Lake Como boat rental without a licence

By the Boattripo team · Updated 29 October 2026 · 2 min read

The cruises compared here

Two listings leave from the same lakefront in Como: a charter where you steer, and a guided boat tour. Both are small-group trips and both cancel free up to 24 hours before.

Prices and ratings below were checked on 29 October 2026 and can change.

1How the charter works

You arrive at Lungo Lario Trieste, 28 at the time you chose, get the keys and a short briefing, and head out for 2, 3 or 4 hours. The boat goes back to the same place. The listing is tagged as a private service.

The charter price covers the boat, taxes, GPS and safety equipment. Fuel is paid separately, € 50 according to the listing. If you arrive after your time, the listing adds € 50.

2The guided alternative

The Lake Como boat tour lasts 2 or 3 hours and includes a guide, a glass of wine or prosecco and snacks. A fuel surcharge of € 20 per person (2 hours) or € 30 per person (3 hours) is charged on top. Its route past the villas is described in the listing; the charter has none.

The charter is rated 8.0 from 20 reviews and the guided tour 7.0 from 14, so neither has a large review base yet.

3What the listing does not say

Civitatis does not describe the charter boat's model, engine, covering or seating, and it does not say how far you may go from the pier. Ask the operator through the booking if the destination you have in mind, such as Bellagio, is within the allowed area.

The cruises compared here

Private boat · Day

Como boat charter without a licence

A boat you drive yourself on Lake Como for 2, 3 or 4 hours with no licence required, for up to four people, from € 200 per boat.

from €200

8.0/10 from 20 reviews on Civitatis

  • 4 h
  • Not stated
  • No food
  • Lungo Lario Trieste, 28

Who it suitsSmall groups, couples and families of up to four who want to set their own pace and route and do not hold a boat licence. Rated 8.0 from 20 reviews, and tagged as a private service.

Sources: Civitatis catalogue. Checked on 29 October 2026.

Sightseeing · Day

Lake Como boat tour

A guided boat trip of 2 or 3 hours (you choose when booking) that leaves from the Como lakefront, with a glass of wine or prosecco and snacks included.

7.0/10 from 14 reviews on Civitatis

  • 3 h
  • Not stated
  • Drinks or snacks
  • Lungo Lario Trieste, 28

Who it suitsAnyone who wants to see the lakeside villas from the water with a guide and does not want to drive. The 2-hour ride passes the Life Electric sculpture, the Tempio Voltiano and villas such as Villa Olmo, Villa Erba and Villa Pizzo; the 3-hour ride adds Brienno, Argegno, the island of Comacina and Villa Balbianello.

Sources: Civitatis catalogue. Checked on 29 October 2026.

Quick questions

Do I need a boat licence to rent a boat in Como with Civitatis?

No. The listing is a boat charter without a licence, for up to four people, with a briefing on safe use before you set off.

Is fuel included in the Como boat charter?

No. The listing lists fuel as not included and gives € 50.

Can I cancel the boat charter?

Yes, free up to 24 hours before the activity starts. After that, or if you do not show up, there is no refund.