Private Guided Sailing Boat Tour on Lake Como with Aperitif

Lake Como’s Timeless Charm: A Private Sailing Experience with Aperitif

Imagine gliding across Lake Como, aboard a beautifully restored, century-old sailboat, with the sun setting behind the surrounding mountains. For a group of up to four people, you can spend about two hours exploring the lake’s most picturesque spots while soaking in the relaxed rhythm of sailing — all with a personal guide, Roberta, and captain Tiziano. The tour includes stops in charming villages like Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo, with opportunities for a refreshing swim and a toast with good wine and appetizers.

What we love about this experience is how it combines authentic maritime charm with stunning scenery and cultural insights. The boat itself is a major highlight — a 100-year-old vessel that has been lovingly restored, offering a tangible connection to Lake Como’s maritime past. Plus, the personalized nature of this private tour means you won’t be stuck with strangers, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a peaceful escape.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour depends on good weather — like most lake-based outings, wind and rain can affect the experience. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic moments and the chance to ask questions about the villas and villages from your knowledgeable guides.

If you’re looking for a way to experience Lake Como that’s both relaxed and intimate, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and gourmet treats. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy sailing, stunning vistas, and authentic local stories.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Boat: A beautifully restored sailing vessel over a century old that offers a tangible connection to Lake Como’s maritime heritage.
• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, allowing for tailored attention and a more intimate experience.
• Scenic Stops: Village visits include Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo, with opportunities for swimming and enjoying wine at sunset.
• Expert Guides: Roberta and Tiziano bring passion and knowledge, sharing stories about villas, villages, and sailing.
• Flexible Scheduling and Good Value: For about $867, your group gets around two hours of private sailing, plus a scenic, cultural adventure.
• Weather Dependent: The experience is most enjoyable in good weather conditions; cancellations are possible due to poor weather.

The Experience in Detail: What Sets It Apart

A two-hour private sailing tour on Lake Como isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise. From the moment you meet at Via Ercole Sfondrati in Bellagio, you’re stepping into a journey that’s both relaxing and enriching. The departure point puts you right in the heart of Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” offering a scenic setting to start your adventure.

The Boat: A Century-Old Sailing Charm

The boat itself is a centerpiece of the tour. Its age and restoration give it a character you simply can’t find on modern vessels. As you settle in, you’ll notice how the wooden deck and classic rigging evoke a bygone era. This is not a sleek motorboat but a vessel that whispers stories of past sailors, giving your experience a sense of authenticity and nostalgia. Several reviews highlight how extraordinary sailing on such an historic vessel feels, with one describing it as “truly exciting and romantic.”

The Itinerary: Exploring Lake Como’s Gems

The tour splits into two main routes, each offering its own unique sights and experiences.

South Route: Bellagio to Varenna via Limonta and Lierna

Sailing south from Bellagio, you’ll pass the nearby villages of Limonta and Lierna, both small but charming spots with quiet lakeside atmospheres. The highlight here is Varenna, a picturesque fishing village famous for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and relaxed vibe. Guests often take the opportunity to swim in the lake — a welcome refreshment after a few hours under the sun — and enjoy a glass of wine while rocking gently on the waves at sunset. One reviewer notes that seeing villages from the lake in such a restored boat was “truly exciting and romantic.”

North Route: Bellagio to Tremezzo via Varenna and Menaggio

Sailing north takes you past Varenna again, then onward to Menaggio, where you can admire Villa Gaeta — a villa that was a filming location for Casino Royale. This villa’s cinematic fame adds a playful touch for movie buffs. After a swim and some wine, the route continues to Tremezzo, home of the famous Villa Carlotta and its renowned gardens. Here, you can appreciate the lush greenery and artful landscaping, adding a cultural dimension to your sail. The reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make these stops even more engaging, sharing stories about the villas and local history.

The Guides: Passionate and Knowledgeable

Roberta and Tiziano are praised repeatedly for their warmth, professionalism, and depth of knowledge. Roberta’s welcoming attitude and Tiziano’s sailing expertise make the journey both comfortable and educational. Guests comment that asking questions is encouraged, and the guides are happy to share stories about the villas, villages, and the boat itself. One reviewer describes Tiziano as “a force of nature,” indicating his enthusiasm and expertise.

The Aperitif: Wine and Appetizers at Sunset

The highlight for many is the relaxing toast with good wine and appetizers as the sun dips behind the mountains. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that feels special when enjoyed floating gently on the lake with the beautiful scenery around you. This added touch turns the sailing into a delightful culinary and scenic experience, perfect for celebrating a milestone or simply unwinding.

Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately two hours, which may seem short but is packed with beautiful vistas, engaging stories, and serene moments. The price, at $867.61 for up to four people, is quite reasonable considering the exclusivity, the vintage boat, and the personalized service. It’s a premium experience—not a mass tourist activity, but one that offers genuine value through its intimacy and quality.

You’ll need to book in advance — on average about 39 days ahead — to secure this slot, especially in popular months. The tour operates year-round, from 10 am to 7 pm, allowing flexibility for your schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailboat experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, scenic beauty, and personalized service. It’s excellent for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays, especially given the private nature and the romantic sunset setting. Sailing enthusiasts or those curious about Lake Como’s cultural stories will find the guides’ insights particularly engaging.

It’s also perfect if you want a relaxed, intimate outing away from larger crowds, with a focus on authenticity and comfort. Keep in mind that the experience depends on weather, so a clear day makes all the difference. For those with a sense of adventure or a love for historic vessels, this tour offers a memorable, one-of-a-kind perspective of Lake Como.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In a word, yes — if you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich experience on Lake Como. The combination of a vintage sailing boat, personal guides, and beautiful stops makes this stand out from more generic boat tours. You’ll enjoy not just the views, but also a sense of connection to the lake’s maritime past and local stories.

The value here lies in the exclusivity and quality of the experience. While it’s a bit of an investment, the personalized service, historic boat, and scenic stops create a memorable outing that’s well worth it for those wanting something special and authentic.

If your idea of a perfect lake day involves sailing, scenic villages, and relaxing with good wine, this tour will likely hit all the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour is weather dependent. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
Approximately two hours, giving you enough time for a relaxed sail and scenic stops without feeling rushed.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.

What’s included in the cost?
The price covers the private sailing experience aboard the historic boat, along with the aperitif (wine and appetizers). You will need to bring your own refreshments if desired.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts at Via Ercole Sfondrati, 1 in Bellagio and ends back at the same point.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and there are stops for swimming if desired. However, children and non-swimmers should be supervised and comfortable on the water.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked 39 days ahead, so it’s best to plan early, especially for peak seasons.

This private sailing tour on Lake Como offers a perfect balance of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and personal touch, making it an experience you’ll remember for years. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy one of Italy’s most stunning lakes.