Como: Wooden Boat Private Tour with Sun Cover and Skipper

A private wooden boat tour on Lake Como offers a chance to see Italy’s most glamorous lake from a unique perspective. This experience, provided by Shusciu Nautical Division, combines the charm of a handcrafted boat with the comfort of a sun cover and the expertise of a knowledgeable skipper. With options ranging from one to four hours, it’s flexible enough to fit into various schedules and interests.

What I particularly love about this tour is the carefully designed balance between comfort and authenticity. The en suite boat, launched just in July 2023 and impeccably refitted in November 2024, boasts fine wood details from Lake Como’s renowned shipyard — a real treat for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Plus, the sun cover means this trip can be enjoyed in all weather conditions, shielding you from the sun or unexpected rain, which is often overlooked in outdoor tours.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the extra cost for fuel, which is charged separately at 50 EUR per hour. If you’re on a tight budget, this adds to the initial price, but given the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience, many find it worthwhile. Also, the tour does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the dock at S. Agostino pier.

This private tour offers a fantastic way to soak up Lake Como’s beauty. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a personal touch and insider knowledge, with guides and skippers who’ve been in the business for over 20 years. Expect stunning views, elegant villas, and memorable moments — with a few caveats about cost and logistics.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic craftsmanship: The boat features finely crafted wood details from Lake Como’s shipyard, combining beauty and quality.
• Flexible duration: Tours are available from 1 to 4 hours, letting you choose how much of the lake you want to explore.
• Comfort in all weather: The sun and rain cover allows for year-round cruising, making this experience reliable regardless of the weather.
• Personalized experience: With a dedicated skipper and private group setting, this tour offers tailored commentary and flexibility.
• Stunning scenery: Expect views of luxury villas, lush hills, and picturesque towns like Tremezzo, Cernobbio, and Nesso.
• Additional costs: Fuel is charged separately at 50 EUR per hour, which means the total cost can vary based on your chosen route and time.

Discover Lake Como by Private Wooden Boat: An In-Depth Review

If you’re dreaming of visiting Italy’s most photographed lake, Lake Como, a private boat tour might be just the thing to elevate your experience. While many travelers admire the lakeside villas or stroll through charming towns, seeing Lake Como from the water offers an entirely different perspective. Shusciu Nautical Division’s Wooden Boat Private Tour combines craftsmanship, comfort, and local knowledge into a package that’s ideal for those craving intimacy and authenticity.

Why Choose This Tour?

What draws most travelers to this experience is the personal touch. Unlike crowded group tours, this private trip ensures you can soak up the scenery at your own pace, ask questions, and even get some tips or stories about the sights. The boat itself, launched in 2024 and meticulously refurbished in 2024, is a piece of art—built with fine wood details that echo Lake Como’s long-standing shipbuilding tradition. It’s a kind of floating treasure chest that offers both style and comfort.

Two standout features make this experience particularly appealing. First, the covering sunshade means you’re shielded from the elements, allowing you to enjoy the lake on those hot, sunny days or in drizzly weather without worry. Second, the expert guides and skippers, many with over 20 years of experience, know the ins and outs of the area, making every moment informative and engaging. It’s these personalized details that turn a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure.

That said, a small caveat worth considering is the additional fuel charge. At 50 EUR per hour, this cost can add up for longer trips, making it slightly pricier than some fixed-price tours. Yet, in exchange, you get exclusivity, expert commentary, and the chance to see sights like the towns of Tremezzo, Bellagio, and Villa del Balbianello from a viewpoint few get to experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting at the S. Agostino floating pier, you’ll meet your skipper—likely someone like Gianluca or Ricardo, who receive glowing reviews for their friendliness and knowledge. From there, the itinerary is flexible but generally includes passing by the charming towns of Blevio, Torno, Moltrasio, Laglio, Cernobbio, and Nesso, with some routes also taking you past the iconic Isola Comacina and even to the lakeside splendor of Bellagio.

The stops are thoughtfully planned for photo opportunities and short visits. For example, the brief 10-minute pause in Moltrasio has been praised for its perfect balance—enough for a snapshot but not time-consuming. Guides are known for sharing interesting facts about the villas and waterfalls visible along the way, adding depth that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. One reviewer, “Kal,” highlighted how Gianluca shared just the right amount of information, making the two-hour tour perfect for covering key highlights.

The Scenic Highlights

Lake Como’s natural beauty is so compelling that even a quick tour feels like stepping into a postcard. You’ll see the lush, green hills dotted with luxurious villas and historic buildings. The water reflects the sky and mountains like a mirror, giving you picture-perfect views from every angle.

Many reviews emphasize how guides enhance the trip with their local knowledge. For instance, “Elizabeth” appreciated how helpful and kind Captain Josh was, tailoring the experience to her needs. Another reviewer, “Zishuo,” loved that their captain helped with taking photos and even let a friend drive the boat—a rare and fun perk.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour typically begins at the S. Agostino pier, where you’ll meet your skipper and get settled. The first impressions of the boat are immediately favorable—sleek, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with cushions and lighting for sunset cruises. Once underway, the boat glides smoothly past Blevio and Torno, both charming towns with lakeside cafes and narrow streets.

A highlight is the photo stop in Moltrasio, where the 10-minute pause offers a great chance to snap shots of regal villas and the surrounding mountains. Passing by Laglio, you might recognize some villas from famous movies, adding a touch of cinematic magic. The route continues to Cernobbio—home to grand hotels and lush gardens—and then circles back toward Como, completing the loop.

Some routes extend as far as Bellagio or Varenna, depending on your time and interests. The flexible itinerary allows your skipper to tailor the trip, which many reviews say is a major plus—“Josh” and “Ricardo” are praised for their accommodating nature.

The Value and Cost

While the base price covers the boat, skipper, soft drinks, and water, the fuel surcharge of 50 EUR per hour means total costs can add up, especially for longer routes. However, when you consider the level of personalization, craftsmanship of the boat, and the stunning scenery, most travelers find it to be money well spent.

This experience is perfect for those who want a luxurious yet authentic taste of Lake Como without the crowds. It’s also a good pick for couples, small groups, or families seeking a memorable, private outing. Being able to enjoy a boat built with local craftsmanship and driven by experienced guides adds a layer of value that many standard tours can’t match.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re intrigued by boats with character, enjoy scenic vistas, and want insider insights about the lake’s most beautiful spots, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who value privacy and personal service. Those who appreciate craftsmanship and detailed stories about the villas or waterfalls will also find this trip rewarding.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or need a quick, inexpensive snapshot of Lake Como, this might feel a bit luxurious. Also, travelers with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments, given the logistical setup.

FAQs: Practical Questions About the Wooden Boat Tour

How long can I book the tour for?
You can choose from 1 to 4 hours, giving you flexibility based on your schedule and how much you want to see.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the S. Agostino floating pier in front of the Lario bar and ends at the same location.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks and bottled water are provided. If you prefer wine or prosecco, ask the driver before starting—these can be arranged.

Is there any additional cost?
Yes, the fuel surcharge of 50 EUR per hour is paid at the end of the trip, which can make the total price vary depending on the route and duration.

Is the boat suitable in bad weather?
Absolutely. The boat has a sun and rain cover, so you can enjoy your tour regardless of weather conditions.

Can I bring my camera to take photos?
Definitely. The scenic stops and boat’s design are perfect for capturing memories.

Is this experience suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments, and children should be supervised, especially during stops.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your passport or ID, and perhaps sunglasses or a hat for sun protection.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the dock in Como.

To sum it up, the Wooden Boat Private Tour on Lake Como offers a blend of elegance, intimacy, and stunning scenery. It’s a fine choice for those who want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides and a beautifully crafted vessel. While the extra fuel cost is something to consider, many find the overall value worth it, especially given the authentic craftsmanship and the chance to see some of the most picturesque spots around the lake. If you love boats, scenic views, and a touch of luxury, this tour should definitely be on your Lake Como bucket list.