Sailing at Sunset on Lake Como: How to escape from daily routine

Imagine slipping away from the hustle of everyday life and floating peacefully on the calm waters of Lake Como at sunset. That’s essentially what the Sailing at Sunset on Lake Como tour offers. It’s a short but memorable escape — a chance to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery Italy has to offer without the chaos of big crowds or rushing schedules.

What we really like about this experience are two things: first, the sense of relaxation it provides — especially with that peaceful sunset view — and second, the quality of the little aperitivo spread with Prosecco, which adds to the leisurely vibe. Sure, the price might seem a bit steep at around $266 per person, but when you consider the three-hour sail, the beautiful scenery, and the included food and drinks, it’s often seen as a worthwhile splurge. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is better suited for those who enjoy being on the water and appreciate calm, scenic moments rather than high-energy adventures.

If you’re someone looking to slow down, savor a peaceful evening, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of Lake Como, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good if you value a guided experience that combines gentle sailing with good company and beautiful views. But if you’re after a more active or family-oriented outing, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Relaxing Sunset Experience: Perfect for unwinding and taking in Lake Como’s beautiful evening colors.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The tour includes Prosecco and shared food, making it a seamless way to enjoy the moment.
• Short and Sweet: At just three hours, it fits easily into a busy itinerary.
• Limited Group Size: Max 6 people, ensuring some intimacy and personalized attention.
• Weather-Dependent: The experience hinges on good weather — always check ahead.
• Good Value for Relaxation: While not cheap, the combination of scenery, food, and drinks offers good value for a special evening.

What Does the Tour Include?

This sunset sail is designed to give you a taste of Lake Como’s magic with minimal fuss. You’ll have a skipper and an assistant guiding the boat, making sure safety and comfort are a priority. The main highlights are the 3-hour sail, which takes you from the start point at Malgrate heading north, stopping mid-lake for a swim, relaxation, and a little aperitivo shared with your fellow travelers.

The included aperitivo features Prosecco and food to nibble on, enhancing the relaxed, social atmosphere. Imagine sipping bubbly as the sun dips lower, with the stunning mountain backdrop framing your view. You can also jump into the clear waters if you fancy a refreshing dip — a real treat on hot summer nights. The tour ends back at the starting point, leaving you with plenty of time to continue your evening in Lake Como’s charming surroundings.

The Experience Itself

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on creating a peaceful, intimate environment. The experience is all about unwinding — the gentle sway of the boat, the soft sounds of water, and the changing sky. Several reviews highlight how memorable and calming the sunset views are. One reviewer describes gliding silently across the lake, the breeze whispering through the sails, and marveling at the majestic mountains that hug the shoreline. That kind of imagery really captures the mood.

Another reviewer raves about the wonderful hosts who make everyone feel comfortable despite the wind not cooperating sometimes. The water was described as “lovely,” and the snacks as “beyond amazing,” emphasizing that the experience is about quality — good company, good food, and beautiful scenery. The swimming, in particular, was a hit, and many appreciated the chance to wash away the day’s stress.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Amici del Vento Porto in Valmadrera, the tour departs around 7:00 pm, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy the sunset. As you sail north along the eastern side of Lake Como, you’ll appreciate the stunning landscape — towering mountains, lush greenery, and picturesque villages dotting the shoreline.

The boat will stop in the middle of the lake, a perfect spot for a swim, where you can paddle around in the clear water. This stop isn’t just about cooling off — it’s about savoring that sense of freedom that comes with being on the water, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

During the sail, you’ll enjoy the aperitivo, which includes Prosecco and shared food, ideal for snacking while soaking in the scenery. The boat’s limited size (max 6 travelers) makes for a cozy vibe, allowing for relaxed conversation and a personal touch.

The experience wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a peaceful memory of a lovely evening on Lake Como.

What Travelers Are Saying

Guests consistently mention how calming and memorable their sunset sail was. One reviewer highlights how the gliding silence and the scenery made it feel like a “magical evening,” emphasizing the calming effect of the experience. Others mention the friendly, knowledgeable hosts who ensured everyone felt safe and comfortable, even when the wind was less cooperative.

The food and drinks draw praise, with many saying the snacks and Prosecco complemented the views perfectly. Swimmers appreciated the opportunity to jump into the lake and wash away any residual stress, describing it as a “joyful and relaxing way to enjoy the countryside.” The feedback paints a picture of an experience that’s worth the price for those seeking peace, beauty, and leisurely enjoyment.

Practical Details and Considerations

While this tour offers a beautiful, relaxing experience, a few practical points are worth noting:

• Pricing: At $266.46 per person, it’s a luxury experience. Travelers should weigh this against the value of the scenery, food, and exclusivity — the small group size adds to its appeal.
• Duration: Three hours is a manageable length, fitting comfortably into an evening without feeling rushed.
• Group size: Limited to 6, which makes for a more personalized experience, but it also means that booking in advance is recommended, often 18 days ahead on average.
• Weather dependence: Being an outdoor experience on a boat, it’s best suited for good weather. If canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
• Additional costs: Transfers from your accommodation are extra and available on request. Extra drinks or food beyond what’s included are also at your expense.
• Accessibility: Not recommended for people with mobility impairments and requires some physical agility to jump into the water.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
You’ll need to contact the provider if traveling with kids under 8, but generally, the experience is geared towards adults who enjoy quiet, scenic sailing.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable clothes, a windproof jacket, sunglasses, and in hot summer nights, a swimsuit and towel. A fully closed bag or backpack is recommended for safety.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The start point is near public transportation at Amici del Vento Porto in Valmadrera. Check your route in advance, and if needed, contact the tour provider for assistance.

Is the tour available in all weather?
It requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s a stop in the middle of the lake for swimming, with life vests provided for safety.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 18 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience, especially in summer.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This sunset sail on Lake Como is ideal for travelers seeking a serene, leisurely escape. If you love scenic views, gentle sailing, good food, and peaceful moments, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a wonderful choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a quiet, beautiful way to end a day.

Those with a love for nature’s calm and an appreciation for intimate, guided experiences will especially enjoy this tour. However, if you prefer energetic activities or have mobility challenges, you might want to consider other options on the lake.

In the end, this tour offers something special — a peaceful pause amid one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes. It’s not about adrenaline or crowds but about savoring the moment, enjoying excellent company, and soaking in the stunning sights of Lake Como at sunset. If that sounds appealing, and you’re prepared for the weather, it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.