Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper

Imagine gliding silently across the shimmering waters of Lake Como, away from the busy shores and busy streets. That’s exactly what this private sailing tour offers — a peaceful, personalized escape on an elegant boat with a skilled skipper. With reviews consistently praising its atmosphere, scenery, and guides, it’s clear this experience hits the sweet spot for many travelers.

What we love most? The chance to see Lake Como’s iconic villas from a unique vantage point while enjoying the tranquil pace of sailing. A big plus is the flexibility of a private tour — no rushing, no crowded boat groups, just your own crew soaking up the views. The only consideration? It’s about 3 hours, so if you’re craving a longer adventure or want to explore more distant spots, you might need to book extra time or look for additional options.

This excursion is perfect for those who want a relaxing yet visually stunning way to experience Como — especially if you’re keen on a cozy, intimate setting with drinks, snacks, and a knowledgeable captain. It’s also highly suitable for travelers who appreciate a touch of luxury combined with authentic Italian scenery. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a peaceful day on the lake, this sailing experience delivers.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, allowing for a relaxed, tailor-made experience.
• Stunning Views: See famous villas like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Villa Carlotta from the water.
• Relaxing Pace: Glide along with the sails or motor at your comfort level, with opportunities for swimming and photos.
• Inclusions: Drinks, snacks, and the chance to enjoy Italian products while soaking in the scenery.
• Flexible Experience: Adjust stops and activities based on weather and your preferences.
• Excellent Reviews: Highly praised for knowledgeable guides, beautiful vistas, and a friendly atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Experience

Setting Sail from Bellagio

Starting at Via san Biagio 1 in Bellagio, the journey begins with a sense of calm and anticipation. The boat itself is described as elegant and comfortable — an 11.5m long vessel that comfortably accommodates up to nine people. The fact that most travelers book their spot about 82 days in advance shows how popular and well-regarded this experience is.

From the dock, you’ll head out onto Lake Como, with the option to cruise past some of the most photographed villas on the lake. The boat’s size and comfort, as praised by reviewers, mean you can relax fully while enjoying the sights or chatting with your skipper. Cristina, the owner, and her team are well-organized, and they are clear about confirming details, especially if weather conditions look uncertain.

The Itinerary: Villas, Islands, and Water

The main highlight of this 3-hour tour is the chance to see some of Lake Como’s most legendary villas from the water. These include Villa Melzi and Villa del Balbianello, both famous for their stunning architecture and lush gardens. Unlike busy land tours, sailing offers a vantage point that captures the villas’ grandeur without the crowds.

Many reviewers have commented on how the water-based perspective makes the scenery come alive. As one traveler noted, “From the lake, it’s the best way to appreciate its beauty,” and another added, “The boat ride was a beautiful way to see the villages and the filming locations for movies.”

The boat also passes by Comacina Island, a lesser-known gem with historical significance and peaceful coves perfect for a dip. You can expect to drop anchor here for a swim — many guests loved this part, with one reviewer saying, “Swimming from the boat amidst such stunning scenery was a highlight.”

The Atmosphere on Board

One of the biggest selling points of this trip is its relaxed, boutique feel. With drinks served on board, including prosecco, and snacks like Italian products, the experience feels both luxurious and authentic. Several reviews mentioned how Cristina kept in touch beforehand, moving the start time when rain threatened, demonstrating their keen attention to customer comfort.

Guests often comment on the skipper, Marco, whose knowledge and friendly demeanor make the journey even more memorable. Guests described him as “incredibly gracious and knowledgeable,” and many appreciated how he shared interesting stories and historical tidbits about the villas and the lake’s geography.

Weather and Flexibility

Given Lake Como’s unpredictable weather, Cristina’s ability to reschedule when necessary is crucial. Travelers noted that even in less-than-ideal weather, the experience remained enjoyable thanks to blankets, covers, and Marco’s good humor. If the weather isn’t cooperating, the tour offers the option to reschedule or receive a full refund, making it a low-risk choice.

Value and Cost

At just over $1,032 for a group of up to nine, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking a private, tailored experience. While it is a bit pricier than some group boat trips, the private setting, personalized service, and the chance to relax with drinks and snacks justify the expense. Travelers have expressed that it’s worth every penny, especially for special occasions or a memorable way to start a Lake Como visit.

Accessibility

The meeting point is on the Bellagio peninsula, about a 15-minute walk from the ferry docks, up a slight hill. The boat is suitable for most travelers, and life jackets are available, including for children. The tour is designed for most travelers, making it a versatile choice for families, couples, or friends.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is ideal if you’re looking for a serene, intimate experience on Lake Como. It suits those who want a leisurely exploration with stunning views, quality service, and some swimming and snacks thrown in. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions, like anniversaries or birthdays, or just to enjoy some downtime in a gorgeous setting.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions lead to cancellation, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, soft and alcoholic drinks, along with typical Italian snacks, are provided on board, making the journey both relaxing and delicious.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 3 hours, giving you plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the boat.

Is the tour private?
Absolutely. It’s a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring an exclusive, personalized trip.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at Via san Biagio 1 in Bellagio, a short walk from the ferry docks.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are available for children, and most travelers can participate. The relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

What if I want to see more than just villas?
The itinerary focuses on villas like Villa Melzi, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Carlotta, plus Comacina Island for swimming. If you want to customize, you should discuss this with your skipper.

How many people can join?
Up to nine guests can be accommodated comfortably on the boat, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What about the weather?
The experience is weather-dependent. Nonetheless, Cristina and her team are flexible in rescheduling or adjusting plans if needed.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing tour on Lake Como offers a rare blend of privacy, comfort, and stunning scenery. With knowledgeable guides like Marco and Cristina’s attentive organization, it’s a trusted way to see the villas and coves that make Lake Como magic. Guests consistently praise the relaxed atmosphere, the quality of service, and the unbeatable views.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, intimate way to enjoy the lake — especially if you appreciate personalized service and a touch of luxury — this experience will meet and likely exceed your expectations. It’s a fantastic choice whether celebrating a special moment or simply wanting a memorable highlight of your trip.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the combination of exclusivity, breathtaking vistas, and the chance to swim makes it highly worthwhile. Just remember to plan ahead, keep an eye on the weather, and enjoy a day of sailing that you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.