Public Tour Lake Como By SuBacco

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most picturesque spots, famous for its dramatic scenery, charming villages, and luxurious villas. If you’re considering a boat tour to take it all in, the Public Tour Lake Como By SuBacco is a popular choice. Based on numerous traveler reviews and the experience details, this tour offers a relaxed way to see some of the lake’s highlights without breaking the bank.

We love that this tour is intimate, with a small group size of no more than 8 people, which makes it easy to chat with others and really soak in the scenery. Another plus? It includes a selection of drinks—white wine, prosecco, and water—adding a little extra touch of indulgence. However, a key point to consider is the additional fuel surcharge, which has to be paid in cash locally. That’s something to keep in mind when budgeting for your trip.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic experience with friendly guides, good value, and plenty of photo opportunities. It might not be for you if you’re looking for a private, fully customizable experience or if strict schedules and additional fees are a concern. But if you’re after a fun, social outing with plenty of scenery, this boat trip could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Small group size makes for a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
• Includes drinks like wine, prosecco, and water, adding to the relaxed vibe.
• Guerranteed departures with at least 4 people, so it’s quite reliable.
• Additional fuel surcharge of €20 per person, payable locally—plan to bring cash.
• Rich commentary from the captain about villas and local sights adds value.
• Stops for swimming and photo ops make the experience more interactive.

Why Consider This Lake Como Boat Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a genuine, unpretentious experience, this tour offers a chance to see Lake Como from a position of comfort. Unlike larger, more commercial boat trips, SuBacco’s small group setting means you’ll get a more personal feel, plus the opportunity to chat with the captain and your fellow travelers. The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to explore without feeling rushed, especially with the chance to stop for swimming or take pictures.

The brand new Karnic SL651 boat promises a clean, modern ride, which adds to the overall experience. The relaxed pace and the inclusion of music and beverages make it a pleasant way to unwind and take in the scenery. And with the departure point in Como’s pier “Sant’Agostino,” it’s easy to locate, and you’ll be on the water quickly.

What’s the Itinerary Like?

The tour kicks off from Como’s pier, “Sant’Agostino,” where you’ll meet your guide and boat captain. From there, the journey begins with an overview of Lake Como’s first basin, where you’ll get a glimpse of the charming villages that line the shoreline, such as Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, and Blevio. These small towns are full of character, and from the water, you get a completely different perspective compared to land views.

One of the main highlights is the “unseen” villas—like Villa d’Este and Villa Erba—that aren’t visible from land. The captain provides commentary about each villa’s style and history, making the experience more engaging. We loved the way the guide shared personal stories and insights, which helped bring the scenery to life. As some reviews praise, the knowledgeable guides make a real difference here.

Next, the tour heads toward Laglio, a quaint village with a cozy vibe. The boat then makes a stop at Nesso Waterfall, a spectacular natural feature that’s perfect for photos and just admiring the wild beauty of the lake’s natural side. During the trip, there’s a good chance to swim if the weather’s warm, which travelers really enjoy according to reviews, but be aware that the boat is small and can get a little chilly if it’s windy or cloudy.

Throughout the tour, the captain points out notable villas and landmarks, sharing interesting tidbits along the way. The inclusion of music and drinks—white wine, prosecco, and water—adds to the laid-back atmosphere. You might find that the small group setting allows for easier conversation and makes it a social outing, perfect for travelers wanting to meet new friends.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture. Many travelers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with reviews praising the hosts for sharing personal stories and making the trip memorable. For example, one reviewer said, “Our driver and tour guide Luca was excellent. I would highly recommend this boat tour. What beauty!!!”—a sentiment shared by many.

Others appreciate the stunning scenery and the chance to get up close to the lakeside villas and celebrity homes, like those of George Clooney and Gianni Versace. Several mention that the small group size allows for a more intimate experience, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Of course, some reviews point out minor frustrations. A few found the boat a bit small for comfort, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. The additional €20 fuel surcharge—paid in cash—has also been a point of annoyance for some travelers, who would prefer this fee to be included upfront. One reviewer commented, “Include it in the upfront cost, or don’t ask for it at all,” highlighting the importance of clear cost expectations.

Some travelers also expressed disappointment when the timing wasn’t exactly on schedule, with the tour ending slightly early or starting late. Plus, a few found the experience a bit boring or rushed, especially if they expected more drinks or entertainment. However, these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Lungo Lario Trieste in Como

The meeting point is straightforward—near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Arriving a bit early is recommended so you can settle in and get comfortable.

The First Basin: Charm from the Water

The boat departs from Como’s pier and begins skimming along the first basin. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the lakeside villages like Cernobbio and Moltrasio, each with their unique vibe. From the water, the villas look even more stunning—large, stately structures with lush gardens and distinctive styles. The captain points out villas such as Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, giving a brief background that adds context to the sights.

Villages and Villas from the Water

Seeing these villas from the lake offers a perspective impossible from land. Many reviewers mention that this view is worth the trip alone. The fact that the guide shares personal insights and stories makes the experience more engaging than just a sightseeing cruise.

Stop at Laglio and Nesso Waterfall

The boat stops at Laglio, a tranquil village with an authentic Italian charm. Then, the highlight for many: the Nesso waterfall, a natural spectacle that’s photogenic and refreshing. If the weather is warm, you might even want to take a dip—but be aware that the boat is small, and comfort can depend on the weather conditions.

Photo Opportunities and Swimming

The tour is designed to allow plenty of stops for photos and swimming, which many travelers love. The opportunity to capture the villas, waterfalls, and mountain views makes this a trip to remember. Just remember to bring your waterproof camera and some warm clothes if the weather’s chilly.

Returning to Como

After roughly two hours on the water, the boat loops back to the starting point. The captain might play some music to wind down, and the group can share their favorite moments before disembarking.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Group Size

The 2-hour duration is long enough to see plenty without tiring out, especially given the small group size—up to 8 people, which fosters a friendly, intimate experience. The limited number of participants means you’ll have a good chance to ask questions and interact with the guide.

Pricing and Costs

The tour costs roughly $139.54 per person, which includes the boat ride, drinks, and commentary. However, the €20 fuel surcharge must be paid on-site in cash, so budget accordingly. Some reviews suggest this fee should be included upfront for transparency, which makes sense.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since this experience relies on good weather, it’s worth checking the forecast. If weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled for a full refund or rescheduled. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers some flexibility.

Accessibility and Physical Fitness

Moderate physical fitness is recommended, mainly for boarding the boat and possibly swimming if you choose to do so. There are no specific accessibility notes, so travelers with mobility issues should inquire further.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This public boat tour on Lake Como is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, friendly experience with stunning views and engaging guides. It’s perfect if you’re interested in seeing the lakeside villas from the water, enjoying some wine, and making new friends in a small group setting. The inclusion of drinks and the personal touch from the captain make it feel more like a local outing than a commercial cruise.

However, if you’re very particular about timing or prefer a private experience, you might find this tour less fitting. The additional fuel charge and minor schedule variations might also be considerations for those on strict budgets or tight schedules.

All in all, this tour offers a great balance of affordability, scenery, and companionship, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to experience Lake Como from a different perspective.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of a small boat and the possibility of swimming, it’s best suited for children comfortable on boats and with moderate physical activity.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, a bottle of water, and alcoholic beverages like wine or prosecco. The price does not include the €20 fuel surcharge, which must be paid locally.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The departure point is at “Ristorante Bar Lario” on Lungo Lario Trieste, Como. It’s accessible and easy to find.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may result in cancellation with a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy, intimate experience.

Is it possible to swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible during stops if the weather permits, but check with the captain beforehand.

In summary, the SuBacco Lake Como boat tour offers a charming, personable way to see the lake’s highlights. With friendly guides, beautiful vistas, and good value—including drinks—it’s a trip many travelers will enjoy. Just remember the small additional fee for fuel and the need to plan for weather conditions. For those craving a relaxed, social outing on the water with plenty of photo ops, this tour stands out as a solid choice.