Exploring the Lake Como Private Tour by SuBacco: A Detailed Look

If you’re thinking about soaking in the beauty of Lake Como from the water, the Private Tour Lake Como by SuBacco might be right up your alley. This experience promises an intimate, tailored way to see the famous villas, picturesque villages, and landmarks that make this corner of Italy so special. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered insights from travelers and the tour details to give you a balanced, honest look at what you can expect.
What we really like about this tour is the personalized nature—it’s private, with a cap of six people, which means you’ll avoid the crowds and get a more relaxed, flexible experience. The luxury boat, the Karnic SL651, also sounds like a treat, offering a smooth ride and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery. Plus, the inclusion of wine or prosecco tastings and swimming stops adds a fun, leisurely vibe. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the additional fuel surcharge of €100, which might feel a little unexpected if you’re not prepared for extra costs.
This tour seems best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a high-quality, private glimpse of Lake Como with a touch of luxury. If you’re after a memorable, personal experience on the water with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour could be your go-to.
Key Points

- Exclusive private experience with up to 6 guests ensures a personal touch.
- Luxurious boat enhances comfort and style during the tour.
- Variety of sights including villas, villages, waterfalls, and celebrity estates.
- Flexible itinerary with swimming, wine tastings, and photo opportunities.
- Clear cost structure with transparent pricing and additional charges explained upfront.
- Highly rated guides and captain, making the journey engaging and informative.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Lake Como
Discovering Lake Como from the Water
When we talk about Lake Como, what makes it so captivating is the blend of natural beauty and elegant architecture. This tour takes you out onto the water aboard the Karnic SL651, a luxury vessel that promises comfort and style. Starting in Como, you’ll cruise past small, charming villages like Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, and Blevio, each with their unique character and views. What’s special about a boat is the ability to see villas and mansions that are just not accessible from land, like the stunning exteriors of Villa D’Este, Villa Erba, and Villa Oleandra, George Clooney’s residence.
The actual experience is not just about the sights but also the feeling of drifting along the lake’s calm waters. Many reviews mention how the guides make the experience personable and fun, with Fabio standing out as a personable captain who goes the extra mile—taking photos, sharing insights, and making everyone feel at ease. The boat’s amenities, including music, sunscreen, and bathing facilities, help make this a comfortable outing, whether you’re just taking in the views or planning to hop in for a swim.
Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

Starting at the pier “Sant’Agostino” in Como, the tour kicks off with a gentle cruise across the lake’s first basin. This initial phase offers a great opportunity to observe the villages along the shoreline and get a sense of the area’s layout. It’s a scenic preview of what’s to come, and since admission to the villages and villas is free, your focus is on the views and the experience.
Next, you’ll pass by famous villas such as Villa D’Este and Villa Erba in Cernobbio, which are architectural icons just barely visible from land. The boat gets closer, giving you a better look at these private estates’ exteriors. The tour also includes a visit to the Nesso waterfalls, which is a real highlight—not only for the natural beauty but also because boat access provides a perspective impossible from the land.
One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the guide’s knowledge. Lara P. describes Roberto as “a great host and guide and very knowledgeable,” which adds depth to the experience. The boat also makes a stop for swimming and wine or prosecco tastings, which many guests find relaxing and enjoyable. These stops are often highlights, especially considering the beautiful setting for a quick dip or a toast.
The Villas and Villages

The tour’s itinerary includes notable villas such as Villa Oleandra, famously owned by George Clooney, in Laglio, and other private estates like Passalacqua and Versace in Moltrasio. These villas are often the main reason many people book a boat tour—they’re private, sprawling, and full of character.
In Blevio, you’ll see the Hotel Mandarin, which adds to the luxurious feel of the area. The boat’s ability to get close allows you to observe the impressive architecture and lush gardens that surround these properties, often obscured from land vantage points.
The Water and Nature Experience

Beyond the villas, the Nesso waterfalls are a natural spectacle worth the trip. Many reviews mention how stunning it is to see the waterfalls from the water, with some guests even swimming or relaxing in the lake. The bathing facilities provided add a nice touch, allowing you to cool off during warm weather.
The Experience’s Practical Aspects

The duration of approximately 2 hours might seem brief, but it’s usually enough to cover the main sights without feeling rushed. The cost of $414.72 per group—covering up to six people—can seem steep at first glance. However, considering the luxury boat, private nature, and all-inclusive features (water, wine, expert captain), many travelers find it to be a good value for a special occasion or a unique experience.
A note on extra costs: there’s a €100 fuel surcharge and an extra €25 per person for the 7th and 8th passengers. These are transparently communicated, but it’s worth factoring them into your budget.
What People Are Saying

From the glowing reviews, several themes emerge. Guests love the knowledgeable guides and captains, describing Fabio as “personable, kind, and funny,” which makes the tour feel more like a friendly day out than a formal excursion. The stunning scenery and villa views are consistently praised, with many saying they wouldn’t miss this when visiting Lake Como.
One reviewer even mentioned, “A boat tour of Lake Como is a must! It was a highlight of the trip for our children,” revealing that while it’s mostly about scenery and luxury, it can also be family-friendly depending on your group.
Is It Worth the Price?

While not the cheapest way to experience Lake Como, this tour offers a private, tailored, and comfortable outing that’s perfect for those wanting something special. The luxury boat, personalized service, and beautiful vistas justify the cost, especially if you value a more exclusive experience and want to avoid the crowds on public tours.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience suits travelers seeking a luxurious, intimate way to see Lake Como’s highlights. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families who appreciate comfort and personalized service. If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and relaxed way to explore the lake without the hassle of crowded boats or bus tours, this could be a great choice.
Final Thoughts
The Private Tour Lake Como by SuBacco offers a well-rounded, high-quality way to experience one of Italy’s most stunning lakes. You’ll love the personalized attention, the beautiful scenery, and the chance to see famous villas and natural wonders from the water. While the extra costs might add up, many travelers find the experience worth every euro for that sense of exclusivity and the memories it creates.
This tour is particularly good if you’re looking for a relaxing, private, and scenic outing that combines natural beauty, architecture, and a touch of luxury. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a special treat with friends, it’s likely to leave you with some fantastic stories and photos.
Private Tour Lake Como By SuBacco
“This was an absolutely fantastic private tour of the beautiful Lake Como. If visiting, do not miss the opportunity to get out on the water to view …”
FAQ
Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group, with a maximum of six people, so you won’t be sharing with strangers.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is usually enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat rental, an expert captain, insurance, music, sunscreen, water, and wine or prosecco tastings. The only extras are a €100 fuel surcharge and €25 per person for the 7th and 8th passengers.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the pier “Sant’Agostino” in Como, specifically at “Via Lungo Lario Trieste.”
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible with the boat stop for bathing facilities, and many guests enjoy a quick dip or relaxing in the water.
Are children welcome?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience’s relaxed, scenic nature makes it suitable for families, especially if your children enjoy boat rides and water activities.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable, and bad weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.
This private Lake Como boat tour offers a lovely blend of scenery, comfort, and exclusivity. If you’re after a memorable way to experience the lake’s beauty, it’s worth considering, especially if personalized service and stunning villa views are high on your list.
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