Lake Como Classic Wooden Boat Shared Cruise Como

Cruising Lake Como on a classic wooden boat

Wooden motorboats with varnished decks and leather seats have been part of Lake Como's character for a century, and travelling on one changes the mood of a Lake Como boat tour. The engine is calm, the seats are close to the water and the boat moves at a pace that makes it easy to look, listen and take photographs.

Because the boat is shared and the seating is limited, the group stays small. People often ask whether a classic boat is worth choosing over a standard lake cruise. If you value comfort, atmosphere and photographs over the largest possible itinerary, yes, and the one-hour option is an easy way to try it.

The villas and shoreline of Como's first basin

From the pier in Como the boat follows the western shore, where nineteenth-century villas, stepped gardens and boathouses sit directly on the water. The neoclassical Villa Olmo, the lakeside villages of Cernobbio and Moltrasio and the terraced hillsides give the shoreline its postcard character, and the captain points out the landmarks.

The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y, and Como stands at the southern tip of its western arm. Sailing here is a good introduction to the whole lake even if you have only an hour. If you are searching for the best way to see the Lake Como villas without a car, a boat is easier than the winding lakeside road.

Bellagio on the three- and four-hour cruises

Bellagio is the reason many people choose the longer options. The town sits on the promontory where the lake divides, with stone steps, cafes and small shops that lead uphill from the harbour. The three-hour cruise gives you free time to walk the lanes and enjoy the views over the water.

If you have wondered how to get from Como to Bellagio, a wooden boat is a scenic option, with the lake opening up as you leave the first basin. Meals in Bellagio are not included, so plan lunch or a coffee break during your free time, and keep an eye on the return time.

Varenna on the four-hour cruise

The four-hour cruise adds Varenna, a village on the eastern shore known for its pastel houses, narrow lanes and lakeside walkway. About 40 minutes of free time is enough to see the harbour, wander a few streets and take photographs of the mountains across the water.

Varenna is quieter than Bellagio and pairs well with it, so this is the best option if you want two different villages in one outing. Bring a light jacket, because it can be cool on the water even on a warm day, and check the time at which the boat leaves so you do not miss it.