Is there a fee for the boat ride?

Yes, tickets are purchased at the departure point or online and vary depending on the tour.

How long does the trip last?

The boat ride itself is about 5 minutes each way; time on the island can be as long as you wish within your schedule.

Can I visit the basilica?

Yes, visitors can explore the Basilica di San Giulio during their time on the island.

Are there facilities on the island?

Yes, the island offers small cafes and rest areas but amenities are limited.

Is the boat ride suitable for children?

Absolutely, the short, gentle trip is family-friendly.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Late spring through early fall offers warm weather and clear views.

Water Activities at ORTA - Isola di San Giulio with Navigazione Lago d'Orta | Boat Tour

Set along the serene shores of Lago d'Orta in northern Italy, the boat ride to Isola di San Giulio offers one of the most charming aquatic excursions in the region. This journey combines a quick, scenic transit with opportunities to soak in captivating views of the lake’s crystal-clear waters and lush surrounding landscapes. The 5-minute boat ride departs from the quaint town of Orta, immediately immersing visitors in a tranquil aquatic experience. As the boat glides towards the island, travelers are treated to sweeping vistas of terraced vineyards, historic villas, and the distant Alpine peaks, casting a picturesque backdrop for this short voyage.

Once on Isola di San Giulio, visitors can walk along the narrow, cobbled streets lined with centuries-old buildings that tell stories of local legends and history. The island, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, features a stunning Basilica di San Giulio, with intricate frescoes and a centuries-old bell tower. Wildlife watchers might spot herons and waterfowl as they stroll near the shoreline, while the surrounding waters are home to fish and aquatic insects unique to this pristine environment. The island’s quiet charm makes it a perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activity.

This boat tour is ideal for travelers craving a brief but meaningful outdoor experience—whether you seek relaxing vistas or engaging cultural sights. It’s a perfect addition to a lakeside vacation and a wonderful way to discover one of Italy’s lesser-known, yet profoundly beautiful, water destinations. The trip’s relaxed pace invites exploration at your leisure, making it a standout activity in the heart of Italy’s lakes region. Bring your camera and sense of adventure for a memorable excursion on Lago d'Orta’s shimmering waters.

About Navigazione Lago d'Orta

Navigazione Lago d'Orta operates boat services from Pella in Piemonte, providing reliable passenger transport and scenic cruises on Lake Orta. The operator runs scheduled crossings and special-event cruises connecting Pella, Pettenasco, Omegna, Gozzano, Ronco, Oira, Orta and Isola San Giulio. Offerings include short transfers, full-lake circuits, island trips, evening fireworks cruises and market connections timed for local weekly markets.

Tickets and passes include single-route fares, a day pass for unlimited lake travel, weekly subscriptions, family specials and combined bus-plus-boat options. Many trips list minimum passenger requirements for group departures and some seasonal sailings operate on fixed dates and times. Daily departures allow easy island visits and flexible return options for exploration at leisure.

Navigazione Lago d'Orta emphasizes safety, punctuality and local knowledge, operating from established piers in Pella and nearby towns. The service is suited to families, independent travelers and visitors attending events such as the Omegna fireworks. Limited-capacity cruises are offered for intimate evening experiences and require advance booking.

As a local transport and excursion provider on Lake Orta, the company supports access to popular attractions like the Parco della Fantasia, the village of Orta San Giulio and the historic Isola San Giulio. Third-party reviews, local schedules and official pier information provide up-to-date details for planning travel on the lake. Crew members follow regional safety regulations and provide route information, while timetables vary seasonally; visitors are advised to check departure times, ticket availability and special-event schedules in advance to secure limited seats on popular evening and island routes regularly.