2 Hours Private Cruise on Lake Como Cranchi Motorboat

A Closer Look at the 2 Hours Private Cruise on Lake Como with a Cranchi Motorboat

If you’re dreaming of cruising through the picturesque scenery of Lake Como in Italy, this private 2-hour boat tour offers an excellent way to indulge in the lake’s most iconic sights. Operated by Dade Tour Lake Como, this experience showcases some of the region’s most glamorous villas, charming villages, and scenic viewpoints—all from the comfort of a sleek, well-equipped motorboat. What makes this tour particularly appealing is its intimate, personalized nature, with just your group onboard. Plus, the inclusion of a bottle of excellent frozen Prosecco promises a celebratory touch that elevates the entire experience.

One thing we love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with moments of relaxation and fun. The knowledgeable guide, Nicolas, is praised for his charismatic approach and ability to answer questions, making the journey more engaging. The boat itself, a spacious Cranchi, is designed for comfort, allowing everyone to enjoy the ride, whether lounging on the deck or snapping photos of the stunning villas and mountain backdrops. That said, keep in mind that this is a shorter tour—just two hours—so if you’re craving an immersive, all-day experience, you might want to consider longer options.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a flexible, private outing that combines sightseeing, light activity, and a touch of luxury. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a personalized experience, are comfortable with a quick but rundown of Lake Como, and want to enjoy some quality time with friends or family. If you’re after a more in-depth exploration, or prefer a larger group setting, you might find other options more fitting. But for a balanced taste of Como’s charm, this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Private and Intimate: Only your group on the boat, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Stunning Sightseeing: See villas, villages, and natural landmarks from the water, with expert commentary.
• Comfort and Style: The Cranchi motorboat is spacious and well-equipped for a smooth ride.
• Flexible Stops: Includes several highlights such as Villa Olmo, Villa d’Este, Villa Erba, George Clooney’s Villa, and the Comacina island.
• Refreshments Included: A bottle of frozen Prosecco adds a celebratory feel, with most reviews praising the wine and guide’s hospitality.
• Optimal for Short Trips: Ideal for a quick, scenic escape rather than an all-day tour.
• Easy Booking and Accessibility: Tickets are mobile, with most travelers booking 37 days in advance.
• Great for All Ages: Family-friendly, with reviews mentioning kids and babies enjoying the ride.

The Itinerary Deep Dive

Starting in Como: Gateway to the Lake

The tour kicks off at Lungo Lario Trieste in Como, a convenient meeting point close to public transport. From here, you’ll depart along the lake’s western edge, passing by the seaplane hangar and Villa Olmo. This grand villa is one of the most recognizable landmarks along Lake Como’s shoreline, and from the water, it’s even more striking. The guide will likely point out the free admission, giving you a quick intro to the area’s history and architecture.

Cernobbio: The Glamorous Village

Moving north, the boat glides past Cernobbio, a favorite among the wealthy and famous. Here, Villa d’Este stands out—not just as a hotel but as a symbol of luxury—and Villa Erba, with its historic connection to Hollywood films and Italian film director Luchino Visconti, offers a glimpse into the local high society. Reviewers consistently mention the “great personality” of guides like Nicolas, who makes these landmarks come alive with stories and insights.

Moltrasio and Villa Versace

Next, heading further north, the boat approaches Moltrasio, home to the villa once owned by fashion legend Gianni Versace. Although the tour doesn’t stop for a visit, the view from the water is enough to appreciate the villa’s elegant architecture and lush gardens. It’s a quick highlight, but one that leaves an impression of the area’s luxury.

Laglio and George Clooney’s Villa

Continuing along the scenic western shore, Laglio is next, where the famous Villa Olendra—George Clooney’s retreat—beckons. The reviews rave about the excitement of seeing such a celebrity residence from afar, with many guests noting the “spectacular sight” of Clooney’s villa. This stop is purely visual, but it’s undoubtedly a highlight for fans of celebrity spotting.

Island of Comacina: A Refreshing Swim Spot

The boat then heads towards Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como open to visitors. Most tours include a 30-minute stop here, offering a chance for a quick swim and some relaxation. The waters are described as refreshing, and the island’s peaceful ambiance makes it a perfect break from the sightseeing. The reviews highlight how this swimming stop adds a fun, lighthearted element to the trip, with some guests quoting the “absolutely stunning” views from the water.

Orrido di Nesso and Lenno Ravine

Crossing the lake to reach the Orrido di Nesso, the boat passes Civenna bridge and its waterfall—a popular scenic spot. The 20-minute stop provides a chance to appreciate the dramatic natural landscape. The reviewers appreciate the “very popular international destination,” noting that the guide manages to share informative tidbits while keeping the mood lively.

Eastern Shore and Tornos

After crossing to the eastern side, Tornos is a quaint lakeside village where the Plinian Villa, known for its legends, can be viewed from the water. The tour offers a look at the hotel Il Sereno, another luxurious property. The quick 10-minute stop provides plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of the lake’s vibrant lakeside communities.

Blevio and Return to Como

Passing Blevio, with its Mandarin Oriental hotel, the boat then heads back towards Como, with a brief viewing of the western shore of the lake. The final 10-minute segment offers a relaxed, scenic conclusion to a memorable journey, ending back at the starting point.

The Value and Experience

Considering the cost of $687.84 per group (up to 7 people), this tour offers a good deal for those seeking a luxurious, private experience. The price includes the boat, guide, and drinks, which helps justify the expense. The reviews consistently praise Nicolas’s professionalism, friendliness, and his ability to make the tour informative and fun.

Many guests note how easy it was to book—most doing so an average of 37 days in advance—and how the experience consistently exceeds expectations. The boat itself is described as “very pretty” and comfortable, with reviews mentioning large sundecks perfect for lounging and taking photos. The inclusion of a bottle of Prosecco and the ability to ask questions freely are recurring highlights.

While this tour is just two hours long, the carefully curated stops cover a broad spectrum of Lake Como’s most famous sights, blending natural beauty, historic villas, and celebrity landmarks. For travelers short on time but eager to see the essence of Lake Como, this cruise strikes a good balance.

Considerations

The main limitation is the duration — two hours is brief, and if you’re after an in-depth exploration or a more relaxed pace, you might want to look for longer tours. Also, weather can impact the experience, as it’s reliant on good conditions; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered, making it low risk.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private cruise is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a luxurious, personalized way to explore Lake Como. It’s perfect if you love scenic views, villa spotting, and a touch of celebrity culture, all with the ease of a guided boat ride. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate quality over quantity — a swift, elegant overview that captures the lake’s essence.

Travelers who value good guide interaction and a relaxed, fun atmosphere will find this tour particularly enjoyable. If you’re seeking a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience with a friendly captain who knows the ins and outs of Lake Como, this cruise will deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, many reviews mention taking babies and kids along, and the experience is family-friendly, with a relaxed pace and scenic stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick yet comprehensive lake view.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the private boat, guide service, and a bottle of frozen Prosecco. Most reviews highlight the quality and enjoyment of the drinks.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
This specific tour follows a set itinerary, but the guide may be able to answer questions or share additional insights during the trip.

What are the meeting points?
The tour starts at Lungo Lario Trieste, 28, in Como, a convenient location accessible by public transportation.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 37 days ahead is typical, but availability can vary.

What if I want to extend the experience?
For longer explorations or more stops, consider other tours offered by Dade Lake Como or similar providers.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Nicolas for being charismatic, informative, and attentive, making the experience more engaging.

To sum it up, this private Lake Como cruise offers a beautifully balanced experience of luxurious comfort, stunning scenery, and personalized storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but memorable glimpse of the lake’s most famous sights, with the added bonus of an amiable guide and a celebratory drink. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a scenic escape, this tour provides a classy, enjoyable way to see Lake Como from the water. If you cherish intimacy, scenic beauty, and a touch of elegance, this cruise is a terrific choice.