A short, small group boat ride from Como that delivers close up views of Lake Como's steep shores and historic waterfront villas. Ideal for families and photographers who want a flexible two to four hour cruise with local insight.
A short, small group boat ride from Como that delivers close up views of Lake Como's steep shores and historic waterfront villas. Ideal for families and photographers who want a flexible two to four hour cruise with local insight.
Book with Lario Como Boat
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
21 ratings
Operated by Lario Como Boat · Como, Lombardia
Shared Venetian Taxi Boat on Lake Como is a small group boat experience based in Como, Lombardia, Italy. The cruise runs from two to four hours and carries up to ten passengers, offering intimate views of the lake's steep glacial shorelines, waterfront villas, and quiet fishing villages. You board from a city quay and step into a low profile Venetian style boat that slips smoothly across the water. The captain adjusts the route to match weather and guest interests, so expect open lake crossings and sheltered coves where the water reflects steep slate and limestone slopes. Along the shore you will see terraced gardens, old boathouses, stone piers, and houses that climb the hills toward alpine foothills. Because the boat is shared and limited to ten people, the outing has social energy without the crush of large ferries. The captain points out geological notes, local building styles, and practical landing spots. When conditions allow the group can request a slow pass past a villa or a short swim stop in calm water. Note that tours require a minimum of five guests to depart, so schedules can change during quieter times. This trip is ideal for travelers who want a flexible lake experience. It is an excellent way for families to sample the lake on a modest time window, for couples to steal a scenic afternoon, or for visitors who want photography friendly angles close to the water. Compared with full size ferries, the small boat offers easier boarding, closer photo perspectives, and the freedom to linger in quiet bays. Practical tips make the difference. Dress in layers for wind and sun exposure; mornings are often glassy while afternoons can bring a cooling breeze. Wear shoes with good grip for boarding, and bring a light waterproof in case of spray. If you plan to swim, pack a towel and quick dry swimwear. The low freeboard is ideal for photos but requires attention when stepping on and off the vessel. What makes this operator special is its scale and local focus. Operating out of Como, the shared Venetian taxi gives a concise window into the lake's natural and human story without the crowds that accompany larger services. It is a straightforward and memorable way to experience Lake Como when you have limited time or prefer a more private feeling on the water. Bookings are made online and the trip can be tailored within the two to four hour time frame. Whether you want a short primer before exploring Como or a relaxed afternoon on the water, this shared boat provides a clear, friendly, and authentic way to see the lake. Bring sunscreen and a charged phone for photos and digital maps too.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Light activity; you should be able to step on and off a low boat and sit or move on board for several hours.
Meeting point details are not listed in the provided description; the operator typically sends precise boarding instructions by email after booking.
Yes. The tour requires a minimum of five guests to depart, so itineraries can be adjusted or rescheduled during low demand periods.
Accessibility details are not provided; contact the operator before booking to discuss mobility needs and boarding assistance options.
No cancellation summary was provided; check the operator's booking terms. Trips may be changed or cancelled for safety in poor weather.
No age limits are specified. The small boat is family friendly, but children should be supervised and parents should consider the low freeboard while boarding.
Occasional swim stops are possible when conditions are calm and the captain agrees; always follow the crew's guidance on safety and timing.
Lake Como occupies a glacial basin shaped during the last ice age and its shores have hosted lakeside villas and trade for centuries.
Respect private docks and shoreline gardens, avoid littering, and minimize engine idling in quiet bays to reduce noise and wake impact.
Lario Como Boat is a boat tour operator based in Como, Lombardia. The company offers a range of private and shared boat tours on Lake Como, with trip durations from one hour up to eight hours. Tours listed include private 1‑hour, 2‑hour, 3‑hour, 4‑hour and 5‑hour options, an 8‑hour private tour, shared 2‑hour, 3‑hour and 4‑hour departures, and a 1.5‑hour aperitif private tour. Routes commonly pass iconic lakeside estates and gardens such as Villa Erba, Villa d’Este, Villa Fontanelle and Villa Oleandra. Several tours include stops or optional stops in lakeside towns including Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Varenna. Trips emphasize relaxed sightseeing, swimming opportunities on longer cruises, and customizable itineraries on private tours. The 8‑hour option departs from Tremezzo and can be tailored to guest preferences; the 5‑hour departure from Menaggio highlights local flavors and personalized service. Shared tours provide shorter panoramic routes ideal for brief excursions. The aperitif private tour offers a shorter, scenic cruise focused on sunset views and waterfront architecture. All descriptions, durations and stop locations reflect the operator’s published trip summaries. Travelers seeking direct access to Lake Como villas, villages and waterfront scenery can use the available private and shared options to match schedule and interest. Reservations and specific itinerary requests are typically arranged through the operator’s booking channels. Guests choosing longer private tours often have flexibility for swimming stops, extended visits to lakeside towns, and time to savor local food and views while captains navigate to scenic anchorages for photos and relaxed exploration and comfort.
Book with Lario Como Boat