Aboard the historic ferry!
A holiday on Lake Como is an experience of wellness and relaxation; there is the possibility of enjoying the typical Italian atmosphere and local flavours, of hiking in nature, or why not, even of experiencing emotions out of time!
If you are a history lover and want a unique experience on the Lake, then you should organize a trip on a historic boat! On Lake Como, the motor vessel “Milano” and the historic steamship “Concordia” provide this truly unique and evocative service.
A bit of history: the “Milano”…
The motor vessel “Milano”, an example of “floating” Art Nouveau style, was launched in 1904 as a paddle steamer. It was modernized in 1926, replacing the wheels with a more modern propeller.
The boat is equipped with large outdoor spaces, particularly suitable in summer; inside there are two comfortable passenger lounges and a bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail or a snack from the kitchen while breathing in an atmosphere of the early 1900s.
Refurbished several times, the “Milano” returned to service in 2024, and is preparing to celebrate 100 years as a motor vessel in 2026.
In short, sailing on this boat will be an unforgettable experience, which will allow you to travel on Lake Como in full Belle Époque style!
… and the “Concordia”!
The steamship “Concordia” was launched in 1926 with the name “28 Ottobre”. Equipped with a coal-fired steam engine, it was renamed “Concordia” in 1943, after the fall of the fascist regime.
In 1950 the coal power was replaced and the boilers have been repeatedly renewed over the years. In 2010 it was also rented by the famous actor George Clooney, owner of a luxurious villa on Lake Como.
An authentic vintage boat, its propulsion is still by wheels, powered by a steam engine. Equipped with a bar and restaurant on board, it is characterized by two internal rooms in Art Nouveau style, ideal for sailing in authentic 1900s style!
The return of the “Patria”?
In 2023, the recovery of the steamship “Patria”, sister ship of the “Concordia”, was also announced.
Launched in 1926 with the name “Savoia”, and renamed in 1943, it was bombed in 1945, causing a fire on board.
Returned to service and modernized, it was decommissioned in 1990 and transferred to the province of Como in 2001. In 2023 it was loaned to Navigazione Laghi.
In 2024, the project for its restoration was unveiled, which also includes the recovery of the original decorations and the enhancement of its historical features. The boat is scheduled to restart in 2026.
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So, what are you waiting for? Give your holiday on Lake Como a unique touch by organizing a vintage cruise! To complete the experience, you could reach the lake aboard a historic steam train!
For information, sailing times and special initiatives on historic boats, we recommend you consult the main news sites regarding Lake Como, and the official website of Navigazione Laghi.