4 Hour Private and Guided Cruise on Lake Como by Mostes motorboat

If you’re dreaming of gliding across Lake Como, soaking in iconic villas, charming villages, and breathtaking views, then a private boat tour might be just what you need. We’ve looked into a well-reviewed 4-hour guided cruise offered by Mostes motorboat, and from what we see, it’s a chance to enjoy the lake’s highlights with a knowledgeable captain at your side. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a relaxed day on the water, this experience seems to tick a lot of boxes.

What really caught our eye about this tour is how it combines personalized guiding with access to some of the most famous and scenic spots around Lake Como. Plus, the boat itself — the Pegaso 22 — looks both elegant and practical, with a quiet, powerful engine and a comfy sundeck. On the flip side, it’s not the cheapest option out there, so it’s worth thinking about whether it offers enough value based on what you want from your Lake Como visit. If you’re after a private, flexible, and scenic experience, this could be a great pick.

This tour is ideal for those who want an intimate, tailored exploration of Lake Como, especially if you appreciate a guide who can share stories, answer questions, and keep things relaxed. It’s most suited to groups of up to five — perfect for families, small friends’ trips, or couples wanting privacy. Just keep in mind that you should book about 13 days in advance on average, so a bit of planning will help secure your spot.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Expert Guide: Luca, the captain, is praised for his knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the trip informative and fun.
• Stunning Itinerary: The cruise hits many of Lake Como’s most famous sights, from villas to villages to islands.
• Comfort and Style: The Pegaso 22 motorboat offers a sleek, smooth ride with a sunbathing deck.
• Flexible Duration: Four hours allows for a relaxed pace and multiple stops.
• Great for Visuals & Stories: The route includes Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi, George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, and Bellagio.

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Como Private Boat Tour

If you’re considering a private boat trip on Lake Como, it helps to understand what the experience really offers. From the high-quality boat to the carefully curated itinerary, every detail is designed to maximize your enjoyment while providing insight into the area’s most famous sights.

The Boat: Elegance Meets Functionality

The tour utilizes the Pegaso 22, shaped by the experienced A.Mostes shipyard, a family business dating back to 1913. This boat size — just 7 meters long — strikes a nice balance between intimacy and space. It’s equipped with a powerful 260 Hp engine, which is also notably silent, meaning your sightseeing isn’t interrupted by loud motor noise. The sundeck on board invites you to relax and take in the views, making it perfect for lounging or just soaking up the sun.

The Captain: A Passionate Guide with Local Knowledge

Luca, the captain, is described as both capable and personable. His love for nature and fishing shines through as he shares stories about the villas, villages, and history of Lake Como. Several reviews emphasize his friendly attitude and language skills, which include Italian, English, and French, making the tour accessible for international visitors. A good guide can turn a boat ride into a lively storytelling session, and based on reviews, Luca delivers in spades.

The Itinerary: A Tour of the Lake’s Highlights

Starting from Como’s pier, the tour sets sail with an energetic plan that covers a broad stretch of the lake. Here’s an overview of what you might experience:

• Villa Olmo: An elegant villa owned by the municipality, often hosting exhibitions and events like the Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in 2019. It’s a favorite sight for its grandeur and history.
• Tavernola and Cernobbio: Passing these charming towns, you’ll see villas like Villa Erba and the luxury Hotel Villa d’Este, both notable for their opulence and history — the latter mentioned by Obama and George Clooney’s families.
• Villa le Fontanelle & Punta Pizzo: You’ll glimpse the property once owned by Gianni Versace, featuring an octagonal church that can be rented for private weddings at a hefty price.
• Laglio & George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra: The star-studded villa is a highlight, and many visitors enjoy waving at the famous residence.
• Isola Comacina & Villages: Passing the small island, you’ll see local villages like Brienno and Argegno, with their historic caves and ancient bridges.
• Villa del Balbianello & Gardens of Bellagio: Known for its fantastic gardens and as a filming location, this is often the most photographed stop.
• Bellagio: The “Pearl of the Lake” with its elegant square and lush gardens.
• Upper Lake & Varenna: The route then takes you to Varenna’s picturesque harbor, with the opportunity for a swim and a break.
• San Siro & Villa Gaeta: The famous villa featured in James Bond’s “Casino Royale” adds a dash of Hollywood glamour.
• Menaggio & Nesso: The lovely town of Menaggio offers great views, and the Orrido di Nesso provides dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
• Villa Pliniana & Grand Hotels: The tour continues past legendary villas, including Villa Pliniana, famed for ghost stories, and the recently renovated Grand Hotel “Il Sereno.”

The Experience: What Makes It Special

According to reviews, many travelers appreciated the feeling of being on a luxurious yet cozy boat that offers both comfort and access to exclusive sights. The boat’s size allows for a personal touch, and the captain’s commentary elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to an informative journey.

The route also includes a chance to stop for snacks and swimming in one of Lake Como’s clearest spots, adding a bit of versatility to the trip. The entire cruise is about 4 hours, which feels like enough time to see many highlights without rushing.

Price and Value

At around $1,330 for a group of up to five, this tour isn’t cheap. However, considering the private aspect, the personalized guidance, and access to prime locations, many would say it’s a worthwhile splurge. Several reviews praised the service, with travelers describing it as “very good” and “amazing,” citing the captain’s friendliness and knowledgeable commentary as key strengths.

What Could Be Better?

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent. If the weather turns bad, you might need to reschedule or face a cancellation with a full refund. Also, the price makes this more suitable for those looking for an intimate, luxury experience rather than a casual or budget-friendly outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private cruise is perfect for small groups wanting a relaxed, customized exploration of Lake Como. It suits travelers who value comfort, scenic beauty, and a guide who can enrich the experience with stories and insights. It’s especially good if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful way to see the lake without the crowds.

Final Thoughts

A 4-hour private boat tour on Lake Como offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural sights, and personalized service. You’ll get to see iconic villas, picturesque villages, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two. The knowledgeable captain, Luca, is clearly passionate about sharing his love for the lake, which adds a genuine touch to the experience.

While it’s on the pricier side, many reviews point to the quality of the trip — from the comfort of the boat to the richness of the sights and stories shared. If you’re after a tailored, scenic, and comfortable way to discover Lake Como, this tour has a lot to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized journey.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to see many highlights without feeling rushed.

How many people can join?
The tour is priced for up to five people, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, the guide and captain services, and the route as described. Extras like food or drinks are not included but may be arranged separately.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are possible. You can get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, small groups with children could enjoy the trip, especially if they’re comfortable on boats. Just keep in mind the boat’s size and the duration.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 13 days in advance on average, to secure your preferred date and time.