Lake Como, private boat tour recommendation

Based on experience, actually touring both villas in one day would be too much. I'd choose Villa Balbianello, because the tour is well done, and the gardens so beautiful!
Where are you actually staying?
Enjoy this beautiful area!

Thank you! I was thinking that it might be too much and if that's the case, we would want to prioritize Balbinello.
Our base/hotel is in Bellagio. Are there any tours that take you from Bellagio and then up to the Villa Balbinello entrance?

Take the ferry, then either walk to the entrance, about half mile, or take one of the available motor boats to the Villa's dock. A few years back the motorboats were about 5 euros each way, and a nice treat. You really don't need a private tour, just take the house tour the Villa offers. For the gardens, just walk them by yourself. It's all spectacular ! Safe Travels!

Thank you Pat! Appreciate it - very helpful.

We stayed in Bellagio a couple of years ago and used Bellagio Water Limousines for a small group tour of the mid-lake area and a tour of Villa Balbianello. It was a fantastic trip, and the company were wonderful.

They also do private tours, and are located right next to the main ferry dock, so it is very convenient.

http://www.bellagiowaterlimousines.com/

Thank you DebH. I came across them as well and thought they looked great...but they are sadly sold out for the day we need. We're limited by when we are there / when Balbinello is open. And fully recognizing that we are a bit late in planning this!