Lake Como · experiences
Lake Como Private Boat Charter Guide
Vintage Riva mahogany, modern cruisers and the routes worth taking.
A private boat on Lake Como is the only way to see the lake properly — the villas were built to be approached by water, the swim spots are inaccessible by car, and several restaurants only serve guests arriving by boat. Whether you want a vintage Riva for two hours or a full-day captained cruise, here is what to know.
Boat options
Vintage Riva Aquarama (the iconic 1960s mahogany — sex-on-the-water): €1,800–€2,500 for a 2-hour sunset charter. Modern open-top cruisers (Frauscher, Bavaria): €1,500–€3,500 for a full day with captain. Larger gozzi (traditional wooden) for groups of 12–14.
Routes worth taking
Half-day: Bellagio departure, west to Villa del Balbianello, south to Villa Carlotta, swim stop, back to Bellagio. Full-day: full triangle Como–Bellagio–Menaggio with lunch at a water-access-only restaurant like La Tirlindana or Crotto dei Platani.
What is included
Licensed captain (English-speaking, always), fuel, refreshments on board (water, prosecco), towels and swim ladder. Lunch and any onshore tasting stops are extra and pre-booked.
At a glance
- •Riva Aquarama (vintage mahogany): €1,800–2,500/2h
- •Modern cruiser, full day with captain: €1,500–3,500
- •Half-day route: Bellagio → Balbianello → Carlotta
- •Full-day: lake triangle + water-access-only lunch
- •Captain, fuel, refreshments included
Frequently asked
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Garden bloom, ferry season and quiet shoulder months.
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transport
Lake Como Ferry Guide
The lake's public transport system — when to use it.
culture
Lake Como Villa Gardens Guide
Four indispensable estates and when to visit each.
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Luxury Villas in Lake Como
What to Do
Curated Lake Como Experiences
Half day or full day (3–8 hours)
Private Boat Tour on Lake Como
Discover the lake's hidden gems from a vintage wooden boat
2 hours (evening)
Sunset Aperitivo Cruise
Golden hour on the water with Prosecco and panoramic views
Full day (6–7 hours)
Villa & Gardens Guided Tour
Step inside the legendary villas that define Lake Como
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Curated Collections
Plan a Trip Around a Theme
- Wedding VenuesHandpicked private estates in Tuscany and Lake Como suitable for destination weddings: full buy-outs, 12+ guests, vetted vendor network and dedicated planner.
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