Baveno is a fantastic base for exploring Lake Maggiore, thanks to its beautiful lakeside setting and convenient access to both the Borromean Islands and charming towns along the shoreline. What makes Baveno stand out for tours is the variety of options—whether you want a romantic dinner on the water, a scenic sunset cruise, or a relaxing boat ride to Santa Caterina del Sasso, there’s something for every type of traveler. We particularly like the Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori because it combines an authentic meal on a small island with a private boat ride—a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
For those who prefer a shorter, more casual experience, the Panoramic Sunset Cruise offers a chance to soak in the views of Baveno and Stresa at golden hour. If you’re after a flexible, family-friendly option that also includes a visit to Santa Caterina del Sasso, the Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo fits the bill. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour to help you decide which Baveno adventure suits your style and interests.
1. Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo
This 3-hour private boat dinner experience offers an unforgettable way to enjoy Lake Maggiore at night. Starting from Feriolo, you’ll hop into a private taxi boat that whisks you across the shimmering waters to Fishermen’s Island, where a choice of restaurants awaits you. The highlight is the chance to savor a delicious dinner in a truly unique setting, with the moonlight bouncing off the lake and the surrounding mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
What makes this tour stand out is the private boat ride, which means you can relax in comfort and avoid the crowds typical of larger tour boats. The itinerary is straightforward—beginning at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, your water taxi takes about 20 minutes to reach the island, where you can spend 2.5 hours choosing from a variety of local restaurants. The reviews are glowing—”Very nice The island is beautiful” perfectly captures the intimate, scenic vibe.
Bottom line: For couples or small groups looking for a romantic dinner combined with a peaceful boat ride, this is hard to beat. The hassle-free transfer and beautiful setting make it a top choice, especially if you appreciate good food and quiet evenings on the lake.
2. Lake Maggiore: Panoramic Sunset Cruise from Feriolo
This one-hour sunset cruise provides a scenic, relaxed way to experience Lake Maggiore’s beauty. Departing from Feriolo, the boat glides through the Borromean Gulf, passing by Baveno and Stresa, offering stunning views during the magic hour of sunset. The trip also includes sights like Isola Madre’s botanical gardens and the 17th-century palace on Isola Bella as the boat moves past.
During the cruise, you’ll also see the islet of San Giovanni and admire the elegant villas lining the water. The highlight, of course, is the glow of the late afternoon light illuminating the mountains and the water, perfect for photos. The captain is noted for being friendly and eager to explain the sights – “The captain was very friendly and tried very hard to explain everything,” says one review.
The cruise is affordable at just $17 per person, making it a great way to enjoy the lake without committing to a full day. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a short, scenic experience that captures the essence of Lake Maggiore’s tranquility.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of the Borromean Gulf in the best light, this cruise offers excellent value and a memorable view of the area’s natural and architectural beauty.
3. Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo
For a more relaxed exploration, this 2-hour boat tour combines a scenic ride with a visit to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Starting from Feriolo, you’ll hop into a water taxi that takes about 30 minutes across Lake Maggiore to Santa Caterina. Once there, you can explore this historic monastery at your own pace, soaking in the views and tranquility.
This tour stands out because it offers more flexibility—you can spend around 2 hours exploring the hermitage, which sits dramatically on a cliff overlooking the lake. It’s a perfect choice for families or those interested in a quieter, cultural experience. The tour also offers a family deal for 2 adults and 2 children, making it budget-friendly.
Guests note that the boat ride itself provides beautiful scenery of the lake and surrounding mountains, and the hermitage is a fascinating spot with plenty of photo opportunities. The experience balances scenic travel with cultural discovery, making it more than just a boat ride.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and cultural experience, this tour offers a relaxed pace and great value, especially when visiting with family.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lake Maggiore Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and timing. If a romantic evening with dinner on Fishermen’s Island appeals to you, the Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori is the best fit. For a quick but stunning sunset view, the Panoramic Sunset Cruise offers an affordable and beautiful experience. Want a more immersive visit to Santa Caterina del Sasso and scenic lake views? The Boat to Santa Caterina is your best bet for a relaxed, cultural outing.
Think about your budget, the amount of time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a luxurious, intimate dinner, a short scenic cruise, or a cultural exploration. Booking early is wise, especially in the busy summer months or during peak weekends.
In summary, Baveno offers a range of memorable water-based tours that highlight the stunning Lake Maggiore scenery and charming islands. The Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori makes for a romantic, fuss-free evening, while the Sunset Cruise offers a quick but magical view of the sunset. For those wanting a relaxed, family-friendly visit to Santa Caterina del Sasso, the boat tour provides both scenic beauty and cultural interest.
No matter what you choose, these tours promise a genuine taste of Lake Maggiore’s tranquility and beauty. Book early, plan your preferred experience, and enjoy the peaceful waters and spectacular views that make this part of Italy so special.
