How to Choose the Best Boat Tour on Lake Como

Lake Como has a lot of boat options, but not all “tours” are the same thing. This guide helps you choose the right experience based on privacy, comfort, route flexibility, skipper quality, timing, and what’s actually included.

Private vs shared Skipper Route flexibility Departure points What’s included Timing

1) Decide the type: private tour or shared tour

Private boat tour
  • Your group only (no strangers)
  • More flexible timing and route
  • Best for couples and small groups
  • Ideal for photos, proposals, special occasions
Shared tour or public service
  • Fixed schedule and route
  • Lower privacy
  • Works if your priority is transportation
  • Can be crowded in peak season

2) Check what’s included (this is where people get surprised)

Two tours can look similar online but be totally different on the day. Before booking, confirm the essentials clearly.

Skipper included
If a skipper is included, guests do not need a boating license.
Must-have
Fuel included
Fuel changes the real final cost. Always confirm if it’s included.
Must-have
Private boat reserved only for you
If it’s private, you should not share the boat with other groups.
Must-have
Route flexibility
A great private tour adapts to guests’ pace and priorities.
High value
Clear departure point
Lake Como is long. A convenient departure can change your whole day.
High value

3) Choose the right duration (simple rule that works)

Short tour
  • Best for first-time visitors
  • Quick sightseeing and photos
  • Perfect if you have limited time
Longer experience
  • More relaxed pace
  • More flexibility for stops
  • Better for planning a special moment

4) Timing matters more than people think

On Lake Como, the experience can change dramatically depending on the time of day and season. If you want calmer water and a more relaxed feel, consider earlier or less crowded time slots.

5) The “best” tour is the one that matches your goal

If your goal is comfort
  • Private tour
  • Flexible route
  • Clear inclusions
If your goal is a special moment
  • Private tour
  • Plan timing
  • Communicate preferences in advance
Quick checklist you can copy before booking

Confirm: skipper included, fuel included, private boat only for your group, clear departure point, flexibility of route, duration, and what happens in case of weather changes.

Want a private experience? Read: Private boat tours on Lake Como and check the Lake Como boat tour FAQ. You can also learn what Lake45 is here: What is Lake45.