Private Boat Tour on the Lake Como

If you’re looking to experience Lake Como from a perspective few get to enjoy, a private boat tour offers an elegant, personalized way to soak in the scenery. This highly-rated experience, run by Il Medeghino, provides a 1-hour cruise (with options to extend) that promises stunning vistas, expert local narration, and the chance to relax in style. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a romantic partner, this tour is designed to give you an authentic glimpse of Lake Como’s world-famous villas and charming towns.

What we love most about this experience is how flexible the route can be—your captain can tailor the itinerary to your interests. Plus, the boat itself, a beautiful 26-foot yacht, offers a sense of luxury and comfort. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the standard tour lasts only around an hour unless you opt for additional time, which comes at an extra charge. Still, if you’re short on time but want a slice of Como’s glamour, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate intimate, high-quality service and want to create personalized memories. It’s perfect for those visiting Como for a short stay or anyone eager to see the lake’s highlights from the water—without the hassle of large tours or crowded boats.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The tour is private, with your group alone, and can be customized with the captain.
• Spectacular Views: Expect iconic villas, charming villages, and scenic highlights like Villa Olmo, Cernobbio, and George Clooney’s villa.
• Expert Guides: Captains like Alisa and Claudio are noted for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Good Value: At around $406 for up to 6 people, this offers an intimate, luxurious experience that can be shared among friends or family.
• Flexible Timing: You can choose your start time within opening hours, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
• Extra Options: Additional time on the water is available, which many reviewers wish they had booked longer for.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Convenience

Booking this private boat tour is straightforward, with confirmation received instantly. Its mobile ticket feature means no paper needed—just a quick scan on your device. The typical booking window is around 46 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among travelers who want to lock in a special experience ahead of time.

Pricing at $406.38 per group (up to 6) might seem high at first glance, but considering the intimacy, luxury, and personalized service, many find it good value. This price covers the entire boat with a dedicated captain, ensuring you avoid the crowds of larger tours and enjoy a more tailored experience.

Meeting Point and Duration

The meeting point is conveniently located at Piazza Matteotti Giacomo in Como—within easy reach by public transport or car. The tour lasts about an hour, but you can request longer sessions—reviewers mention doing 2-hour tours and wishing they had extended even further. Keep in mind, additional hours are extra, so plan accordingly if you want more time on the water.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

This is a flexible tour, often including stops at some of Lake Como’s most famous sights:

Villa Olmo: An 18th-century villa now owned by the municipality, its impressive facade and grounds make for great photos. From the water, you get a fantastic perspective that’s different from the usual land view.

Villa Erba: A 19th-century villa that once belonged to Luchino Visconti, now a film shoot location and event venue. You might recognize it from movies like Ocean’s 12.

Cernobbio and Villa d’Este: A picturesque village and a 16th-century palace turned luxury hotel. The view of the villa from the lake is postcard-perfect, and the captain often points out its elegant architecture.

Villa of Versace: A notable highlight is the villa once owned by the famed fashion dynasty, adding a touch of glamour to your cruise.

Luxurious Shoreline Villas: As you glide past the shores, you’ll see many opulent villas, including the estate of George Clooney, famous for his love of Lake Como.

Torno and Blevio: These quieter villages feature historical villas and lush parks—perfect for those looking for a blend of fame and tranquility.

George Clooney’s Villa: The star’s residence is a popular photo stop, and many guests appreciate the chance to see it from the water, adding a sense of Hollywood glamour.

Torno’s Historic Villa: Surrounded by a vast park, this villa offers a glimpse into Italy’s storied past with a touch of seclusion and beauty.

Mandarin Oriental Villa: Once home to opera singer Giuditta Pasta, this villa now hosts the famed hotel chain, blending history with modern luxury.

What Makes the Experience Special?

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Claudio and Alisa, for their friendly demeanor and local insights. One reviewer noted Alisa’s “fantastic” skills and her ability to share interesting facts about the lake’s history and villas, making the ride both educational and entertaining.

The boat itself garners many compliments—beautiful, well-maintained, and comfortable. Some reviews mention the boat’s luxury features, which turn a simple cruise into a luxurious escape. Many also liked that the captain took time to point out the best photo spots, allowing for memorable shots of the scenery.

The Value of a Private Tour

The private nature of this tour means no noisy crowds or hurried schedules—just you and your group enjoying the water at your own pace. Guests often comment on how relaxing it is to have a dedicated captain, who not only navigates the lake but also shares stories and tips, enriching the experience.

While the standard duration is one hour, some guests opt for longer trips, especially those who want to explore more or take additional dips in the lake. Many reviewers mention the benefit of being able to jump in for a swim at a good spot, which the captain can help identify.

The Experience from a Reviewer’s Perspective

One guest shared, “Marco was excellent! The boat was beautiful and we had perfect weather. Highly recommend seeing Como from the water.” Another mentioned how the “luxurious boat and local knowledge made it a memorable experience,” echoing the sentiment that this is more than just a boat ride—it’s a tailored, high-end outing.

The flexibility in timing and route makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those seeking a bespoke experience. Several reviews highlight how captains like Claudio and Elisa are attentive and accommodating, with many saying they’d happily book again or recommend it to friends.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the tour is weather-dependent, a rainy day might mean rescheduling or a full refund if canceled with 24 hours’ notice. Most travelers praise the smooth cancellation process, which offers peace of mind when planning.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat experience is best suited for travelers seeking intimacy, comfort, and a personal touch. It’s ideal for couples wanting a romantic outing, families looking to explore the lake comfortably, or groups of friends eager to enjoy a memorable day in style. If you love history, photography, or simply want to see Lake Como from a different angle, you’ll find this tour both practical and delightful.

Final Thoughts

This Lake Como boat tour provides a rare mix of luxury, flexibility, and insider knowledge. For around $400, you get a private vessel, a knowledgeable captain, and access to some of the most stunning villas and villages in the region—all in just about an hour, with options to extend.

While the price may seem on the higher side, the personalized service and exquisite views make it a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge. The positive reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Claudio and Alisa, as well as the stunning scenery that keeps visitors coming back.

If you prefer a quieter, more intimate way to see Lake Como and have the flexibility to customize your route, this tour is an excellent choice. Just be sure to book in advance—this experience is popular and often booked 46 days ahead!

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized experience without sharing the boat with strangers.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour is approximately one hour, but longer sessions are available for an additional fee. Many guests wish they had booked extra time.

Can I customize my route?
Absolutely. The captain can tailor the itinerary based on your interests, whether you want to focus on villas, villages, or swimming spots.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Piazza Matteotti Giacomo in Como, a central location easy to access by public transport or car.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, the captain’s services, and standard amenities. Extra time or specific stops may incur additional charges.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions with 24 hours’ notice, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for families, though it’s best to check if traveling with young children.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, tours are booked around 46 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

This private Lake Como boat tour offers a thoughtful, luxurious way to see Italy’s most famous lake. With expert guides, stunning scenery, and the flexibility to customize, it’s a memorable experience tailored to your interests—and a fantastic way to elevate your trip to Lake Como.