2H Private Cruise on Lake Como Tender yacht Invictus 9 pax

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of Italy’s most glamorous lake on a sleek private yacht. That’s essentially what this 2-hour private cruise on Lake Como promises. Offered by The Black Pearl, this experience pairs the elegance of a tender yacht with the intimacy of a private trip, perfect for those looking to soak in the scenery without the crowds.

What we love most is how personalized the experience feels—your own captain, Luca, who’s not only a skilled mariner but also a true storyteller, sharing insights about the villas and hidden corners of Lake Como. Plus, the views are undeniably stunning, especially as you pass by the many legendary villas like George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra.

That said, a minor consideration might be the boat’s capacity and the fact that the trip is quite compact—it’s only about two hours, so those craving more extensive exploration might want to look at longer options. But overall, this cruise suits travelers who value local knowledge, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a taste of Lake Como’s luxurious side in a manageable, intimate outing. If you’re after a quick but meaningful glimpse of the lake’s most famous sights, this cruise is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored and relaxed outing.
• Expert Guide & Captain: Luca, a passionate storyteller who can entertain in multiple languages—Italian, English, and French.
• Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems: Pass by famous villas, including George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, and learn stories about the area’s most iconic spots.
• Quality Boat & Comfort: The Pegaso 22 is a well-equipped, elegant vessel with a sun deck, silent engine, and capacity for up to 9 passengers.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple scenic stops along the western shore, from Cernobbio to Laglio, with free admission to many sights.
• Excellent Reviews & High Satisfaction: The tour boasts a near-perfect rating of 5.0 based on 24 reviews, with comments praising the guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point: Como

Your adventure begins at the Lungo Lario Trieste pier in Como, where the captain awaits at the Lario bar. This spot is conveniently near public transport, making it easy to reach. After a quick briefing, your private vessel, the Pegaso 22, will set sail into the lake’s calm waters. The boat’s powerful yet silent 260 Hp engine promises a comfortable, noise-free ride, so you can soak in the scenery without engine noise spoiling the moment.

Cernobbio – Villa Erba & Villa Le Fontanelle

As you cruise past Tavernola and Cernobbio, you’ll admire Villa Erba, a glamorous estate that hosted celebrities and events, including the 2019 visit of the Obamas and George Clooney. The boat passes close enough to appreciate its grandeur without the crowds of visiting by land. You’ll then reach the Punta Pizzo area, where the Villa Le Fontanelle once belonged to Gianni Versace. The view of the octagonal church inside the property, rentable for private weddings at around €15,000 an hour, is a highlight.

Moltrasio & Laglio – Home of a Star Villa

Continuing along the western shore, the boat passes through Moltrasio and Carate Urio, before arriving in Laglio, home to George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra. The reviews mention that many travelers find this sight especially memorable, with one reviewer noting they enjoyed seeing the villa’s imposing presence from the water, adding to the sense of exclusivity and luxury.

Isola Comacina – The Unique Island of Lake Como

The cruise then moves toward Isola Comacina, Italy’s only island on Lake Como, passing charming villages like Brienno and Argegno. The island has historical significance and a lovely restaurant, Il Crotto dei Platani, known for its caves once used by smugglers. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see lesser-known landmarks, adding depth to the experience.

Orrido Di Nesso & Roman Bridge

As the boat loops back along Nesso’s coast, you’ll spot the Orrido di Nesso, a dramatic gorge with a waterfall, and the historic Roman bridge, perfect for photography and appreciating the area’s natural beauty.

Tying Up at Torno & Blevio

The boat then cruises past Villa Pliniana, famous for ghost stories and its lush surroundings, and the recently renovated Grand Hotel “Il Sereno”. Passing through Torno and Blevio, you’ll see villas like Villa Troubetzkoy and the Mandarin Oriental, adding to the sense of Lake Como’s high-end allure.

Return to Como

The journey concludes back at the starting point, with a last glimpse of the lake’s picturesque shoreline. The entire trip offers a well-rounded mix of iconic villas, natural wonders, and charming villages—all from the comfort of your private vessel.

The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides like Luca play a big role in making this tour special. One reviewer praised the captain as “passionate about his job and Lake Como,” which adds a warm, authentic touch to the experience. Others appreciated the stunning views and the chance to learn about the area’s most famous villas and hidden spots.

A few considerations from past travelers include the boat’s capacity—it’s suitable for up to 9 passengers, but one review mentioned it felt more like 6-8 in practice, so if you are planning a larger group, check with the provider. Also, the timing is tight—at just two hours, it’s a quick taste rather than a deep exploration. If you’re after a leisurely, longer cruise, you might want to look for extended options.

Price & Value

At roughly $1,185 for a group of up to 9, this tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized service and the exclusivity of a private boat. When you factor in the scenic stops and the expert narration, it’s a memorable way to see Lake Como without the hassle of crowded tours or larger groups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends, or even families wanting a unique outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate local stories, luxurious surroundings, and personalized service. If you’re someone who enjoys stunning scenery paired with expert guide narration, you’ll find plenty to love.

The Sum Up

All in all, this 2-hour private yacht tour on Lake Como strikes a fine balance between elegance, intimacy, and stunning scenery. The boat’s comfort and the captain’s knowledge make for an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching. While the duration may feel brief, it’s enough to give you a solid overview of the lake’s highlights, especially if time is limited.

The tour’s high ratings and positive reviews suggest that most travelers leave with a sense of having enjoyed a truly special slice of Lake Como’s luxurious lifestyle. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a private, scenic, and insider’s perspective on this iconic lake.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for small children?
Yes, the tour can accommodate families, but keep in mind the boat’s size and the two-hour duration. Always check with the provider about specific needs.

What language does the guide speak?
Luca, the captain, can entertain in Italian, English, and French, making it accessible for international travelers.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat comfortably holds up to 9 passengers, but reviews suggest it might feel more like 6-8 in practice.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lungo Lario Trieste, 26 in Como, and returns there at the end of the cruise.

Are tickets included?
Most sights visible from the boat are free to view, but some villas like Villa Le Fontanelle are private and not open to the public.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the captain acts as a guide, sharing stories and insights about the area while navigating.

How far in advance should I book?
Average booking is about 44 days ahead, so planning early ensures availability.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the route is fairly fixed, private tours often allow some flexibility—check with the provider for special requests.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, the guide, and the scenic stops—no additional fees unless you choose private villa rentals or similar.

This private Lake Como cruise offers a refined balance of scenic beauty, personalized storytelling, and comfort. Perfect for those who want a quick but memorable glimpse of one of Italy’s most enchanting lakes—without the crowds.