As winter fades and the alpine peaks begin to thaw, Lake Como awakens with the quiet promise of spring — and with it, the slow and elegant return of boats on the water. On a lake where villas were built to face the water, and entire towns grew around harbors rather than roads, exploring by boat isn’t a luxury — it’s tradition. And spring is the best time to dive into it.
The public boat service (Navigazione Laghi) begins offering more frequent rides starting in March, with full seasonal schedules active by April. This includes a mix of hydrofoils, ferries, and scenic boats. Private boat services typically begin between late March and early April, depending on weather.
Spring offers the perfect balance: the lake is alive with color and motion, but without the overwhelming influx of summer crowds. Prices are better, the light is softer, and the experience feels more intimate.
The Navigazione Laghi system is one of the most scenic and efficient public transport networks in Italy. From short crossings to full-day lake explorations, these boats are the backbone of lake life.
Fast hydrofoils (aliscafi) are ideal for longer routes — from Como to Bellagio or Colico in a fraction of the time. Car ferries (traghetti) operate mostly in the central lake triangle (Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Cadenabbia), perfect if you’re traveling with a car or bike. Larger scenic boats move slowly, making multiple stops — ideal for photography, relaxing, or sunbathing on deck.
You can purchase single tickets, return journeys, or daily passes that allow unlimited travel on most routes. The central lake pass is particularly popular and affordable.
Want to chart your own course? The lake is dotted with private boat rental services offering a wide range of vessels. Electric self-drive boats (license-free) are perfect for beginners or couples — quiet, green, and surprisingly nimble. Vintage wooden boats like the Riva Aquarama are iconic and often captained, ideal for romantic rides or special occasions. You’ll also find modern speedboats and water limousines, with or without a skipper, and some companies offer themed experiences — villa tours, wine tastings aboard, photo shoots, or sunset aperitifs.
Most rental companies operate out of Bellagio, Tremezzo, Varenna, and Como city, and some offer pickup at lakeside hotels or private docks.
Exploring Lake Como by boat reveals details you won’t catch from land. Villa del Balbianello, built on a promontory in Lenno, is breathtaking from the water. James Bond and Star Wars fans will recognize it instantly. Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi both have expansive lakeside gardens that bloom spectacularly in spring. Nesso’s gorge and waterfall are only visible in full from the water, a hidden natural spectacle. Comacina Island, the lake’s only island, is steeped in legend and history, reachable via taxi boat or rented boat. And along the western shore between Lenno and Lezzeno, or near Bellano, you’ll find small, often empty spots to drop anchor and enjoy the silence.
Some of the most magical moments on the lake happen just before sunset. As the sun dips behind the Grigne or the Larian Triangle, the lake takes on golden, pink and violet hues — and many boat tours are designed to match this schedule.
Consider a sunset cruise with aperitivo, or a tour that includes a stop at restaurants with lakeside docks such as Crotto dei Platani in Brienno, Locanda La Tirlindana in Sala Comacina, or La Darsena in Tremezzo.
A few tips before setting off: dress in layers, even on sunny days — the wind can be brisk on the water. Book ahead for private boats, especially on weekends and holidays. Always check wind and weather forecasts, particularly if you’re renting a small or license-free boat. Bring sunglasses, water, and sun protection — spring sun reflects brightly off the lake. Travel light — dry bags or waterproof pouches are essential for phones and cameras.
To explore Lake Como by boat in spring is to take part in a centuries-old tradition. It’s how poets, artists, nobles and travelers first fell in love with these waters. From a boat, the lake becomes a stage — with villas, cliffs, gardens and villages rising like scenes from a play. Whether you glide silently past blooming gardens or feel the rush of wind aboard a hydrofoil, the experience is unforgettable — and completely different from land. The season has begun. And the lake is calling.
