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Popular boat rental spots on Lake Como include Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. Most towns along the lake have docks or marinas offering rentals.
Boat rentals on Lake Como start around €100–€150 per hour for smaller boats without a captain. Luxury captained boat tours can range from €250 to €500 per hour, depending on the vessel.
You don’t need a license to rent a boat under 40 horsepower. If you're renting a faster or larger boat, or prefer a captained tour, a license or skipper is required.
Yes, captained boat rentals are widely available and are ideal for sightseeing or relaxing without having to steer. Captains are typically locals who can also serve as tour guides.
Top sights include Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, Bellagio’s waterfront, Varenna’s colorful village, and Comacina Island. Many travelers enjoy cruising past historic villas and lakeside towns.
You can rent wooden classic boats (like Riva-style vessels), motorboats, speedboats, and small self-drive boats. Some charters offer luxury yachts for private tours or special occasions.
Common marinas and docks are in Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Cernobbio. Rental companies often launch from these harbors or offer hotel pickup at private docks.
Popular activities include private sightseeing tours, swimming in clear coves, romantic sunset cruises, and visiting towns along the lake. Many people also book boats for proposals or celebrations.
Yes, boat tours are family-friendly and often include shaded seating and safety equipment. Kids love the experience of being on the water, especially with stops for swimming or gelato in town.
Yes, most rentals allow you to bring snacks, drinks, and wine. Some captained tours even include prosecco and appetizers. Be sure to confirm what’s allowed when booking.
The speed limits on Lake Como vary depending on the area and the time of day. In general, speed limits range from 3 to 7 knots (6 to 13 km/h) near the shore and 10 to 12 knots (19 to 22 km/h) in open water. It's important to obey the speed limits and be aware of other boats and swimmers in the water.
The best times of year to go boating on Lake Como are from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny. June, July, and August can be crowded with tourists, so it's best to go early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds. Additionally, the fall season can offer stunning foliage and quieter waters for a more peaceful boating experience.