Lake Como: Private Sailing Tour & Aperitif with Skipper

Summary

Sailing lake como’s villas with prosecco breeze and laughter

You’ll sail through Lake Como’s center with a local skipper, sipping prosecco as you pass Villa Melzi Gardens and Villa del Balbianello. Enjoy Italian snacks, stories from your guide, a chance to swim in quiet coves, and moments of real calm you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what those grand villas on Lake Como look like from the water? I did—so we booked this private sailing experience, just us and our skipper Marco (who had that easy Italian charm you can’t fake). The boat was bigger than I expected—38 feet, but somehow still felt cozy. There was this moment when we drifted past Villa Melzi Gardens and Marco pointed out how the cypress trees lined up perfectly with the mountains behind. He handed us cold prosecco and some little bites—salty cheese, olives, something with truffle oil that I still think about—and for a second it was just quiet except for the sound of water tapping the hull. I didn’t expect to feel so far away from everything else.

We sailed close to Villa del Balbianello too—the one from those movies, you know? The wind picked up right then and Marco let us take turns at the wheel. My partner got way too into it (I mostly tried not to spill my drink). The sun kept slipping in and out of clouds; sometimes it was warm on my face, sometimes just cool air off the lake. At one point we anchored in this little cove where nobody else was around. Some people swam—I dipped a toe and chickened out because honestly, that water is brisk even in summer.

Marco told stories about growing up around here—how his dad taught him to sail on these same waters. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Balbianello” properly (I definitely butchered it). There was music if you wanted it, or just the hush of sails overhead. We could’ve stayed longer but time sort of slipped by without us noticing. If you’re looking for a day trip on Lake Como that feels both relaxed and quietly special—yeah, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail Lake Como and view villas

• Board 38-foot boat with private skipper
• Observe Villa Melzi from the lake
• Observe Villa del Balbianello from the lake
• Enjoy prosecco and Italian food tasting
• Relax while sailing and listening to music
• Optional swim in exclusive lake spots

Top questions

Is swimming included during the Lake Como sailing tour?

Yes, there are stops where you can swim in exclusive spots if you want.

What food and drinks are served on board?

The tour includes an Italian aperitif with prosecco and small tastings of typical Italian foods.

Are children allowed on this private sailing experience?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; life jackets are available for them.

Which villas can be seen during the sailing trip?

You’ll see Villa Melzi Gardens and Villa del Balbianello from the water.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat.

Are service animals permitted during the tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Does the Lake Como sailing tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

How many people will be on board?

This is a private sailing experience for your group only.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered, Italian snacks plus prosecco or soft drinks served onboard, time to swim if you want, and there’s even a restroom on the boat for comfort along the way.