Can I choose between the North and South tour?

Your tour route depends on your pickup location; some locations allow you to select your preferred route.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour accommodates all ages with a maximum of 4 passengers per boat.

Is food provided on board?

No, but complimentary Prosecco and water are available during the tour.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility details are not specified; please contact the operator to discuss options.

What languages does the captain speak?

The captain is English-speaking, providing clear commentary throughout the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please check directly with Como Classic Boats for cancellation terms at the time of booking.

Explore Lake Como’s Iconic Villas and Towns on the Riva Ariston Romance Tour | Sightseeing Tour | Boat Tour

Glide across the shimmering waters of Lake Como aboard the Riva Ariston - Romance Tour, a private boat excursion offering an intimate and stylish way to experience one of Italy’s most iconic lakes. Departing from the charming town of Laglio in Lombardia, this two-hour journey invites travelers to witness both the architectural grandeur and the natural beauty that have made Lake Como a magnet for centuries of visitors—and a favorite retreat for celebrities like George Clooney. The boat itself, a classic Riva Ariston, evokes the glamour of 1950s Italian design, setting the perfect tone for a graceful cruise. Each tour comes with your own dedicated, licensed English-speaking captain who serves not only as your guide but also as a seasoned local storyteller, sharing intriguing insights about the villas, towns, and landmarks passing by. Plus, a complimentary glass of Prosecco and refreshments onboard add a touch of celebration to the experience. Guests can choose between two distinct routes: the North Tour or the South Tour, depending on your pickup location. The North Tour threads through the jewel-box towns of Bellagio, Tremezzo, Varenna, and the enchanting Comacina Island. Along the way, you’ll marvel at Villas Carlotta and Balbianello, with their storied histories and breathtaking gardens set against the backdrop of the Alps. Alternatively, the South Tour showcases some of the lake’s most opulent estates, such as Villa Erba, Villa D’Este, and the former Versace estate, Villa Fontanelle. Of course, the tour includes a glimpse at Villa Oleandra, George Clooney’s lakeside residence, plus sweeping views of the Roman bridge at Nesso and a glistening waterfall nestled in the cliffs. What sets this boat tour apart is its exclusivity—maximum four passengers per trip—and the seamless, personalized service ensuring you’re never just part of a crowd. The pickup options spread across lakefront towns offer flexibility and convenience for travelers based in Como, Menaggio, Bellagio, and others. Lake Como itself is a setting of rare beauty: steep hillsides dotted with colorful villages, crystal-clear water framed by imposing mountains, and a rich cultural tapestry that invites exploration both on land and water. The Riva Ariston Romance Tour distills all these elements into one effortlessly elegant outing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking romantic moments, or simply eager to see Lake Como’s famed gems from the water, this tour offers a unique vantage point to connect with the landscape and its legacy.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and physical abilities.

Wildlife

Mute swans gliding gracefully on the lake
Colorful kingfishers darting along the shoreline

History

Lake Como has been a destination of aristocrats and artists since Roman times, with many villas dating back to the Renaissance period.

Conservation

Como Classic Boats operates with an emphasis on sustainable tourism, minimizing environmental impact by using well-maintained classic boats and limiting passenger numbers.

Como Classic Boats operates private boat tours on Lake Como, offering curated experiences aboard classic Riva motorboats, vintage-style Venetian limousines and charming vaporina vessels. The company provides a range of guided trips — from three-hour La Dolce Vita cruises to six-hour Wonder Lake journeys — that visit iconic lakeside villas and scenic highlights. Each tour is led by a dedicated, expert captain who provides commentary on local history, villas and landmarks. Popular visit points listed in trip descriptions include Villa D’Este, Villa Oleandra (George Clooney’s residence), Villa del Balbianello, Comacina Island and the Roman bridge at Nesso. Many experiences include complimentary Prosecco, personalized stop options and optional lakeside restaurant lunch stops for longer itineraries. Como Classic Boats offers themed itineraries such as the 007 Tour, Romance and Sunset cruises, as well as Gran Turismo and The Village options. The fleet and trip names indicate a focus on authentic, high-quality vintage boat experiences tailored for couples, families and small groups seeking photographic scenery, private charters and cultural sightseeing. Reservations are available for private charters of varying durations and themes, and the company emphasizes personalized service and safety. Trip summaries specify tour lengths, highlights and onboard amenities so guests can choose tours that match their interests. By combining classic boats, local expertise and curated routes, Como Classic Boats presents a direct way to explore Lake Como’s villas, villages and alpine views through private, guided boat experiences. Booking details, availability and specific boat assignments are listed in each tour description for immediate planning.

Base locationLaglio, Lombardia

Tours offered68+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace