The most beautiful sailing excursions on Lake Garda

The most beautiful sailing excursions on Lake Garda

Craving a sense of freedom? Water and wind are elements that awaken just that. That’s why a sailing excursion on Lake Garda is such a thrilling way to enjoy an intense yet relaxing day on the Benaco.

It takes very little—just a few hours in contact with these elements—to make a weekend or holiday truly unforgettable. After all, Lake Garda is full of spectacular places, with unexpected views to discover from the water, whether during the day or at sunset. Boarding a boat with an experienced skipper makes the whole experience even more special. So let’s take a look at the most magical spots for an unforgettable and immersive sailing trip on Lake Garda.

Sailing excursions on Lake Garda: panoramic tours and sunset aperitifs

You don’t have to be an old sea dog to appreciate the sailing experiences on Lake Garda. This lake is almost always calm, enchanting in its beauty, with villages and hills mirrored in the water, the light reflecting in different ways throughout the day: the perfect backdrop for fantastic sailing excursions.

These are experiences to enjoy quality time with family or small groups—ideal for celebrating special occasions like International Women’s Day, as a unique Valentine’s Day idea, or even as a graduation gift. A wonderful activity to soak up some relaxing moments on holiday, without having to think about anything except the gentle breeze on your skin and the enchanting scenery. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? To help you decide, here are some useful tips for a truly special boat trip.

Sailing excursions from Toscolano Maderno

From Toscolano, you can board a sailing boat and navigate along the western shore of Lake Garda. From this privileged viewpoint, you’ll admire stunning attractions and landscapes—from the liberty-style architecture of Fasano to the Vittoriale park in Gardone Riviera, from the silhouettes of Isola del Garda and Isola dei Conigli to the tranquil waters of Salò. For unforgettable moments with family or friends, you could opt for a private cruise with lunch on board: a light meal accompanied by a good glass of wine, before setting off on a memorable journey. If you're after a romantic experience instead, consider a sunset sailing trip with aperitif—savouring fine wine and a selection of finger foods while the sun dips below the horizon.

Sailing excursions from Peschiera del Garda

If you’ve got an explorer’s spirit and can’t wait to discover unique places—like the Grotte di Catullo and the Sirmione peninsula with its Scaligero Castle—then you might want to book a sailing trip from Peschiera to Sirmione. Departing from Peschiera del Garda’s harbour, you’ll cross the southern basin of the lake, guided by professional skippers, with the option to stop for a bit of fun—splashing about and diving in. This experience is also available in the evening—or better still, at sunset—while enjoying a superb aperitif with wine and snacks, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Garda and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Sailing excursions from Desenzano del Garda

Have you ever travelled on a 9-metre-long sailing boat? If you’d like to try this exclusive experience on Lake Garda, you can join a sailing trip with a skipper and professional sailors. The tour departs from Desenzano’s pier and heads north towards the Rocca di Manerba, passing the protected beach of Pisenze, Isola dei Conigli, and Isola del Garda—with the option to enjoy lunch (or an afternoon snack, depending on the time). If, instead, you’re looking for a couples' experience or want to capture some spectacular photos of Lake Garda, you might choose a sunset sailing trip, where the interplay of light and reflections on the water creates something truly unique.

Lake Garda: a paradise for sailing lovers (and beyond)

Lake Garda has a strong tradition of sailing schools and is a top destination for those who practise this and other water sports at all levels. Thanks to its ideal location, the lake enjoys steady winds throughout the day—most notably the Pelèr blowing from the north in the morning, and the Ora blowing from the south from around noon until sunset.

In Desenzano, Peschiera, and Toscolano Maderno you’ll find some well-known sailing centres, as well as in Bardolino, Brenzone, and Malcesine in the province of Verona, and Nago-Torbole and Riva del Garda in the province of Trento. These are just some of the popular spots where you’ll find sailing schools and can take lessons, even with no prior sailing experience. And from Desenzano, Peschiera, and Toscolano Maderno, you’ll find some of the most beautiful private sailing excursions on Lake Garda.

Love boat trips? There’s more to discover on Lake Garda

In addition to the sailing trips we’ve mentioned, you can also hop aboard a boat to explore the area by motorboat or even try your hand at fishing. A trip on a luxury boat, like the iconic Riva, is a fantastic way to spend quality time with a loved one or friends while soaking up the local scenery.

If you’re holidaying with children or teens, a great option could be taking part in a fun and original activity like sardine fishing—an opportunity to experience a traditional ritual at the best time of day: late afternoon, when the waters are warm and calm. The excursion is for a maximum of three people, starting from age five. And what about trying your luck at catching coregone? This lake fish, considered a local delicacy, is one you might even catch yourself. If you're up for it, a skipper will know exactly where to take you to find this and other freshwater fish.

Why choose NowMyPlace for sailing excursions on Lake Garda

We’re experience hunters and passionate travellers—just like you. We know that those visiting a destination want to discover its hidden gems, immerse themselves in its culture, and soak it all in. Our mission is to satisfy your curiosity with hand-picked experiences that reveal the lesser-known side of the places you visit.

But what matters most to us isn’t just sending you home with unforgettable memories of your time on Lake Garda. We care deeply about your safety and only work with qualified professionals. For our sailing trips and boat excursions, we select experienced guides, instructors, and skippers who can answer any questions and help you make the most of your outing.

Trekking, water sports, yoga classes, e-bike tours—there are so many ways to experience Lake Garda, and we’re always on the lookout for new and exciting ones! Because the value of time is measured by the intensity of the emotions you feel in every moment—and on Lake Garda, every moment can be truly magical. Discover all the experiences on Lake Garda with NowMyPlace!