Lake Garda ferry and boat trips

Read here how to get around Lake Garda by boat

Thanks to the navigation lines that connect the most important lakeside towns, tourists can travel in a relaxing and pleasant way while admiring the beauty of Lake Garda. The ferry service is a public service of the Ministry of Transport that has been active since 1827.

The fastest way to get around is by hydrofoil or catamaran.  Those who prefer to fully enjoy the peace of the lake, can take the slower pleasure boats. It is possible to go from Desenzano to Riva del Garda, passing all the main destinations along the shore of the lake. Ferry prices start from €3 for a one-way ticket and depend on your destination and the type of ferry. There are also day passes available (“daily free circulation tickets”) that enable to travel an entire day without limitations, hopping on and off wherever you like. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices in the ports or on board.

You can even take your car with you: the car ferry between Maderno and Torri del Benaco works all year round; between Limone and Malcesine in summer only.
It is also possible to hire a pleasure boat for a cruise during day or night, for parties, meetings and weddings.
The most notable vessels that offer their navigation services on the lake are the former steamships Italia (600 people) and Zanardelli (500 people), the modern motorships Tonale and Brenner (1000 people), Andromeda (700 people) and the car ferry Brescia (700 people).

For more information, such as timetable and prices, visit the official website.

For those wishing to enjoy a cruise on Lake Garda, it is also possible to go aboard the historic San Nicolò sailing boat, a true symbol of navigation on the lake and certainly the most fascinating way to explore the beauty of Italy's largest lake directly from the water itself.

You can choose between a scenic 2-hour sunset cruise with a drink, and a half-day trip with several stops in the lake's most beautiful locations. It is even possible to hire the boat for a private tour, a great solution for group trips and the most exclusive way to celebrate special occasions.

Have a look at all sailboat tours here!

For those who want to enjoy the beauty of the lake by motorboat, there are various short tours available in the Sirmione and Desenzano region, a half-day cruise to Isola del Garda or private boat trips for a customised Lake Garda experience.

Find the perfect boat trip for you here.