Siora Veronica or, in English, ‘Lady Veronica’, is a historic sailing vessel that was originally built in the early 20th century. She is, in fact, a two-masted, gaff-rigged schooner of the type that was common on Lake Garda at the time.

 

After falling into disuse as a means of transporting freight and passengers, she was eventually abandoned in Toscalano Harbour, on the western side of Lake Garda. However, in 2001, her rusty, dilapidated hulk was rescued and she was lovingly, painstakingly and expensively restored to her former glory. Having originally been named just plain ‘Veronica’, she was rechristened ‘Siora Veronica’ and re-launched in Riva del Garda two years later.

Today, Siora Veronica is exclusively a pleasure craft, available for sailing excursions during the summer season. Whichever route you choose – and do bear in mind that routes may change slightly due to wind and water conditions – you’ll be transported back in time as you glide silently across Lake Garda under the power of the wind alone.

 

Conditions are typically calm and peaceful, so the experience can be enjoyed by even the most fragile sailor. The attractive surrounding scenery, which includes mountains and picturesque town and villages, is the perfect backdrop for cruising Lake Garda aboard Siora Veronica and provides some marvellous photo opportunities.

Siora Veronica is capable of carrying up to 50 passengers, for one-hour, three-hour or full-day tours of Lake Garda, all of which depart from the main harbour in Malcesine. An excursion to Isola del Garda, the largest island on the lake, lasts for about 8 hours and includes lunch and a guided tour of the beautiful Italian and English gardens and part of the elegant Gothic Revival villa, which is still inhabited by its owners, the Borghese Cavazza family. Siora Veronica can also be rented for special occasions, such as anniversaries, birthdays and weddings.