scenic, culturally enriching trip that balances water travel with a visit to a must-see site on Lake Maggiore.
How to Choose Your Lake Maggiore Boat Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a comprehensive day exploring all three Borromean Islands at your own pace, the Hop-On Hop-Off tour is ideal. For a romantic dinner experience, the Boat Dinner at Pescatori offers a memorable evening on the water. If your focus is on quick scenic views without breaking the bank, the Sunset Cruise gives you a beautiful taste of Lake Maggiore.
Think about your physical activity level — the hop-on hop-off trip involves some walking and island exploration, while the sunset and dinner cruises are more relaxed. Booking early is wise, especially for the popular dinner cruise, to ensure availability.
Final thoughts
Baveno offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different tastes and schedules. The hop-on hop-off island tour is perfect for those seeking flexible sightseeing, while the sunset cruise is great for a low-key, scenic experience. Meanwhile, the dinner cruise combines excellent food with a beautiful setting, ideal for romantic evenings.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience will make your visit memorable — whether it’s wandering among botanical gardens, enjoying a sunset, or indulging in local cuisine. Booking early, especially for the more popular options, will help ensure you get the best experience. Lake Maggiore’s waters are calling — time to set sail.