Top 5 Private Boat Tours on Lake Como for Families

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations — a place where dramatic mountains meet crystal-clear waters and colorful villages line the shore. While the lake is often associated with romance and luxury, it’s also a wonderful destination for families, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

One of the best ways to experience it all? A private boat tour.
Exploring Lake Como by boat allows families to enjoy privacy, flexibility, and fun at their own pace — without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities to swim, play, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Here’s a curated list of the Top 5 Private Boat Tours on Lake Como for Families, complete with ideas for itineraries, must-see stops, and tips to make your day on the lake unforgettable.

1. The Classic Family Tour: Como → Cernobbio → Moltrasio → Laglio

Duration: 2–3 hours
Perfect for: Families with young children or those looking for a short, relaxing experience

This route starts from Como, the lake’s southernmost town, and follows the scenic western shore. Along the way, you’ll pass by elegant villas, lush gardens, and peaceful lakeside towns.

Highlights include:

Villa Olmo: A neoclassical masterpiece surrounded by a beautiful park.
Cernobbio: Home to the famous Villa d’Este, a world-renowned luxury hotel.
Laglio: A quiet village known for its charm — and for being George Clooney’s retreat!

The calmer waters in this area make it perfect for families with small children. You can stop for a quick swim, take photos in front of stunning villas, and even enjoy a gelato at a lakeside café.

Tip: Choose a morning departure to avoid strong afternoon winds and ensure calm, smooth sailing.

2. Bellagio & Varenna Explorer: The Central Lake Adventure

Duration: 4–5 hours
Perfect for: Families with older kids who love sightseeing and adventure

This tour covers the heart of Lake Como, where the three branches of the lake meet. It’s the most scenic area, full of famous villas, picturesque towns, and incredible photo opportunities.

Highlights include:

Villa del Balbianello (Lenno): A cinematic location featured in Star Wars and James Bond.
Villa Carlotta (Tremezzo): A must-visit for its botanical gardens and art collection.
Bellagio: Known as “The Pearl of the Lake,” this elegant village is perfect for a family stroll.
Varenna: A colorful fishing village ideal for lunch or gelato by the water.

Many families love this route because it combines fun and culture. You can visit gardens, walk through small alleys, or simply enjoy the view while kids take a swim near Lenno or Tremezzo.

Tip: Pack swimsuits — the area around Lenno is one of the safest and most beautiful for swimming.

3. The Secret Coves Tour: Discover Hidden Spots by Boat

Duration: 3–4 hours
Perfect for: Families who want privacy, nature, and adventure

This tour focuses on exploring the less crowded parts of Lake Como, where you’ll find secret coves, quiet beaches, and charming little villages far from the tourist crowds.

Possible stops:

Argegno: A lovely starting point for discovering hidden spots.
Brienno: One of the lake’s oldest villages, full of tunnels and stone houses.
Nesso: Famous for its natural waterfall, Orrido di Nesso, visible from the boat.

Your skipper can anchor in a peaceful bay where the kids can swim, play, or even try steering the boat for a few moments under supervision — an unforgettable thrill for them!

Tip: Bring snorkeling masks or water toys. The clear waters near Nesso and Brienno are ideal for family fun.

4. Full-Day Family Cruise: Lake Como Grand Tour

Duration: 6–8 hours
Perfect for: Families who want a full day of exploration and relaxation

This ultimate Lake Como experience covers several highlights in one day. Departing from Como or Bellagio, you’ll sail through the central lake, stopping at beautiful towns and secret bays along the way.

Suggested itinerary:

Start from Como, pass Cernobbio and Laglio
Stop at Villa del Balbianello and Tremezzo for sightseeing
Enjoy lunch in Bellagio at a lakeside restaurant
Spend the afternoon relaxing or swimming near Varenna or Menaggio

A full-day private tour gives your family the freedom to enjoy the lake without rushing. You can swim, have a picnic on board, or stop at charming towns for lunch and gelato.

Tip: Ask your skipper to time the return around sunset — the golden light on the lake is breathtaking and perfect for family photos.

5. Sunset & Aperitivo Family Cruise

Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Perfect for: Families looking for a relaxing evening experience

End your day on Lake Como with a peaceful sunset boat tour. As the sun sets behind the mountains, the lake glows with golden and pink reflections — a magical moment for both adults and kids.

What makes it family-friendly:

Calm waters and mild temperatures in the evening
Kids can relax after a busy day exploring
Parents can enjoy an aperitivo on board with prosecco and snacks

You’ll pass by villages like Cernobbio, Moltrasio, and Torno, all beautifully illuminated as night falls. It’s a tranquil and unforgettable way to wrap up your Lake Como adventure.

Tip: Bring light jackets and your camera — evening light is perfect for family portraits!

What to Expect on a Family-Friendly Private Boat Tour

Booking a private boat tour with a professional company like Vaba Boats ensures safety, comfort, and flexibility for families of all sizes.

Here’s what’s typically included:

Experienced English-speaking skipper
Fuel and insurance
Sun deck and shade area
Safety equipment for kids
Bluetooth sound system
Complimentary water or soft drinks

Many boats also feature comfortable seating, swim ladders, and sun protection — all essential for a family day on the lake.

Practical Tips for Families

Bring essentials: sunscreen, hats, towels, swimsuits, and snacks.
Book in advance: Lake Como is very popular in summer, especially for private tours.
Choose morning or evening tours: calmer waters and milder temperatures.
Ask for a child-friendly skipper: experienced captains know how to make kids feel safe and involved.
Combine your tour with a visit: stop for lunch in Bellagio or an ice cream in Varenna.

Why Choose Vaba Boats for Your Family Tour

At Vaba Boats, we specialize in creating unforgettable private boat tours on Lake Como for families.
Our fleet includes modern, comfortable boats equipped with everything you need for a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

With local skippers who know every corner of the lake, you’ll get insider stories, secret swimming spots, and the freedom to design your perfect itinerary.

Whether you want a half-day adventure, a full-day cruise, or a sunset family experience, Vaba Boats ensures fun, relaxation, and lifelong memories for every member of your family.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour on Lake Como is the ultimate family activity — a perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and serenity.
Children will love the thrill of being on a boat, spotting waterfalls and villas, while parents can unwind and enjoy the scenery in total comfort.

Every turn of the lake offers a new surprise — a hidden cove, a charming town, a view that takes your breath away.

So next time you’re planning a family trip to Italy, don’t just visit Lake Como — experience it from the water.
Book your private family boat tour with Vaba Boats and create memories that will last a lifetime.

👉 Ready to plan your family adventure?
Visit www.vababoats.com to discover the best private boat tours on Lake Como and customize your dream experience for the whole family.