1H Private Cruise on a beautiful wooden speedboat on Lake Como

Introducing Our Review of the 1H Private Cruise on Lake Como

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Lake Como from the water without spending hours or breaking the bank, this private wooden speedboat tour could be just what you’re after. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact ride, the reviews and details paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for those who want a peaceful, scenic cruise with just your group, with the chance to see iconic villas and lakeside sights in a relaxed setting.

What really catches our eye are the intimate vibe of a private tour and the stunning views of lakeside villas and George Clooney’s favorite spots. Plus, the boat itself, a traditional Italian wooden gozzo, offers a charming and comfortable way to explore. However, one thing to keep in mind is that at just an hour long, this is a quick peek rather than an in-depth exploration—so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you’ll want to consider other options.

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or families looking for a taste of Lake Como in a peaceful setting. If you enjoy scenic water views, love a touch of Italian style, and appreciate a few relaxing moments with prosecco, then this cruise might suit you well. Just be prepared for the brevity and the fact that it’s tailored more for relaxation and sightseeing than a full-day tour.

Key Points

• Intimate private experience with up to 7 guests ensures a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning lakeside views and villas provide picture-perfect moments.
• Comfortable wooden gozzo boat with a sun deck and shaded area makes for a cozy ride.
• Quick but scenic itinerary covers major sights like Villa Olmo, Cernobbio, and George Clooney’s Laglio.
• Includes a glass of prosecco or soft drink, adding a touch of indulgence.
• Limited duration (1 hour) means it’s best for a quick scenic escape rather than a full exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the public pier of Sant’Agostino in Como, right in front of the “Como Lago” train station. This makes it easy to access, whether you’re arriving by train, car, or bus. The meeting point’s central location means you can start your adventure without much fuss, and the fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not stuck with strangers—a real plus if you’re looking for a more personalized outing.

The Boat: A Classic Italian Gozzo

The vessel used here is a traditional Italian wooden boat, called a gozzo. We love the character it adds—something you wouldn’t get on a modern speedboat. It’s spacious enough for 7 people, with a large front sundeck perfect for lounging and taking in the scenery. During the hottest hours, there’s an awning to provide shade, making the ride comfortable even under the sun.

The Itinerary: A Whirlwind Tour of Lake Como’s Highlights

The route is quite thoughtfully planned, offering a series of quick stops that showcase some of Lake Como’s most iconic sights:

• Life Electric by Daniel Libeskind: We’re told it’s a 2015 piece, and while just 5 minutes are allocated here, it’s a nice way to see a modern architectural touch on the lake. The stop is free—no admission fee—so it’s more about the view than the tour.

• Villa Olmo: Passing the iconic villa from the water gives you a sense of its grandeur. Again, a 5-minute glance, but enough to appreciate the villa’s grandeur from afar. No entrance fee, but definitely a notable sight.

• Cernobbio: Known for Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, this stretch offers a glimpse of lakeside luxury. The 5-minute stop provides a view of these famed sites from the lake, though you won’t be able to land or explore.

• Moltrasio: The mention of Versace’s former villa makes this spot interesting, and the 10-minute window is enough for some photos and to appreciate the lakeside elegance.

• Laglio: The highlight here is the chance to see George Clooney’s residence from a respectful distance. With 15 minutes, you’ll have a good amount of time to soak in the scenery and snap a few photos.

• Torno and Blevio: These charming villages, known for their luxury hotels, add European lakeside charm to your cruise. The 10-minute stop is a brief but beautiful glimpse into these picturesque spots.

• Return to Como: The cruise ends back at the starting point after about an hour, leaving you plenty of time to continue exploring the city or relax elsewhere.

What Travelers Say

The reviews reveal a mixed but generally positive picture. Several travelers appreciated the stunning views and the relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer praised the “trustworthy” service, mentioning that despite the captain’s illness and a cancellation, they experienced excellent customer care and swift refunds. Another lamented that they didn’t get to swim or enjoy drinks as advertised, highlighting the importance of managing expectations for such a short tour.

The Value for Money

At $403.34 for a group of up to 7, this cruise averages out to about $58 per person—assuming a full group. That’s not cheap, but considering it’s a private boat and includes a drink, it does offer a distinctive, personalized experience. For those who value intimacy, views, and a relaxed pace, the cost can be justified. But if you’re after a more comprehensive or active lake experience, other options might be worth exploring.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Duration and Experience

The hour-long cruise means it’s more of a scenic quick escape than an in-depth exploration. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or want a relaxed, intimate way to see the lakeside sights. Keep in mind, the stops are brief—just enough for photos and a quick look—so don’t expect to land at villas or explore the villages.

Weather and Cancellations

The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour might be canceled, with full refunds offered if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. One reviewer mentioned a cancellation due to the captain’s illness, but appreciated the quick refund and customer care.

Family and Accessibility

While the reviews don’t specify if children are particularly suited for this cruise, with a small boat and calm water, it could be a family-friendly outing. However, the boat’s open design and quick stops mean parents should still consider safety for young children.

Booking and Planning

Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, which indicates steady interest. The mobile ticket makes it simple to organize, and the central starting location offers flexibility in planning your day around the cruise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private cruise appeals most to couples, small groups of friends, or families seeking a peaceful, scenic, and personalized Lake Como experience. It’s ideal if you enjoy stunning lakeside vistas, a touch of Italian tradition, and don’t need a lengthy tour. If you’re after a quick, relaxing glimpse of Lake Como’s highlights with a glass of prosecco and a charming vessel, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re craving a more active or comprehensive exploration — like land visits or longer time on the water — you might want to explore other options. Plus, keep in mind that the tour’s brief duration means it’s more about a taste than a full immersion into the lakeside culture.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the boat’s small size and calm waters suggest it could be suitable for children, but parents should supervise closely, especially on the open deck.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book 20 days in advance, but availability may vary. It’s best to book early to secure your preferred date.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat rental for about an hour, the guided route past major sights, and a glass of prosecco or soft drink.

Are there any additional costs for sights like Villa Olmo or Villa d’Este?
No, the stops at Villa Olmo and other sites are viewed from the water and do not require extra admission fees.

Is it possible to swim during this cruise?
The itinerary and boat design focus on sightseeing; swimming isn’t part of this tour, and it’s not mentioned as an option.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is best. During hot hours, the awning provides shade, but bring sun protection just in case.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 1 hour, with brief stops along the route.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before.

Wrapping It Up

This private 1-hour cruise on Lake Como offers a cozy, intimate way to see some of the most photogenic spots along the lake’s eastern shore. The boat’s traditional style adds charm, and the included drinks elevate the experience just enough to make it feel special.

It’s best suited for those who want a short but scenic escape, especially if you’re looking for privacy and comfort without the hassle of large groups. While the price might seem high for an hour, the exclusivity and focus on beautiful views make it a worthwhile splurge for many travelers.

If you’re after a relaxed, picture-perfect water trip with the chance to see iconic villas and even a glimpse of George Clooney’s lakeside home, this cruise could be a lovely addition to your Lake Como itinerary. Just remember to manage your expectations about the brevity and the focus on scenery rather than extensive exploration.

Additional Notes

This experience is part of a range of Lake Como tours offered through Viator, so if you’re interested in exploring the area further, there are longer or combined options worth checking out. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a peaceful break on the water, this private cruise provides a taste of the lakeside luxury Italy is known for.

Enjoy your trip, and here’s hoping you get a clear day to savor those stunning views!