Como: Wooden Boat Private Tour with Winter Cover and Skipper

Lake Como Wooden Boat Private Tour with a Skipper and Winter Cover

Exploring Lake Como’s shimmering waters on a private wooden boat might sound like something only celebrities do, but it’s actually accessible to anyone looking for an intimate, scenic experience. This tour, offered by Shusciu Nautical Division, provides a cozy, well-equipped way to enjoy Lake Como’s beauty — whatever the season.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private nature means you can customize your journey and enjoy the lake’s highlights without the hustle of bigger group tours. Second, the winter cover offers protection from the cold and rain, making it a viable option year-round — perfect for those chilly spring, autumn, or even winter days. Lastly, the knowledgeable skipper ensures you get insightful commentary about the villas and lakeside towns, adding context and charm to your cruise.

A potential consideration is the additional fuel cost, which isn’t included in the ticket price and must be paid to the skipper at the end. This can add around 50 EUR per hour, so it’s worth factoring into your budget. For travelers seeking a luxury, flexible experience with personal service and a chance to see some of Italy’s most iconic scenery, this tour fits the bill.

This trip is well-suited for those who want a private, weather-proof boat ride with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you enjoy scenic photography, relaxing on the water, or learning about the lakeside villas. It’s also great for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a more intimate way to explore Lake Como beyond crowded boat tours.

Good To Know

• Private Experience: Customizable, exclusive cruise with your own skipper.
• Weather Comfort: Winter cover ensures comfort in rain, wind, or cold.
• Stunning Views: See luxury villas, charming towns, and natural landscapes from the water.
• Informative Guides: Knowledgeable skippers share insights about the area’s history and highlights.
• Flexible Duration: Tours last from 1 to 2 hours, with options to extend.
• Additional Costs: Fuel (~50 EUR/hr) paid separately at the end.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Como Private Wooden Boat Tour

The Setting and What to Expect

You’ll meet your skipper at the S. Agostino floating pier in Como, right in front of the Lario bar — an ideal starting point with easy access. Once aboard the refurbished wooden boat— featuring exquisite Lake Como craftsmanship, fine wood details, and new fittings from late 2024—you’re ready to set sail across the lake’s placid waters.

The boat itself is designed for comfort, with rear cushions ideal for lounging and lights for a sunset cruise. In the colder months, the winter cover protects you from wind and rain, allowing a comfortable experience regardless of the weather. Soft drinks and bottled water are available during the trip, with the possibility of requesting wine or prosecco beforehand for those special moments on the water.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

Your cruise will pass through several lakeside highlights, each with its own appeal. The route generally includes:

• Blevio: A quaint lakeside town noted for its charming streets and villas. The guide might pass by, giving you an opportunity to admire the historic architecture from the water.
• Torno: Famous for its picturesque harbor and historic buildings, Torno offers a glimpse into local life away from tourist hotspots.
• Moltrasio: Known for its elegant villas and peaceful scenery, this stop is perfect for quick photo sessions. One reviewer mentioned, “We stopped for a quick 10-minute photo stop, which was just enough to capture the lake’s tranquility.”
• Laglio: The town that gained fame as George Clooney’s residence, Laglio presents a blend of natural beauty and celebrity allure, with commentary on the luxurious villas lining the shores.
• Cernobbio: A renowned destination, Cernobbio is famous for its opulent villas and lush gardens. The guide will pass by, sharing snippets of local lore and facts, making it both a sightseeing and educational journey.

The tour ends back at the S. Agostino pier, leaving you with a sense of having seen the key highlights of Lake Como in a relaxed, personalized manner.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Many reviews highlight the skippers’ knowledge and friendliness. For example, Elizabeth praised Captain Josh for his kindness and tailored approach, which made the experience “well worth the money.” Mustafa appreciated how Josh explained the area’s history and even took photos, adding a personal touch to the ride.

Another reviewer, Quyen, called it “the highlight of our trip,” emphasizing Josh’s professionalism and warmth, as well as the unexpected joy of including his well-behaved dog Tokyo onboard. This personal touch made the trip memorable, transforming a simple boat ride into an emotional experience.

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Comfort, Safety, and Extras

The boat’s refurbishment means you’re traveling in style with classic Lake Como craftsmanship. The winter cover is a simple but effective addition, making this tour viable despite unpredictable weather. The cushions and rear seating ensure comfort, and the onboard lighting makes sunset cruises particularly magical.

Soft drinks and bottled water keep you refreshed, with the option to request wine or prosecco (ask beforehand). This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a relaxed afternoon.

Pricing and Value

At $203.91 for a private group, this tour offers significant value, considering the exclusivity and personalized service. The price covers the boat, skipper, and refreshments but excludes a 50 EUR per hour fuel charge, payable at the end.

Compared to larger group tours, this private experience offers personal attention, flexibility, and a pace that suits you. Many reviewers felt it was worth the splurge, especially with guides like Josh and Ricardo who made the experience both informative and fun. One guest mentioned that they wished they had booked a longer trip, highlighting how engaging and captivating the scenery and commentary can be.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 1 to 2 hours — check availability for specific start times.
• Meeting Point: S. Agostino floating pier, in front of Lario bar.
• Languages: Guides speak both English and Italian.
• Group Size: Private, tailored for your party.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, especially if you plan to take photos or want to explore nearby.
• Weather: The winter cover makes this suitable in almost all weather conditions.
• Additional Costs: Fuel (~50 EUR/hr) paid to the skipper at the end.
• Not suited for: People with mobility issues, as the boat’s design may pose challenges.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat tour is perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate experience of Lake Como without the crowds. If you’re interested in learning about the area’s villas and lakeside towns from a knowledgeable guide, this is your ideal choice. It’s also great for couples, small families, or friends who value comfort and privacy and want to enjoy the lake in any weather.

It’s especially suitable if you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise with the option to customize stops and commentary. With the added bonus of soft drinks and the ability to request wines, it’s a charming way to celebrate special occasions or simply indulge in a peaceful day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, the experience is for your group only, with a dedicated skipper guiding you around Lake Como.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private speedboat, the guide/skipper, soft drinks, and bottled water. Fuel is not included and is paid separately.

How long is the tour?
Tours last between 1 and 2 hours, depending on availability and your preferences.

Where do I meet the skipper?
You meet your skipper at the S. Agostino floating pier in Como, right in front of the Lario bar.

Can I request specific stops or routes?
The itinerary includes stops at Blevio, Torno, Moltrasio, Laglio, and Cernobbio, but you can pass by or stop briefly at each location as you wish.

Is the boat suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the winter cover allows the boat to be used in rain or cold, making it a flexible option year-round.

Do I need to pay anything extra?
Yes, you will need to pay the fuel surcharge (~50 EUR per hour) directly to the skipper at the end of the trip.

Is this experience good for photography?
Absolutely. The boat’s vantage point offers spectacular views of villas, mountains, and the lake’s natural beauty, perfect for photos.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
Likely not, as the tour is not designed for those with mobility impairments.

In essence, this Lake Como private wooden boat tour offers a charming, flexible way to see Italy’s most famous lake from the water. With a knowledgeable guide, cozy winter cover, and a personalized approach, it’s an experience that will leave you with beautiful memories and stunning photos. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a peaceful day on the lake, it’s a well-priced, high-quality option worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: