If you’re dreaming of experiencing Lake Como from a fresh perspective, this private boat tour with open bar might just be what you’re looking for. It’s designed for small groups—up to seven people—and offers a chance to see the lake’s most iconic villas, charming villages, and hidden corners without the crowds. While it’s not a full-day adventure, those two hours on the water pack in enough beauty and stories to make it memorable.
What really draws people to this experience are two things: the personalized guidance from a knowledgeable captain and the luxury of an open bar with Prosecco. Both make the ride feel more like a celebration than just a sightseeing tour. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour can be affected by weather—thunderstorms, for example, might cut your journey short. Still, if you’re after a curated, intimate experience on Lake Como, this tour does a lot right.
This tour is best suited for those who want flexibility, love scenic views, and enjoy a touch of luxury. It’s especially appealing for couples, small families, or friends celebrating a special occasion. If you’re looking for a packed itinerary or a budget option, you might want to compare this against other offerings. But for a relaxed, guided cruise with a personal touch, it’s a solid choice.
- Key Points
- An Honest Look at the Lake Como Private Boat Experience
- Setting Off from Como
- The Itinerary and Sights
- The Scenic Stops and Natural Beauty
- The Experience on the Water
- The Realities and Considerations
- How the Tour Works and What to Expect
- Immersive Sights and Experiences
- Ease and Comfort
- Weather and Rescheduling
- Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
- Private Boat Tour with Open Bar Lake Como 7 Pax
- FAQs
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Lake Como
- More Tours in Lake Como
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Key Points

- Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
- Beautiful Stops: From villas, gardens, to the island, every stop offers unique sights.
- Knowledgeable Guide: The captain shares insights on the villas and local stories.
- Scenic Views: Expect stunning panoramas of Lake Como’s coastline and hidden corners.
- Luxury Touch: Includes an open bar with Prosecco and music for a relaxed vibe.
- Weather-Dependent: Cancellations or rescheduling might occur due to weather issues.
An Honest Look at the Lake Como Private Boat Experience

If you’re considering a boat tour on Lake Como, it’s worth understanding what makes this particular experience stand out—and where it might fall short. First, it’s a private, guided cruise that takes you around some of the most renowned sights on the lake, from Como town to the exclusive villas and even the island. The convenience of a mobile ticket makes booking straightforward, and the 2-hour duration strikes a good balance between seeing enough without feeling rushed.
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Setting Off from Como
The tour kicks off from Como’s Lungo Lario Trieste, right in front of the Lario bar. It’s an easy, accessible starting point, especially if you’re already exploring Como. The first stretch is a gentle cruise out onto the lake, giving you a chance to settle in and soak up the atmosphere. The guide, often someone like Ricky, is praised for being charismatic and well-informed, sharing stories and insights that enhance the scenery.
The Itinerary and Sights
The itinerary is well-planned to showcase a mix of architectural gems, natural beauty, and famous villas. You’ll cruise past Villa Olmo, a grand Neoclassical mansion now hosting the Centro Volta, and see Villa Erba, once owned by Italian director Luchino Visconti. These villas aren’t just pretty facades—they’re steeped in history and glamour, and you’ll get a glimpse of their luxurious exteriors.
Next, you’ll spot Villa d’Este, a top-tier hotel with a floating pool, and Villa Oleandra in Laglio, George Clooney’s lakefront residence. If you’re a fan of celebrity sightings or simply appreciate opulent architecture, these stops make the ride feel special. You’ll also get a chance to stop at Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como, where a swim might be possible—an especially popular highlight based on reviews.
The Scenic Stops and Natural Beauty
Beyond the villas, the tour takes you to places like the Laglio shoreline, the medieval church of San Vittore in Brienno, and the picturesque Torno, with its luxury hotels. The Orrido di Nesso, a dramatic natural ravine with a Roman bridge, feels almost like stepping into a fairytale. Passing through these spots allows you to appreciate the lake’s diversity—both its architectural grandeur and its untouched natural drama.
The Experience on the Water
What sets this tour apart is the combination of scenery and personalized service. Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Ricky, who not only point out the sights but also tell engaging stories. We loved hearing about the villas, local legends, and the history that makes Lake Como so unique.
The open bar is a delightful addition. You can enjoy Prosecco and music as you glide along, elevating the experience into a celebration. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a relaxed afternoon with friends. According to reviews, guests particularly loved the idea of sipping Prosecco while taking in the views, especially during sunset when the scenery turns surreal.
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The Realities and Considerations
While the experience is largely praised, there are some caveats. Weather plays a significant role—lightning storms or heavy rain can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, as one guest experienced. The tour’s cost of around $403.34 for up to 7 people is reasonable considering the private setting and luxury touches, but keep in mind that it’s an intimate experience, not a full-day cruise.
The duration of about two hours means you won’t see every corner of the lake, but the curated stops ensure you hit the highlights. It’s an ideal appetizer or a romantic outing rather than an exhaustive exploration.
How the Tour Works and What to Expect

The tour is straightforward: meet at the Como starting point, hop onto the boat with your group, and let the captain take care of the scenery and storytelling. The itinerary is flexible—you can ask for changes, and the captain may adjust stops based on your preferences or weather conditions.
The stops are mostly about admiring the exteriors of villas and natural attractions. Some, like Villa Pizzo and Villa le Fontanelle, are home to celebrities such as Gianni Versace. Others give you a sense of the grandeur that has made Lake Como a magnet for the rich and famous.
Immersive Sights and Experiences
Guests often mention how close the boat gets to the villas, offering unparalleled views that ground-based tours simply can’t match. The swimming stop at Isola Comacina is a fun bonus, giving you a quick dip in the lake’s clear waters.
Ease and Comfort
The boat itself is spacious enough for small groups, and the prompt communication and friendly service ensure a smooth experience from booking to disembarkation. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the journey informative, interesting, and fun.
Weather and Rescheduling
Since the experience is weather-dependent, it’s wise to have flexibility. If adverse weather occurs, you’ll be offered a full refund or a rescheduled date. This policy adds peace of mind, especially during unpredictable seasons.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This private boat tour is a fantastic way to see Lake Como if you’re after a personalized, scenic, and relaxed experience. It’s especially attractive for those who value good storytelling, stunning views, and a bit of champagne or Prosecco to elevate the moment. The small group size makes it intimate, and the knowledgeable guides add layers of interesting details that bring the scenery to life.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the value comes from exclusivity, comfort, and the ability to customize your route. If you’re in for a memorable, luxurious afternoon on Lake Como, this tour checks many boxes. Just be prepared for weather considerations and realize that it’s more about enjoying a curated experience than sightseeing exhaustively.
This tour suits travelers who want a blend of elegance, personal attention, and breathtaking scenery—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a beautiful day on Italy’s most iconic lake.
Private Boat Tour with Open Bar Lake Como 7 Pax
“We have a fabulous time to enjoy the beauty of Lake Como. 15 min into the boat ride we hit a Lightning thunderstorm. We have to turn back, Ricky gr…”
FAQs

How many people can join the tour?
Up to 7 people can participate, making it ideal for small groups or families.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, guided narration from the captain, and an open bar with Prosecco. It’s a curated experience with no hidden costs.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a full refund or rescheduling.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you a relaxed but comprehensive view of Lake Como’s highlights.
Is it suitable for children or families?
The tour is primarily designed for small groups and adults. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older children who enjoy scenery and boat rides might find it enjoyable.
Where do we meet?
The starting point is Lungo Lario Trieste 26 in Como, right in front of the Lario bar.
What happens if there’s a storm?
If there’s a thunderstorm or poor weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. The provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather.
Is the tour customizable?
While the itinerary includes several popular stops, you can request route changes or focus areas—just communicate with the captain before or during the ride.
If you’re after a luxurious, intimate glimpse of Lake Como with the chance to sip Prosecco while soaking in the views, this private boat tour offers a lot of charm. It’s perfect for those who want a personal, story-rich experience in one of Italy’s most beautiful settings.
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