2 Hours Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como 10 pax

If you’re dreaming of gliding across Lake Como in a beautifully restored wooden boat, this private 2-hour tour could be just what you’re looking for. Offering a blend of luxury, intimate views, and a chance to see some of the lake’s most famous sights, this experience promises an elegant way to soak in the scenery. While it’s not a full-blown sightseeing extravaganza, it hits the sweet spot for those who want a relaxed, personal journey on the water.

What really appeals here is the chance to enjoy the lake in a classic Venetian-style vessel that’s been completely renovated in 2021. The boat itself is a highlight, with its polished wood and leather interior, plus the capacity for up to 11 guests — perfect for small groups or a special celebration. Plus, the flexibility of the private tour means you can request specific stops or simply relax and take in the views without rushing.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the experience’s limited commentary and value. If you’re expecting a highly informative or guided tour, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s more about the scenery, the boat, and the exclusivity. If you’re after a luxurious, peaceful ride with breathtaking vistas, this could be a great match — especially for couples, friends, or small groups wanting an upscale lake experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, privacy, and scenic splendor. It’s great for those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone wanting a memorable way to see Lake Como without the crowds. Just keep in mind that the price reflects the exclusivity and the boat’s luxury features, so it’s best suited for those willing to invest in a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: The boat’s elegant wooden and leather interior makes for a sophisticated experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: The route covers key lakeside sights, villas, and scenic spots, with room for customization.
• Intimate Experience: Private tours mean your group gets undivided attention, perfect for special moments.
• Limited Commentary: Expect mostly scenery with minimal guided narration, so bring your own curiosity.
• Cost vs. Value: At nearly $1,000 for two hours, this is a premium experience, best for those valuing privacy and elegance.
• Great for Special Occasions: Ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just treating yourself.

A Closer Look at the 2-Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish — based on what others have experienced and the details provided.

The Boat and Its Setting

The Navicella del Lario is a beautifully renovated, traditional Venetian-style boat. Fully refurbished in 2021, it blends classic charm with modern comfort. Its sleek wooden finish, leather accents, and sun awnings make it both stylish and practical, especially if the weather turns. Onboard, you’ll find fresh water and other drinks, so you can stay refreshed as you cruise.

This vessel is suitable for groups of up to 11, making it perfect for small gatherings or intimate moments. The boat’s size allows for comfortable sightseeing, without feeling crowded. The fact that it’s a private experience means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers — just your friends, family, or colleagues.

Departure and Meeting Point

The tour kicks off at the Lungo Lario Trieste jetty in Como, a convenient spot near the city center. The meeting process is straightforward, and since it’s a private tour, you can coordinate pickup or arrival timing with ease. The activity concludes back at the starting point, so no need to worry about logistics.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

The route is crafted to give a well-rounded view of Lake Como, passing some of the most famous villas and scenic spots. Here’s a breakdown:

• Lake Como Downtown: The journey begins here, giving you a sense of the lake’s vibrant life and water traffic.
• Life Electric: Passing by Daniel Libeskind’s modern art installation, offering a touch of contemporary art against the landscape.
• Villa Olmo: A stunning neoclassical villa built by the Odescalchi family, admired for its impressive façade and lush gardens.
• Cernobbio: Often called the “Paris of the Lario,” this town is known for its luxury villas and stylish hotels.
• Villa Erba: Built between 1894 and 1898, it was owned by a major pharmaceutical industrialist. Its historic architecture is worth noting.
• Moltrasio: Passing through this charming village, you’ll see Villa Olenadra, George Clooney’s residence at Villa Oleandra.
• Laglio: The site of Villa Oleandra, Clooney’s lakeside retreat, offers glamorous views of the lake.
• Isola Comacina: The only island in the lake, famous for fireworks that recall a historic fire — a particularly picturesque spot.
• Return to Como: The cruise finishes with views of villas along the east shore, wrapping up your lake adventure.

What You Might Expect During the Tour

While the scenery is the star, don’t expect a detailed guided commentary. One reviewer pointed out that there was “very little commentary except for a handful of comments on key properties,” which suggests you might want to bring a guidebook or be prepared to do some sightseeing on your own. The captain is there to ensure safety and comfort but isn’t necessarily a detailed storyteller.

The boat includes sun canopies, so if the sun is strong, you can stay shaded. If the weather turns bad, the boat is equipped with covers, allowing the experience to continue comfortably. Onboard, there’s always fresh water and a selection of drinks, so staying hydrated is simple.

The Experience and the Reviews

People who have taken this tour describe it as “amazing,” “impressive,” and “beautiful,” especially praising the views and the boat itself. One reviewer said, “Very descriptive and attentive, would highly recommend,” which suggests the experience can be quite memorable, especially if you appreciate scenery over detailed narration.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One user felt it wasn’t value for money, citing limited commentary and the fact that it’s more of a boat ride than an in-depth tour. They pointed out that the experience lacked substantial guided insights, which could matter to those wanting an educational component.

Considering the Cost

At around $965.76 for the entire boat, it’s definitely on the higher end. But keep in mind, this price covers exclusive use of a luxurious vessel for two hours. If you’re traveling with a group of up to 10, it breaks down to roughly $97 per person — comparable to a fancy dinner or a short private tour elsewhere. For many, the value lies in the exclusivity, comfort, and scenery rather than extensive guided commentary.

Booking and Flexibility

The tour can be booked about two weeks in advance on average, making it a good option if you’re planning ahead. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which offers some peace of mind. One thing to note: the experience is weather-dependent, so if the forecast looks poor, it might be worth rescheduling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private wooden boat cruise is perfect for those who prioritize comfort, style, and exclusivity. It suits couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends wanting to enjoy the lake together, or travelers celebrating a special occasion. If you’re after a quiet, scenic ride with minimal fuss and more focus on the views, this will likely hit the mark.

It’s less suitable for travelers looking for a comprehensive, heavily narrated tour or those on a tight budget. Since the experience is largely scenic with limited commentary, it’s best for those who already have some knowledge of Lake Como or are happy exploring independently after the cruise.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a luxurious, personalized way to experience Lake Como, this private wooden boat tour offers an elegant and intimate option. The boat itself is a highlight, providing a classic aesthetic paired with modern comforts, and the route covers many of the lake’s iconic sights. While the experience lacks detailed narration, the focus on scenery and privacy makes it a memorable, relaxing outing.

It’s best suited for those willing to invest in a high-end experience and who value exclusivity over guided storytelling. The views of villas, the scenic beauty of the lake, and the stylish vessel combine to create a unique way to enjoy Lake Como’s charm.

For anyone looking for a peaceful, private cruise combined with stunning vistas and a touch of luxury, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to check the weather and be prepared for a serene, scenic ride—rather than an in-depth guided tour.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour with commentary?
No, the tour offers limited commentary, mainly focusing on scenery. You might find it more about the views and relaxing on the boat rather than detailed historical insights.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private use of the boat, with sun awnings, covers for bad weather, and refreshments like fresh water and other drinks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the route is predefined, private tours typically allow some flexibility. You can request specific stops or focus on particular sights if arranged in advance.

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 11 guests, making it ideal for small groups or family outings.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour departs from Lungo Lario Trieste in Como, a central and accessible location.

Is the experience suitable for children?
There’s no specific mention of children, but the boat’s size and private nature make it suitable for families if children are comfortable on boats.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The boat has covers and sun awnings; if weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled with full refund if within the cancellation window.

In the end, this Lake Como private boat ride is more about experiencing the lake in style than about a detailed educational tour. If you love scenic cruising and want to indulge in a bit of luxury, it’s worth considering.