Most "private boat tours" on Lake Como are three hours, fixed route. A real private day is eight to nine hours, your own boat with skipper, and the freedom to change everything at noon. Here is the itinerary that works.
9:00 — Como town pickup Boards at Como city dock or, on request, at your hotel's private pier in Cernobbio, Moltrasio or Blevio. Mahogany Venetian launches and modern Riva-style runabouts are both available; the choice depends on group size and weather.
10:00 — Cernobbio and the western shore Slow run past Villa d'Este, Villa Erba and Villa Pizzo. Stop for coffee in Argegno or continue directly toward Lenno.
11:30 — Villa del Balbianello Dock at the villa's stone pier. Either tour the gardens (90 minutes) or photograph from the water and continue. See our [Villa del Balbianello guide](/atlas/villa-del-balbianello-visit) for FAI hours.
13:00 — Lunch on the lake Three reliable options: La Darsena in Tremezzo (lakeside, simple, excellent), Locanda La Tirlindana in Sala Comacina (one of the lake's quietest terraces) or Mistral at Bellagio's Villa Serbelloni for a Michelin lunch.
15:30 — Bellagio Arrive by water, walk the village before the day-trippers reboard their ferries.
17:30 — Isola Comacina sunset The lake's only island, with one restaurant (Locanda dell'Isola, by reservation) and a 9th-century basilica ruin. Return to Como by 19:30, or extend with an aperitivo on the water.
The full day with skipper, fuel, and aperitivo basket starts from €1,400 in low season. Tell our concierge your group size, preferred restaurants and tempo, and we shape the route around you.
private boatLake ComoRivaskipperitinerary
Frequently asked
How many people fit on a private Lake Como boat?+
Small Riva-style runabouts seat 4–6 guests. Venetian launches and larger cruisers seat 8–12. For groups above 12, we charter two boats moving in tandem.
What happens if the weather turns?+
Most boats have a full canopy and the skipper monitors radar. If a storm forces cancellation, we rebook within the same trip or refund pro-rata.
Can we swim from the boat?+
Yes — the skipper drops anchor in quiet bays between Lenno and Bellagio. Towels and a swim ladder are standard onboard.
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