Lake Como is a favorite among travelers for its stunning lakeside villas, dramatic mountain backdrops, and charming towns. What better way to experience this iconic landscape than from the water? Whether you want a quick private cruise, a guided group tour, or an adventurous speedboat ride, Lake Como offers something for every type of traveler. We especially like the From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise for its seamless blend of scenery, Swiss border crossing, and luxury experience—plus it includes free WiFi on board for snapping photos. For those seeking a deeper dive into the region’s beauty, the Private Cruise on Lake Como with Speedboat offers a high-energy, intimate adventure, especially if you want to combine it with a swim or a prosecco toast.
If you’re torn between a guided group experience and the freedom of renting your own boat, the list below covers all the options. From scenic day trips to private yacht charters, you’ll find detailed descriptions to help you pick the perfect Lake Como boat adventure.
1. From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise
At number 1, this all-day tour combines a scenic drive, a luxury boat cruise, and a quick border crossing into Switzerland. Starting from Milan, the tour hits Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, giving you a taste of Italy and Switzerland in one go. The boat cruise itself is exclusive, on a luxury vessel, with free WiFi available on both bus and boat. You’ll see Bellagio from a new perspective, enjoy Swiss chocolate in Lugano, and learn about the region from a knowledgeable local team. The itinerary includes stops for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch, with enough free time to explore on your own. Guests praise the tour’s well-organized schedule and friendly guides, making it a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a full-day adventure that covers multiple countries, luxurious cruising, and iconic sights. Best suited for travelers who want convenience and a blend of scenery and culture.
2. From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train
At number 2, this longer 13-hour tour transports you from Milan to Swiss alpine splendor. It features a private boat cruise on Lake Como, a scenic drive over the Maloja Pass to St. Moritz, and a ride on the famous Bernina Red Train—one of the most stunning rail routes in the world. The boat trip offers serene views of lakeside villas, while the train takes you through snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Guests love the variety, especially the opportunity to see both Lake Como and Swiss Alps in one day. The included free time in St. Moritz allows for some leisurely shopping or sightseeing, making this ideal for those seeking a full-day, multi-country experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers eager to combine lakeside beauty with mountain scenery and scenic train rides. Suitable for those comfortable with longer days and multi-modal travel.
3. From Milan: Lake Como by Private Boat, Bellagio & Lugano
This tour ranks third for its flexibility and intimacy. It offers a private boat cruise on Lake Como, with stops in Bellagio and Lugano, all included in a full-day package. The cruise itself is about 45 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of villas and the surrounding mountains. After exploring Bellagio’s charming streets and shops, you’ll cross into Switzerland to visit Lugano, enjoying lakeside walks and Swiss chocolates. The tour provides a smooth, stress-free journey from Milan with plenty of free time in each location for your own adventures. Guests appreciate the private atmosphere and the chance to customize the experience with a private guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups wanting privacy, flexibility, and a relaxed pace, with the option to personalize your day on the water.
4. Private Tour by Classic Wooden Boat on Lake Como 6 pax
Number 4 is a luxurious private experience aboard a beautifully restored Venetian-style wooden boat, perfect for up to six people. This tour offers a 4-hour cruise with visits to Villa Olmo, Villa Erba, and the lakeside Cernobbio, all from the comfort of an elegant vessel. With interiors made of mahogany and leather, the boat exudes classic style, and your captain will share stories about the villas and local lore. While the tour experienced slight delays due to mechanical issues, the hosts’ communication was good, and many passengers find the intimacy and personalized service well worth it. This experience suits travelers seeking a luxury private ride with a focus on aesthetics and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups who want a stylish, private cruise with a knowledgeable guide. Slightly more expensive, but unmatched in charm and privacy.
5. Private Cruise on Lake Como with Speedboat from 1H to 4H
Ranked fifth, this speedboat tour offers up to four hours of fun and freedom. Led by expert captains Marco and Stefano, the trip visits villas like Villa Olmo, George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra in Laglio, and other lakeside highlights. Guests rave about the informative narration and the chance to stop for a swim or enjoy a glass of prosecco on deck. The boat’s speed allows you to cover more ground and see multiple villas and villages in a shorter time, making it ideal for those who want a dynamic, active experience. The tour is highly rated for its friendly guides and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a fast-paced, private adventure with options to swim and relax on the water.
6. 2 hours Boat Rental Lake Como
Number 6 is a DIY boat rental that puts you in control for two hours. No license needed, and the boat is stable and easy to operate. Starting from Vassena, you can explore at your own pace, visiting Bellagio, Lenno, Menaggio, and Varenna. Many users love the freedom to create their own itinerary, stop for a swim, or just soak up the scenery without a tour guide. It’s especially suited for families or groups who want to explore with flexibility and independence. The rental is affordable for the experience and offers excellent value, especially for those comfortable with navigating on their own.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers who prefer DIY exploration over guided tours.
7. Classic boat tour on Lake Como
This one-hour cruise ranks seventh, providing a quick but immersive experience. It covers key villas like Villa Balbianello and Villa Erba, with excellent narration from your captain. The boat is well-rated, with WiFi onboard for sharing your stunning shots instantly. Guests appreciate the informative guide and the ability to see iconic sights in a short time. This tour offers a fun, relaxed introduction to Lake Como without a big time commitment, making it perfect for day-trippers or those with tight schedules.
Bottom Line: Great for a brief, scenic overview of Lake Como’s most famous villas and landscapes.
8. From 1H to 4H License Free Boat Rental 40cv Lake Como
Number 8 is a flexible self-driven rental with boats up to 40 horsepower. You can rent for one to four hours, with petrol included. The boats are suitable for exploring at your own pace, visiting lakeside villages, or stopping for a dip. Many reviewers highlight its ease of use, saying it’s perfect for first-timers, and the value for money is strong at this price point. It suits those who want a more hands-on experience and control over their own itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for confident boaters or those wanting to explore freely with a simple rental.
9. 2 Hour Private and Guided Cruise to Lake Como Mostes motorboat
Number 9 combines luxury and local insight with a 2-hour private cruise aboard a classic motorboat. This vessel, built by a renowned shipyard, offers a quiet, elegant ride around Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and other lakeside sights. The captain, Andrias, is praised for his knowledge and friendly demeanor, providing a personalized experience that feels both relaxing and informative. The boat’s size and speed make it easy to cover many highlights in a short time, and the inclusion of prosecco adds a celebratory touch.
Bottom Line: Especially suited for small groups who want a premium, private experience with in-depth commentary.
10. Private Boat Tour on Lake Como
This private 1-hour tour is perfect for a quick, tailored experience. It departs from Como and can be customized, with stops at Villa Olmo, Villa Erba, and George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra. The boat is elegant, and the captain will adapt the route to your interests, making it a flexible and intimate option. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the convenience of pre-booking, which saves time and hassle.
Bottom Line: Great for those short on time but wanting a personalized, private water experience.
11. 1 Hour Private and Guided Cruise to Lake Como Mostes motorboat
For a quick taste, this one-hour private cruise features expert narration on the key villas and landmarks. The boat, crafted by the historic Mostes shipyard, is both stylish and comfortable. The captain, Cristina or Marco, will share stories about Lake Como’s most celebrated villas and hidden corners, making it ideal for a crash course on the area’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a brief, personalized introduction to Lake Como.
12. Lugano, Bellagio Experience from Como with Enchanting Boat Cruise
Ranking 12th, this day trip combines a ferry ride across Lake Como with visits to Lugano in Switzerland and Bellagio in Italy. The tour includes free time in each location, with a focus on sampling Swiss chocolate and exploring lakeside streets. The boat cruise offers a different perspective of the lakes and is highly rated for its ease of travel and scenic views. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to experience both lakes in one day without booking multiple tours.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a mixed cultural and scenic day trip with minimal fuss.
13. Lake Como Private Boat Tour
This luxury private tour offers a customized experience on a private yacht with a dedicated skipper. It includes views of Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and the island of Comacina, plus waterfalls and secret spots inaccessible by land. Many reviews highlight the personalized attention and the flexibility to adapt the route. It’s suited for special occasions or travelers who want the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples celebrating a special event, looking for exclusivity and bespoke service.
14. Private Boat Tour on Lake Como from Bellagio
Starting from Bellagio, this one-hour private tour showcases the most scenic parts of the lake, including villas and picturesque villages. The captain provides local stories and custom routes, perfect for a quick but rich experience. It’s a great way to skip the crowds and enjoy the luxury of private cruising with personalized commentary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers staying in Bellagio wanting a private, tailored experience without a long commitment.
15. Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper
Finally, this sailing adventure with a private skipper offers a relaxed, elegant way to see Lake Como’s villas and mountain views. The 11.5m boat is perfect for a quiet escape along the coast, with stops for swimming in the lake. The crew provides snacks and drinks, making it a luxury but laid-back experience for up to nine people.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a peaceful, authentic sailing experience with the option to swim and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace.
How to Choose the Right Lake Como Boat Tour
When deciding which boat tour is best, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a comprehensive experience crossing the border into Switzerland, the From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise offers exceptional value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a full-day adventure. If you prefer privacy and luxury, the Private Tour by Classic Wooden Boat or the Lake Como Private Boat Tour might suit you better. For independent explorers, the 2 hours Boat Rental Lake Como provides the freedom to craft your own route and stop for swims.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season (spring through early fall). Consider the length of the tour—a 1-hour cruise is quick but packed with highlights, while longer excursions like the Bernina Red Train combo deliver a full-day immersion. For those with limited time, a private speedboat can pack in many sights in a short period, whereas a self-driven boat gives you flexibility on the water.
Lake Como’s boat tours vary from luxury private yachts to lively speedboats and self-guided rentals. For most travelers, the best choice balances your available time and desired experience. Whether you want to sip prosecco on a classic boat, explore Swiss towns, or zoom around on your own, there’s an option that fits. Don’t forget to book early, especially for popular dates, and enjoy your time on this stunning Italian lake.
Ready to set sail? Start planning your Lake Como adventure today and make sure to choose a tour that matches your style—whether that’s a quick private cruise or a full-day exploration.
