Borromeo Islands One Hour Cigarette 28ss Private Tour

Introduction

This review covers the Borromeo Islands One Hour Cigarette 28ss Private Tour, a speedy, stylish way to explore Lake Maggiore’s most famous sights. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed information and glowing review speak volumes about its appeal.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of luxury, intimate views, and the chance to see some of Italy’s most iconic islands—all from the comfort of an elegant sports boat. It’s ideal for those who crave a short but memorable adventure, particularly if you’re keen to avoid long boat queues or crowded tours.

One potential consideration? The one-hour duration means you’ll want to focus on the highlights rather than expect a deep dive into each site. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic, and indulgent experience—perfect for a romantic escape, a quick break from sightseeing, or a special gift for someone who loves high-speed adventures.

Good To Know

• Exclusive private experience for groups up to five, offering personalized attention.
• Stunning panoramic views of Lake Maggiore’s islands and the Hermitage from a sleek Cigarette boat.
• Authentic stops on Fishermen’s Island, Isola Bella, and Isola Madre, each with unique sights.
• Expert guide included, providing insightful commentary along the route.
• Comfort and convenience with amenities like a bathroom ladder, sound system, and phone charger.
• Great value for a private, high-end experience that captures the essence of Lake Maggiore in just an hour.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Boat: Speed, Style, and Comfort

The Cigarette 28ss is a standout feature of this tour. Known for its sleek lines and powerful engine, it offers a smooth ride across Lake Maggiore. Reviewers mention it going “quietly,” which suggests a comfortable cruising experience, even when traveling at speed. The boat’s modern amenities—such as a sound box and a phone charger—add a touch of convenience for tech-savvy travelers who want to capture their moments or listen to music while sightseeing.

The inclusion of features like an awning ensures some shade during sunny days, making the hour-long ride more pleasant. Having a bathroom ladder onboard might seem minor, but it’s a thoughtful detail for those who appreciate comfort during quick excursions.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Flows

This tour packs a lot into just 60 minutes. The itinerary is carefully curated to maximize sightlines and experience without the need for lengthy stops.

Fishermen’s Island

First up is Fishermen’s Island, the smallest and only inhabited of the Borromean Islands. This spot offers an authentic feel—with narrow alleys, charming multi-storey houses, and traditional balconies used for drying fish. The island’s medieval church, San Vittore, adds to its rustic charm.

Guests can admire this picturesque village from the water, taking in its lively yet peaceful atmosphere. The focus here is on appreciating the authenticity and daily life of this tiny community—something that larger, busier tours might overlook.

Isola Bella

Next, the boat glides past Isola Bella, renowned for its Palazzo Borromeo and terraced gardens. From the water, you’ll see the baroque terraces decorated with statues, fountains, and exotic plants—an architectural feat given the island’s rocky origins.

This stop is all about visual impact. Many reviews note the “spectacular views” and how the lush gardens contrast sharply with the rocky landscape, creating a fairy-tale scene. The boat’s proximity allows for close-up views, perfect for photos.

Isola Madre

The largest of the three main islands, Isola Madre, is famed for its English-style botanical garden. It’s alive with rare plants, exotic flowers, and peacocks wandering freely. The Palazzo Borromeo here holds antique furnishings and puppet collections, a detail that appeals to lovers of history and art.

While the tour doesn’t stop for long, you’ll get an excellent vantage point to appreciate the lush greenery and the island’s historical charm.

Santa Caterina del Sasso

The final notable stop is the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Perched dramatically on a cliff, this medieval monastery is a visual marvel, with its frescoed walls and mystical ambiance. From the boat, you can marvel at the structure’s rugged location and panoramic views of Lake Maggiore.

Reviewers mention that this site’s mystical atmosphere and spectacular vistas make it a highlight. Many feel that viewing Santa Caterina from the lake provides a perspective that’s both breathtaking and unique.

What’s Included & Why It Matters

The tour package includes petrol, so there are no hidden fuel charges, plus a sound box for commentary—meaning you won’t miss out on interesting tidbits about each stop. The phone charger ensures your devices stay ready to capture the scenery, while the bathroom ladder suggests comfort and practicality during the brief ride.

Being a private tour, it offers exclusivity and personalized attention, which is a big plus for couples, small groups, or families wanting a tailored experience.

Pricing & Value

At $581.78 for up to five people, this tour may seem pricey compared to public ferry rides or group excursions. However, considering the private nature, luxury boat, and expert guidance, it represents solid value for those seeking a special, intimate experience. The private aspect means your journey is quiet, relaxed, and adaptable—ideal for making the most of each view without the rush of larger groups.

Duration & Timing

The one-hour cruise means you’ll need to prioritize what you want to see. It’s perfect for a quick refresh and photo opportunity, especially if you’re limited on time or want a taste of Lake Maggiore’s beauty without a long commitment.

Authenticity & Reviewer Insights

Based on the single review, the experience is “fantastic going quietly,” highlighting the boat’s smooth ride. The reviewer also appreciated the adrenaline aspect, noting that the boat can provide a thrill for those who like speed, but it’s primarily a calm, scenic cruise.

Other key points:

• The tour offers “see the lake from the lake,” providing perspectives impossible from land-based tours.
• The guides are described as knowledgeable, adding depth to the sightseeing with commentary that enriches the experience.
• The views of the islands and Santa Caterina are described as spectacular, making it a visual feast.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value privacy and comfort over lengthy excursions. It’s perfect for romantic getaways, small groups, or anyone wanting a luxury, hassle-free way to see Lake Maggiore. If you love stunning scenery, speedy adventures, and authentic sights, this tour ticks all boxes.

However, if you’re seeking a detailed exploration of each island or historical site, this one-hour cruise might feel brief. It’s best as a complementary activity rather than the main event.

The Sum Up

The Borromeo Islands One Hour Cigarette 28ss Private Tour offers a sleek, intimate way to enjoy Lake Maggiore’s signature sights in a short time. The blend of luxury, expert guidance, and breathtaking views makes it a standout experience for those who want a taste of Italy’s scenic charm without the crowds or long waits.

With its private setting and high-end boat, it’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a personalized adventure on the water. While the price is on the higher side, the exclusivity and quality of the experience justify the cost for those looking to indulge.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and stylish way to see the Borromean Islands, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and a little patience for the brief but beautiful ride.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, packing in views of Fishermen’s Island, Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Santa Caterina del Sasso.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat’s petrol, a guide, sound system, phone charger, an awning for shade, and a bathroom ladder for comfort.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it perfect for a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Is it suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but the boat’s speed and the short duration might be more suitable for those comfortable with quick rides.

How many people can join?
Up to five people per booking, making it intimate and manageable.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, mid-morning or late afternoon usually offers the best lighting and calmer waters for sightseeing.