Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper

When it comes to experiencing Lake Como, most travelers are eager to see its famous villas, charming towns, and breathtaking scenery. While many opt for bus or boat tours, a private sailing adventure offers a rare chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the lake at a relaxed pace. We’ve looked into this particular experience, and it’s clear that it strikes a balance between luxury, intimacy, and genuine connection with the lake’s beauty.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its personal touch—a private skipper guiding only your group—plus the chance to snap incredible photos of iconic villas like Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi while sailing alongside the serene Comacina Island. Plus, the opportunity to drop anchor for a swim or just relax with snacks and drinks on board makes it stand out.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at just over $1,000 for up to 9 people—this isn’t a budget activity, but the value lies in exclusivity and the tailored experience. If you’re after a peaceful, flexible way to see Lake Como with friends, family, or partners, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Enjoy a personalized sailing experience tailored to your group’s pace and interests.
• Stunning scenery: Get prime views of villas, towns, and natural beauty from the water, away from over-touristed spots.
• Swimming and relaxation: Drop anchor for a swim or chill on the boat with music, snacks, and drinks included.
• Knowledgeable guides: Skippers like Marco and Frederico offer friendly, insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of the area.
• Good value for a private tour: The cost reflects the exclusivity and comfort, with plenty of space and amenities.
• Booking well in advance: On average, this experience is booked 82 days ahead, so plan early if you want your date secured.

What to Expect from This Lake Como Sailing Experience

This three-hour private adventure is designed for those who prefer a laid-back, intimate outing rather than a large-group tour. The departure point is in Bellagio, a perfect starting spot to explore the lake’s most photogenic corners.

Having a private skipper means you’re in good hands—someone who knows the waters intimately and is eager to share interesting tidbits about the villas and natural surroundings. Many reviews highlight the skipper’s friendliness and knowledge, making the trip not just scenic but also engaging.

The boat itself is elegant, spacious, and comfortable—an 11.5-meter vessel that can accommodate up to 9 people comfortably. It’s large enough for privacy but cozy enough to feel like a special outing with friends. The boat’s amenities include snacks, soft and alcoholic drinks (prosecco being a highlight), and cozy blankets for chillier days.

The Itinerary In-Depth

While the tour is flexible, the main highlights include a stop at Villa del Balbianello, renowned for its historic charm and appearances in movies like James Bond’s “Casino Royale,” and Villa Melzi, famous for its lush gardens and lakeside views. From the water, you’ll get a perspective that’s impossible from land—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Your skipper will guide you past Villa Carlotta, another stunning estate with impressive gardens, and alongside Comacina Island, a little gem with a storied past. These villas and islands aren’t just pretty sights—they’re part of Lake Como’s allure, and viewing them from the water offers a different, often more relaxed perspective.

The anchor points are generally chosen to allow for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Many reviews praise the ability to jump into the lake, especially on hot days, and to just float and admire the panoramic views.

The crew is attentive—many reviewers mention the quality of snacks and drinks—and the overall vibe is one of comfort and leisure. The boat is equipped with blankets and pillows for extra coziness, making even a chilly day enjoyable.

Practical Details and Considerations

Given the price point of around $1,032, this experience offers a lot of value for those wanting exclusivity. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or even couples celebrating a special occasion. The three-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see several sights and enjoy swimming, but not so long as to become tiring.

The meeting point is in Bellagio, within walking distance from public transportation, which is convenient for most travelers. Life jackets are available, including for children, so the experience is accessible for families with kids, although no specific age restrictions are mentioned.

The experience is most suitable for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings. While weather can impact the trip—bad weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation—you’re typically offered a full refund or a new date if conditions aren’t suitable.

What Reviews Tell Us

The overwhelmingly positive feedback shows this is a well-loved experience. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly skippers, with comments like “Marco was a fantastic host” and “Frederico was an excellent mix of educational, entertaining, and funny.” The views of villas from the water are described as “breathtaking,” and many mention how special it feels to avoid the crowds on land.

One review from a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary highlights the thoughtful service—they even received a cake to mark the occasion. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, reviews note that the crew’s attention to comfort (blankets, covers) makes the trip enjoyable.

A few reviewers mention that once the wind is low, the boat may motor rather than sail, but they still enjoyed the scenery and the company. The snacks and drinks are consistently praised, with many recommending bringing extra Prosecco or sandwiches if you want more than what’s provided.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy personalized experiences and want to see Lake Como from a unique vantage point, this private sailing trip is a solid choice. It’s perfect for groups who value comfort, good company, and scenic beauty. It’s not the best pick if you’re looking for a high-intensity, fast-paced adventure, but rather a peaceful, memorable cruise.

For those celebrating special occasions—anniversaries, birthdays—or simply wanting a luxurious and relaxed way to enjoy the lake with friends or family, this tour hits the right notes. Keep in mind that with the current pricing, it’s better suited for those who see value in exclusivity and comfort over a more economical, crowded boat tour.

Final Thoughts

This Lake Como private sailing with a knowledgeable skipper offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and personal service. The boat’s comfort, the stunning villa views, and the chance to swim in the lake set the experience apart from generic group tours. The positive reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, friendly service that genuinely makes visitors feel pampered.

While the price tag isn’t cheap, many reviewers feel it’s justified by the intimacy and quality of the experience. If you’re after a calm, scenic, and flexible way to explore Lake Como, with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to unwind, this is a strong contender.

In short, this experience is best for travelers who cherish comfort, personalized service, and the stunning vistas of Lake Como. It’s an excellent way to add a memorable, peaceful chapter to your trip, whether celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a quiet moment of beauty.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately three hours, which gives enough time to enjoy the scenery, swim, and relax without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers the boat, a private skipper, snacks, and drinks—both soft and alcoholic options like prosecco.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, there’s free cancellation, and if the weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are life jackets provided? Yes, life jackets are available for all guests, including children.

Is this suitable for families with kids? The tour is accessible and includes life jackets for children, making it manageable for families, but check the age of children if you have very young ones.

Can I bring extra drinks or food? Many reviews suggest bringing additional prosecco or sandwiches if you want more than what is provided.

What are the meeting logistics? The meeting point is in Bellagio at Via san Biagio 1, just a short walk from public transportation.

Is it worth the price? If you value exclusivity, comfort, and a scenic, personalized experience, many reviews say yes. It’s a high-end way to enjoy Lake Como.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably, and consider bringing layers or blankets if it’s chilly—blankets are provided on the boat.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a calm, scenic escape, this private sailing experience on Lake Como offers a memorable way to soak in the lake’s beauty.