2h Shared Boat Tour From Como

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of Lake Como, surrounded by lush hills, grand villas, and charming villages—without the hassle of organizing your own boat. That’s exactly what this 2-hour shared boat tour offers: an intimate, relaxed way to see some of the most picturesque spots along Como’s western shoreline. Operated by Prestige Tour Italy, this cruise promises a stylish ride on a Cranchi E26 Rider, limited to just eight passengers — making it feel more like a private excursion than a crowded tour.

I love how the tour balances stunning scenery with practical comfort. The boat itself is described as “stylish,” and it’s easy to see why this experience appeals: you get fantastic views of lakeside villas, charming villages, and the natural beauty of the region. Another highlight is the convenient departure point in Como, right at Molo Sant’Agostino, which means no long commutes or transfers — just a short walk from the city center.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is limited to a group of eight, so it’s not ideal for those seeking a large, lively crowd or a more extended cruise. Also, the schedule depends on availability, so it’s best to check in advance. This tour is a fantastic way for anyone wanting a personalized, scenic overview of Lake Como, especially if you enjoy small-group experiences with a touch of luxury.

Key points / Takeaways

• Limited to 8 passengers: Ensures a cozy, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.
• Includes Prosecco and soft drinks: Perfect for toasting the beautiful views without extra charge.
• Start conveniently in Como: The departure point in Como city makes it easy to fit into your itinerary.
• Access to multiple lakeside highlights: From Villa d’Este to Nesso Waterfall, you’ll see some of the most photogenic spots.
• Weather and minimum passenger policies: Full refunds or credits are offered if weather cancels or the minimum isn’t met.
• Duration and itinerary: A well-paced 2 hours with multiple scenic stops, each around 10 minutes, giving ample time for photos and enjoyment.

I’ve always thought that the best way to experience a lake like Como is from the water itself. This tour hits that mark perfectly. For just two hours, you’ll cruise through some of the most notable spots along the western shore. The boat is described as “stylish,” and the small group size keeps the experience personal, which is a plus if you prefer a relaxed, less commercial atmosphere.

The tour begins at Molo Sant’Agostino, right in Como’s heart, which makes it easy to connect with after a morning exploring the city. The departure point is front of Bar Lario, a popular local spot, so you can grab a coffee or snack before heading out. The fact that you’re on a Cranchi E26 Rider, a luxury boat, adds an upscale feel that’s much appreciated in this region known for its Villas and scenery.

What I find particularly appealing is the inclusion of drinks—a bottle of Prosecco, soft drinks, and water—that enhance your cruise without adding to your costs. It’s a nice touch that makes this feel less like a hurried tour and more like a leisurely outing.

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned, with stops at Cernobbio, Villa d’Este, Moltrasio, Laglio, and Nesso Waterfall, among others. Each spot offers a chance to snap photos of beautiful villas, lush gardens, or the dramatic waterfall at Nesso. It’s a great overview of Lake Como’s scenic diversity, without the need to hop on a boat and return immediately.

One aspect to consider is the group size. If you’re after a more private experience, this is ideal. If you prefer larger crowds with more social interaction, this might feel a bit quiet. Also, weather can influence the experience—if the weather turns bad, the tour can be canceled, but full refunds or credits are offered, which adds peace of mind.

Navigating the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

The cruise kicks off at the Lungo Lario Trieste in Como. From there, the boat heads eastward, passing the Villa d’Este—famous for its luxurious gardens and historic elegance. Though you won’t dock here, you’ll enjoy an excellent vantage point to admire its grandeur.

Next, the boat glides toward Cernobbio, a charming lakeside town known for its elegant villas. You’re encouraged to take a quick photo stop here, capturing the lovely lakeside architecture. It’s a good opportunity to appreciate how this small town has become a favorite retreat for the wealthy.

The boat continues to Moltrasio and Laglio, both picturesque villages with colorful houses and lush gardens that spill right down to the water. The scenery here is classic Lake Como, with villas perched on hillsides and boats bobbing in the water.

The Nesso Waterfall is one of the tour’s highlights. Here, the boat stops for about 10 minutes, giving you a chance to marvel at this rugged, natural feature. The waterfall, cascading from a narrow gorge, is a dramatic sight—perfect for photos.

Following Nesso, the boat visits Villa Pliniana, a historic villa with a storied past, and then the Mandarin Oriental hotel, which hints at Como’s reputation for luxury accommodations. These stops are mainly from the water, so you get stunning views and photo opportunities.

Finally, the boat glides towards Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy, a private estate with impressive gardens, before returning to Como’s Molo Sant’Agostino. The entire cruise is filled with breathtaking vistas, from lush gardens to craggy waterfalls and grand villas.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, you’re getting a 2-hour shared boat ride on a luxury Cranchi E26 Rider, with Prosecco, soft drinks, and water included. It’s a good deal considering most private boat rentals for a similar duration can be quite expensive. The small group—no more than 8—ensures a relaxed ambiance, and the boat’s stylish design adds a touch of class.

What’s not included are personal extras or anything not explicitly mentioned, such as tips. The departure point is central in Como, making it easy to access, and the activity ends right back where you start.

The tour is flexible with cancellations, offering full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or if weather conditions force cancellation. This is reassuring because weather on Como can be unpredictable, especially outside the summer months.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Lake Como without committing to a full-day boat or a large group. It suits those who appreciate luxury touches—like drinks on board—and enjoy small, intimate settings. It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time in Como but eager to see its most photogenic spots from the water.

However, if you’re seeking a longer, more in-depth exploration or a lively crowd, you might find this experience a bit limited. It’s best suited for people who value relaxation, comfort, and stunning views above all.

For those wanting a beautiful, hassle-free way to see the lakeside villas and charming villages, this cruise hits the mark. The small group size and high-quality boat make it feel special without the high cost of private charters. The included drinks and central starting point add to the overall value, making it a relaxing, picture-worthy experience.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, the two hours are packed with enough scenic highlights to satisfy most travelers. The carefully planned stops ensure you get good photo opportunities and a taste of Lake Como’s diverse scenery.

If you appreciate personalized, scenic outings and prefer a tranquil cruise over a bustling crowd, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly useful for those who want an easy, elegant introduction to the region’s lakeside treasures.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with a relaxed pace and multiple scenic stops.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Molo Sant’Agostino in Como, right in the city center.

What is included in the price?
You get a shared cruise on a Cranchi E26 Rider, a bottle of Prosecco, soft drinks, and water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations due to weather or insufficient passengers are also fully refunded or credited.

How many people are on the boat?
The group size is limited to eight passengers, making for an intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues, possibly due to boat conditions or safety restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled by the operator in case of poor weather, with a full refund or credit provided.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not included and is optional; you may choose to tip your captain if you enjoyed the experience.

In the end, this boat tour is a charming, scenic way to see Lake Como from a different perspective—relaxing, intimate, and full of photo opportunities. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a taste of lakeside luxury, without the fuss or expense of a private charter.