boat trip in geneva

THE 5 BEST Geneva Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in geneva.

• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Boat Rentals
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Jet d'Eau
• Lake Geneva
• Palais des Nations
• Mon-Repos Park
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Geneva 3-hour Chocolate Tasting Tour and Old Town Visit

2. (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif

3. Geneva: Private Cruise on Lake Geneva with Aperitif

4. Geneva and Annecy Tour With Optional Lake Geneva Cruise

5. Private sailing cruise on Lake Geneva from Geneva

6. Best of Geneva City Tour with optional boat cruise

7. Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva

8. Private Trip from Geneva to Montreux through Lausanne

9. Private Trip from Geneva to Annecy in France

What travelers are saying.

Navigate to myswitzerland.com

Destinations

Your swiss holiday time.

Holiday destinations

• Summer holiday destinations
• Winter sports & ski resorts
• Family destinations

Attractions

• Top attractions
• UNESCO World Heritage sites / biospheres
• Travel by train, bus or boat
• Top museums
• Swiss Parks
• Scenic nature

Experiences

Additional content about subnavigation experiences.

• Family excursions
• Food & Wine
• Group excursions
• Guided tours

Summer & Autumn

• Bicycle & Mountain bike
• Adventure & Sports Summer
• Zoo & animal experiences
• Ski and snowboard
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoe and winter hiking
• Tobogganing
• Winter excursions
• Christmas in Switzerland

Cities & culture

• Parks, Gardens and Squares
• Architecture

Experience Tour

• Car, motorcycle - Grand Tour
• Train, bus, boat – Grand Train Tour
• Mountain excursions

Accommodation

• Typically Swiss Hotels
• Wellness & Spa
• Family Hotels
• Bike Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Inspiring Meeting Hotels
• Swiss Historic Hotels
• Luxury hotels
• Winter sports hotels

Other types of accommodation

• On the farm
• Bed and Breakfast
• Mountains huts
• Group accommodation

Transport & Stay

• Travel to Switzerland
• Barrier-free travel
• Tickets public transport
• Service & support
• Money and shopping

About Switzerland

• General facts
• Custom and tradition
• History of Switzerland
• The Swiss Art and Culture Scene
• Health Travel
• Sustainability

Weather & Climate

• Climate in Switzerland
• Snow Report
• Water and pool temperatures
• City offers
• Touring offers
• Wellness offers
• Nature and outdoor offers
• Offers for families

Where are you from?

• België (Nederlands)
• Belgique (Français)
• Deutschland
• Netherlands
• Russia (Россия)
• Schweiz (Deutsch)
• Suisse (Français)
• Svizzera (Italiano)
• Switzerland (English)
• United Kingdom
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• China 中文简体
• China 中文繁体
• Gulf countries العربية
• Japan 日本
• Korea 한국어
• United Arab Emirates
• New Zealand
• International

Language, region and important links

• Slovenština

Service Navigation

• Help & Contact

Lake Geneva Cruises

CGN SA Avenue de Rhodanie 17 Case postale 390 1001 Lausanne Phone  +41 (0)84 881 18 48 cgn.ch

Boat cruising on Central Europe’s largest inland lake every which way. Passengers can embark and disembark on the Swiss as well as the French side of the lake.

The Belle Époque boats have been navigating Central Europe’s largest inland lake for 140 years and offer fantastic cruises between France and Switzerland. The views from the boat extend from harbours and castles (Chillon, Morges, Rolle, Yvoire among others) over vineyards (Lavaux UNESCO and La Côte) to the snow-covered summits of the Swiss and Savoyan Alps. The boat landings are starting points for many exploration activities like city tours (Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, Vevey).

Excursion tips

• The Olympic Museum
• The cathedral of Lausanne
• Chaplin's World
• Cheese train

Food & Beverages

General information, discover the surroundings.

CGN SA Avenue de Rhodanie 17 Case postale 390 1001  Lausanne Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)84 881 18 48 [email protected] cgn.ch Show Route

CGN SA Avenue de Rhodanie 17 Case postale 390 1001 Lausanne Phone  +41 (0)84 881 18 48 cgn.ch Show Route

Advertisement

Travel information: lausanne, destination.

Lausanne Tourisme Avenue de Rhodanie 2 Case postale 975 1000  Lausanne +41 (0)21 613 73 73 +41 (0)21 616 86 47 [email protected] Website

• Hotel booking
• Group houses groups.swiss
• Swiss Hostels
• Bed and breakfast
• Railway timetable

Local Information

• Restaurants
• Request brochures

Winter sports

• Swiss Ski School
• Lakesides / Swimmingpools
• Climatic data
• Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps
• Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
• Swisstopo Hiking Maps

Current Offers

Lausanne Tourisme, Lausanne Lausanne Transport Card

Millennium, lausanne conference center offers.

valid: 19.05.2024 - 31.12.2024

Novotel Lausanne-Bussigny, Lausanne 20% off room hire

Without overnight stay valid: 19.05.2024 - 31.12.2024

Olympic Museum, Lausanne Exclusive hire of the Olympic Museum

Ehl hospitality business school, lausanne educational seminars, workshops and meetings, crêt-bérard, puidoux 3 for 2.

per single room valid: 19.05.2024 - 31.05.2024

Discover Lausanne

Nomadic Wizard

A Global Travel Blog & Magazine

• Tours, Tickets, Guides & Deals

Top 5 Boat Tours & Cruises in Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Explore the beauty of Lake Geneva with our curated selection of the best boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views or cultural insights, embark on unforgettable boat tours in Lake Geneva experiences. From scenic journeys past iconic landmarks to immersive experiences with multilingual guides, find your perfect adventure on the pristine waters of Lake Geneva.

Welcome to the breathtaking shores of Lake Geneva, where the serene waters beckon adventurers to embark on unforgettable boat tours and cruises. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, offers a mesmerizing setting for exploration and relaxation alike.

As one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, Lake Geneva boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scenic wonders. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush vineyards, and charming lakeside towns, this magnificent body of water captivates visitors with its ethereal charm and timeless allure.

Our journey begins amidst the elegance of Geneva, the cosmopolitan heart of Switzerland , where travelers can set sail on a variety of boat tours and cruises to uncover the hidden gems of Lake Geneva. From leisurely sightseeing cruises to thrilling excursions to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on these captivating voyages.

Join us as we reveal the top 5 boat tours and cruises that showcase the splendor of Lake Geneva in all its glory. From the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain to the majestic Mont Blanc towering in the distance, each tour promises unparalleled views and unforgettable experiences that will leave you enchanted by the beauty of this magnificent destination. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on an adventure of a lifetime as we explore Lake Geneva’s top boat tours and cruises .

1. Boat Tour In Lake Geneva: 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise

Embark on a captivating journey through Geneva aboard a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva . Marvel at the majestic Mont-Blanc mountain and the breathtaking Swiss Alps while soaking in fascinating insights about the area through your audio guide.

Enhance your experience by downloading the CGN Tours app, providing you with all the essential information right at your fingertips. Cruise from Pierres du Niton to Pointe à la Bise , passing iconic landmarks like the renowned Jet d’Eau fountain and notable buildings such as the UN headquarters.

As you glide along, revel in the beauty of meticulously maintained gardens lining the lake’s shores and the enchanting flora and fauna surrounding you. Conclude your voyage back at the dock, completing an unforgettable exploration of Lake Geneva’s scenic splendour.

About this Activity

• Free Cancellation : Enjoy the flexibility of cancelling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Reserve Now & Pay Later : Secure your spot without immediate payment, keeping your travel plans flexible.
• Duration : 50 minutes
• Audio Guide Included : Delve into the tour’s narration available in French, German, English, and Chinese through the provided audio guide.
• Escape the city hustle with a serene 50-minute cruise on Lake Geneva.
• Marvel at panoramic vistas of the lake and the majestic Swiss Alps.
• Access a free app featuring an informative audio guide for an immersive experience.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating : 4.3/5 based on 1910 reviews

Price : $21.06 USD per person

Ready to explore Lake Geneva’s wonders? Book your tour now!

2. Boat Tour In Lake Geneva: Scenic Lake Cruise with Snacks and Wine

Experience Geneva from a fresh angle aboard a scenic cruise. Glide across Lake Geneva and immerse yourself in Swiss beauty, with stunning views of the Alps and Mont Blanc . Meet your friendly crew outside the Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva and hop aboard your boat.

Settle in as you depart from the shore and onto the lake. Sip on a glass of wine and unwind as you soak in the picturesque scenery. Pass by the United Nations Office and the Bain des Paquis before gazing up at the majestic Mont Blanc and the Alps.

• Free Cancellation : Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Reserve Now & Pay Later : Book your spot without immediate payment , keeping your travel plans flexible.
• Duration : 1 hour
• Driver : Available in French and English

• Experience the serene tranquility of Lake Geneva as it gently laps against the shores.
• Marvel at breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc and the Alps mountain range.
• Enjoy a smooth glass of wine and indulge in some snacks onboard the boat.
• Catch sight of the United Nations Office and the Bain des Paquis from the water.
• Overall Rating : 4.2/5 based on 523 reviews

Price : $32.15 USD per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today.

3. Geneva City Tour and Boat Cruise

Embark on a journey through Geneva’s Old Town and international district with this guided tour. Witness iconic landmarks like Jet d’Eau, St. Pierre’s Cathedral, and the Flower Clock before indulging in a delightful boat cruise.

This 3-hour city tour of Geneva begins with a bus ride to explore the city’s international quarters, where you’ll encounter notable institutions such as the UN, UNESCO, UNICEF, WHO, and ILO. You’ll also visit main tourist attractions like the majestic Jet d’Eau fountain in Lake Geneva and the charming Flower Clock.

Experience Geneva’s rich history through a walking or mini train tour (depending on season, weather, and availability), delving deeper into the Old Town’s fascinating heritage.

Conclude your adventure with a relaxing 1-hour cruise on Lake Geneva.

• Duration : 3 hours
• Host or Greeter : Available in English and French
• Explore Geneva’s Old Town on foot or by mini train (depending on availability).
• Discover the international section of the city, including the United Nations Office.
• Admire Lake Geneva’s iconic Jet d’Eau fountain on both land and water.
• See the exquisite Flower Clock and explore St. Pierre’s Cathedral.
• Overall Rating : 4.2/5 based on 280 reviews

Price : $94.23 USD per person

Don’t miss out! Reserve your place on our unforgettable cruise.

4. From Geneva: Swiss Riviera Tour

Experience the enchanting beauty of Leman Lake and the Swiss Riviera as you journey through the picturesque canton of Vaud. Pass by the charming towns of Vevey and Montreux, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way.

This tour offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendour of Lake Geneva (also known as Leman) while customizing the trip to suit your preferences. Hop on the coach in Geneva and travel through the scenic Vaud countryside, passing by Lausanne and making a stop at Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional wine production. During the spring and summer seasons, you’ll even have the chance to visit a local vineyard and indulge in some delicious wine tasting.

Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive in Vevey where you’ll enjoy a comprehensive tour of the city, including notable landmarks like the Nestlé headquarters and the covered market. Take some free time to savor a leisurely lunch and explore Chaplin’s World, a captivating homage to the legendary Charlie Chaplin, where you can delve into the magic of cinema through sets inspired by his iconic films.

If you’ve opted for the lake cruise, embark on an unforgettable voyage aboard an old steamer boat to the Castle of Chillon. Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, this historic castle dates back to the 11th century and is one of Switzerland’s most visited attractions . Guided tours of the castle are available for those who choose this option, while others will be transported directly to the castle by bus.

Your final destination is Montreux, a glamorous resort town steeped in artistic history. Explore the streets that once welcomed legendary figures like Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, BB King, and Ray Charles, and browse through upscale shops and landmarks synonymous with the renowned jazz festival.

• Reserve Now & Pay Later : Book your spot without immediate payment , ensuring flexibility in your travel plans.
• Duration : 8 – 10 hours
• Live Tour Guide : Available in English
• Savor a glass of wine in Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
• Wander through the charming streets of Vevey.
• Explore the famed town of Montreux and follow in the footsteps of music legends.
• Enjoy a scenic lake cruise aboard an old steamboat (if option is selected).
• Marvel at the historic Castle of Chillon.
• Overall Rating : 4.4/5 based on 94 reviews

Price : $176.26 USD per person

Experience Lake Geneva like never before – book now!

5. Sirène Cruise on Lake Geneva

Embark on the Sirène cruise to explore a part of Lake Geneva , with a duration of 1 hour and an audio guide available in 5 languages on the boat.

The departure point for the Sirène cruise is located opposite the Beau-Rivage hotel, with departures scheduled three times a day from Wednesday to Sunday. To ensure environmental sustainability, the company requires a minimum of 10 people for each departure.

During the cruise, you’ll sail past the famous Water Jet and along the shores where you can admire the beautiful properties of COLOGNY and PREGNY-Chambésy. On clear days, you’ll have the opportunity to catch sight of the majestic Mont-Blanc and the French Alps. The cruise also includes a journey into the Rade de Genève to view its iconic Protestant cathedral. Don’t miss out on the chance to enhance your experience with a Zakynthos island boat tour , adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.

• Live Tour Guide : Available in French, English, German, Spanish, and Italian
• Audio Guide Included : Available in French, English, German, Spanish, and Italian
• Relax for 1 hour on the stunning Lake Geneva , often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
• Witness the enchanting mermaid of Lake Geneva.
• Admire the splendid residences along the shores.
• Enjoy the convenience of an audio guide available in 5 different languages.
• Overall Rating : 4.3/5 based on 11 reviews

Price : $16.62 USD per person

Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Geneva

What are the best tours in lake geneva.

• Geneva: 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise
• Geneva: Scenic Lake Cruise with Snacks and Wine
• Geneva: Open-Top Sightseeing Bus Tour
• From Montreux: 2-Hour Riviera Cruise
• Geneva: 2-Hour Tour of International Quarters and Old Town

See all tours in Lake Geneva on GetYourGuide.

What are the best boat tours to do in Lake Geneva with kids?

• Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise
• From Lausanne: Glacier 3000 Experience Tour
• Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level
• Geneva: City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone

See all family-friendly activities in Lake Geneva on GetYourGuide.

What are the best outdoor activities to do in Lake Geneva?

• Lausanne: 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards
• Geneva City Tour and Boat Cruise

See all outdoor activities in Lake Geneva on GetYourGuide.

What are the best indoor activities in Lake Geneva for rainy days?

• Geneva: City Pass with 60 Activities
• From Geneva: Swiss Riviera Tour

See all indoor activities in Lake Geneva on GetYourGuide.

What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Lake Geneva?

• Geneva: Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Geneva’s Time Capsule: A Historic Journey Through the City
• Geneva to: Lausanne Olympic Museum, Boat trip & Evian Tour
• Geneva: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide

See all museums and exhibitions in Lake Geneva on GetYourGuide.

What are the must-see attractions in Lake Geneva?

• Rochers de Naye
• World Health Organization

See all must-see sights in Lake Geneva.

Lake Geneva’s Ultimate Guide: Top 100 FAQs

Read More..

Seine River Cruise, Paris: Ultimate Guide & Top Boat Tours

Dubai Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark: Best Ticket Deals!

A Magical Guide to Disney World Orlando: Tips, Tickets, and Thrills

Discover Verona: Day Tours from Venice’s Floating Beauty

Share this:, related posts.

One thought on “ Top 5 Boat Tours & Cruises in Lake Geneva, Switzerland ”

• Pingback: Best 10 Top-rated Zakynthos Island Boat Tours & Cruises

Comments are closed.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

Gift cards Gift cards

• Timetables in PDF
• Belle Epoque fleet
• Horizon Card
• Contact & Access

Looking for information ?

I am looking for a trip

Timetables & Tickets Timetables & Tickets

Cruises & Experiences Cruises & Experiences

Discover Discover

Gourmet cruises

Loop cruises

Private cruises and rentals

CGN and its news

On-board catering

A fleet unique in the world

Our cruises

Naval parade 2024, sunday may 26th 2024 in vevey and la tour-de-peilz, fondue festival, from lausanne, lunch on the lake, lavaux tour cruise from lausanne.

BELLE ÉPOQUE FLEET

A fleet unique in the world, our know-how.

Follow us on @cgn_switzerland

Unfortunately, we could not find any results for your search term

• Aargau region
• Basel region
• Bern Region
• Fribourg region
• Geneva region
• Graubünden region
• Jura & Three-Lakes Region
• Lake Geneva region
• Lucerne Region - Lake Lucerne
• Region Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
• Ticino region
• Valais region
• Zurich region
• Avalanche course
• Bungee jumping
• Carriage rides
• Chocolate factory
• Competition
• Cooking course
• Creative workshop
• Cross country skiing
• Eating with locals
• Escape Game
• Escape Room
• Exhibitions
• Food & Drink
• Ice climbing
• Indoor amusement park
• Lift tickets
• Llama and alpaca trekking
• Monster Scooter
• Mountain bike
• Mountain tour
• Natural attractions
• Night sledding
• Paragliding
• Photo course
• SBB Day Pass
• Scenic flight
• Scenic train
• Ski touring
• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Stand up paddle
• Summer tobogganing
• Swiss Rail Passes
• Trail running
• Train ticket
• Travel preparation
• Via ferrata
• Virtual Reality Games
• Wakeboarding
• private car tour
• snowboard rental
• virtual travel companion

Boat Trips Switzerland - 42 Top Deals and Prices 2024

Boat trips in Switzerland are an inseparable part of the mountains, lakes and rivers. There are at least 17 shipping companies on the great Swiss lakes. A tranquil trip across the water with unique Swiss mountain scenery and a good meal is relaxing. At the same time, it is an experience that remains in the memory.

From Montreux: Riviera Tour boat cruise

Board the boat in Montreux and relax on the round trip across Lake Geneva. You will pass Chillon Castle and the nature reserve Les Grangettes. More details

Lunch and boat tour Lake Lucerne from Lucerne

With this ticket you enjoy a delicious, seasonal 3-course lunch on the ship. On Lake Lucerne you are surrounded by the picturesque scenery of Central Switzerland. More details

Short Catamaran Cruise with the Bürgenstock shuttle boat from Lucerne

Discover the glittering Lake Lucerne and the surrounding area on this one-hour round trip by boat from Lucerne to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock. More details

Round trip panoramic yacht ticket from Lucerne incl. audio guide

Admire Lake Lucerne on this one-hour round trip with a panoramic yacht and learn interesting facts about Lucerne Region and the lake with the audio guide. More details

Boat trip ticket from Lausanne to Chillon Castle and back

On this boat trip from Lausanne to Chillon Castle near Montreux you will get a special view of the Lavaux vineyards of Lavaux and Chillon Castle. More details

Day ticket Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in summer

With the day ticket, experience unlimited travel by boat on Lakes Thun and Brienz, two beautiful and turquoise blue lakes in the Bernese Oberland. More details

Day ticket Lake Lucerne by boat

Discover independently and flexibly for a whole day the beautiful Lake Lucerne with different ships. Admire the breathtaking panorama of the lake and the surroundings of the stops. More details

Lake Geneva ticket from Lausanne to Evian-les-Bains return

Take a beautiful boat trip from Lausanne to Evian and back with a view of Lake Geneva. You will make your way to the source of the world famous Evian water. More details

In this guide, the passenger ships are the main actors. Year after year, they transport millions of people and shape the image of the Swiss lakes . Milestones of development were the establishment of steamships in the 19th century, until finally in the 1920s the first motorized passenger ships set sail

Switzerland is not only the land of mountains. It is also the land of lakes and rivers. One of the greatest attractions is the leisurely "sightseeing" of the country from the water. Then as now, people from all over the world come to our lakes. They enjoy a tranquil ride on the water, but also marvel at the breathtaking scenery with mountains and sights from the lake.

Boat trips in Switzerland

Boat trips in Switzerland aren't only for tourism and enjoyment. It still has considerable importance in terms of transport access. Every day, ferries transport cars, trucks and buses.

There are several passenger ship companies that offer different passenger trips

• Passenger ship companies in Switzerland

Here you can find an overview of the lakes in Switzerland and their passenger ship companies. The table arranges the lakes by size in km2.

Shipping Zurich

For shipping in the Zurich region there are numerous shipping companies that make their rounds on various lakes.

• Shipping on Lake Zurich

Shipping on Lake Zurich probably dates back to the time of the settlement of the shore region around 4000 BC. The first iron ship on the European continent was the Lake Zurich steamer "Minerva", which began operations on July 19, 1835.

Today, the fleet comprises 17 ships. Of these, 12 are motor ships, three are Limmat boats and two are paddle steamers. in 2007, the newest member of the fleet, the MS Panta Rhei, was christened. The 700-passenger ship is particularly impressive because of its large windows and the accessibility of all decks for the disabled.

Under the title "Traumschiff" (dream ship), the Zürichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft (ZSG) offers numerous special theme trips. In Zurich, you can travel comfortably from Bürkliplatz to Rapperswil, or treat yourself to a leisurely round trip on the Limmat. In the winter months, the Limmat navigation is always discontinued.

The ZSG serves with its fleet of ships both banks as far as Rapperswil and in the high season also the upper lake between Rapperswil and Schmerikon. The Limmat boats also entertain a small loop around the lake. The best place to board is at the Swiss National Museum. Finally, the most beautiful excursions lead to Zurich or as far as Rapperswil with a wooden footbridge that is part of the Jakobsweg (Way of St. James).

From Rapperswil, a footbridge led over the dam on Lake Zurich from the earliest times. Old pilgrimage traditions are also testified by the innumerable inns in the town. The most important landmark, however, is the triangular castle with its three different towers.

Offers Lake Zurich

On Lake Zurich there is a wide range of adventure cruises for connoisseurs and explorers. Regular cruises with food & drink experiences or round trips from Zurich or Rapperswil are offered.

• Ferry Horgen - Meilen

The Lake Zurich Ferry Horgen-Meilen (FHM) operates year-round ferry service on Lake Zurich between Horgen and Meilen. This ferry connection shortens the travel route for individual traffic from the Zurich Oberland to central Switzerland. You can reach the opposite shore of the lake without a detour through the city of Zurich or via the Rapperswil lake dam.

The fleet consists of five ferryboats, the lion's share of whose trips are for commuters between the two lakeshores. From spring to fall, both tranquil round trips and nostalgia trips are offered.

Offers Horgen - Meilen ferry

• single trip passengers
• single trip vehicle < 3m
• single trip vehicle 3 - 6 m
• single trip vehicle 6 - 12 m

The special culinary cruises are no less inspiring. There is a breakfast ship as well as a pasta, fondue, Asian and a game ship.

• Lake Greifen boat trip

15 km east of Zurich lies the charming Greifensee, whose entire shore region is a protected nature reserve. The Greifensee boat service links the five main starting points on the lake: Maur, Fällanden, Uster and Mönchaltorf Silberweide open up the region around Lake Greifen.

In 1895, the steamship Greif was built by Escher Wyss, the largest manufacturer of ships in Switzerland at that time. More than 600 ships have left the factory halls in the meantime. The steamship "Greif" is the oldest and only coal-fired steamship with screw propulsion operating in public passenger shipping in Switzerland today.

In addition to the steamship, the Schifffahrtsgenossenschaft Greifensee (SGG) also operates its own ships, which offer themed boat trips. Today, the environmentally friendly operated ships of the SGG include the MS Stadt Uster, the MS David Herrliberger and the MS Heimat.

The view from the lake is the best way to see the unobstructed shores. About 400 different plant species grow in the reed meadows and fens surrounding the idyllic Greifensee. The round trip from Maur - Uster - Maur takes about 1.5 h.

Offers Greifensee

• Whole round trip
• Evening trips with 1st August fireworks from Maur
• Sunset trips with steam romance and aperitif (Saturday)
• Lake Zug and Lake Aegeri boat trip

The graceful Lake Zug - 14 km long and 198 m deep - is surrounded by a gently rolling landscape in its northern part. The southern end is nestled between the steep flanks of Rossberg and Rigi. Lake Aegeri, about 5 km southeast of Zug, is also beautiful to experience by boat. The boats leave near the boat station north of the Landsgemeindeplatz. In summer they sail south to Arth and many other destinations.

The places on the shore are served by the ships of the Schifffahrtsgesellschaft Zugersee. At the start of the season (April 1), the lake maps of Lake Zug and Lake Aegeri are available digitally. There you will also find the most important data and basics about navigation and leisure.

Lake Zug is connected by boat via 9 stops. On your big round trip you reach the worth seeing places Cham, Walchwil, Arth am See, Immensee and Oberwil via these stops.

Offers Lake Zug and Lake Aegeri

Throughout the year, the Zuger Schifffahrtsgesellschaft offers adventure cruises. These range from breakfast or brunch on Sunday to aperitifs and themed cruises such as Dinner Krimi, Casino Night or Bond Brunch.

• Lake Walen boat trip

The light green shimmering Walensee stretches between the Glarus Alps and the Churfirsten peaks rising almost 1000 m above the lake to the north. It is 15 km long, 151 m deep and up to 2 km wide.

The ferries of the Walensee shipping company run regularly between Quinten and Murg. The motor ship Quinten forms the largest unit with a total capacity of 260 passengers, followed by the ferries MS Churfirsten, MS Seestern, MS Walenstadt and MS Alvier.

From March to October, ships regularly travel between Weesen and Walenstadt. On the route Murg - Au - Quinten - Murg they stop at several places like Betlis. In winter the connection is limited from Murg to Quinten. One of the most beautiful destinations is Weesen, an idyllic little town visited as a summer resort. Hikers also appreciate a stop at Walenstadt under the steep walls of the Hinterrugg.

Landing stages on Lake Walen

The main landing stages at the Walensee, which are approached, are: Murg, Au, Weesen, Mühlehorn, Betlis and Quinten.

Shipping Aargau

In the region of Aargau you have the opportunity to enjoy the surroundings from a ship on the Hallwilersee.

• Lake Hallwil boat trip

You can cruise across the peaceful waters of Lake Hallwil on a ferry. If you want to discover the lake valley in all its beauty, you can't miss a boat trip on Lake Hallwil.

In 1888, the Lake Hallwil Navigation Company was founded - as the "Steamship Company of Lake Hallwil". Currently, five ships operate on the lake: MS Brestenberg, MS Delphin, MS Seetal, MS Hallwil and MS Seerose.

The scheduled boats sail regularly from May to September, as well as on fair-weather days in the early and late season. The main landing stages are Seengen, Delphin Meisterschwanden, Birrwil, Beinwil am See, Aesch, Mosen and Boniswil.

The big round trip from Seengen - Meisterschwanden - Aesch - Mosen - Beinwil - Birewil - Boniswil - Seengen takes 1 h 45 min. The most popular destinations on Lake Hallwil include Hallwyl Castle, Heidegg Castle, Schongiland Adventure Park and the Seerose and Delphin restaurants in Meisterschwanden.

The offer ranges from seasonal special and theme trips to culinary excursions. Among the most beautiful experiences is the Sunday morning trip with the brunch ship as well as a sunset cruise.

Boat trip Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

When you travel from Bern to Interlaken for the first time, you will never forget the moment when your gaze falls on Lake Thun . The turquoise blue water will immediately enchant you. So it's no surprise that these two lakes in the Bernese Oberland are a real magnet for excursions.

• BLS boat trip

Lake Thun and lake Brienz lie in the elongated valley of the Aare between Brienz and Thun. The idyllic Brienz is located on the shore of the lake of the same name. Here you look out over beautiful turquoise waters, rugged mountains and dense forests. Lake Brienz, which is mainly fed by glacier water, is one of the coldest lakes in Switzerland.

The BLS Schifffahrt-Flotte consists of a total of 14 ships, including the two stately paddlewheel steamers "Blümlisalp" and "Lötschberg". Passenger ships operate year-round on Lake Thun between Interlaken and Thun, while operations on Lake Brienz are discontinued in winter.

A lake cruise on both lakes can be combined with excursions to popular places and sights. For example, a stop at the Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz or the Beatus Caves on Lake Thun is worthwhile. About 18 km from Interlaken, on the northern shore of Lake Brienz, is the valley station of the Brienz-Rothorn cable car, which whiskey lovers should not miss.

Offers Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Wonderful evening cruises and numerous events complement the range of courses offered by BLS Schifffahrt. You can also plan a Zweiseen boat trip and connect the lakes with a trip on the Bödeli Railway. This nostalgic mini train in Interlaken operates between May and October by reservation for groups of 8 or more.

Steamboat lines

• With the nostalgic steamer Blümlisalp you travel the line Thun - Interlaken - Thun or Thun - Beatenbucht - Thun.
• With the paddle steamer Lötschberg you travel the line Interlaken Ost - Brienz - Interlaken Ost.

Lake Lucerne boat trip

Lake Lucerne is named after the four "Waldstätten" surrounding it - the original cantons of Uri, Schwyz, Unterwalden and the canton of Lucerne. It is the fourth largest lake in Switzerland and stretches over a length of 38 km from Lucerne to Flüelen. In magnificence as well as diversity, the 214 m deep lake is not surpassed by any other Swiss lake.

• Lake Lucerne Navigation Company SGV

The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) operates ships on the lake every day. With 5 paddle steamers and 14 motor ships, the fleet offers something for everyone.

Lucerne is the ideal starting point for excursions by boat on Lake Lucerne as well as for combined tours. The Lucerne regions on Lake Lucerne appear cheerful and serene. Lovely mountain ranges alternate with sheltered bays of almost Mediterranean vegetation. The three well-known excursion mountains Pilatus, Bürgenstock and Rigi set striking accents.

Lake Lucerne offers

There are year-round connections from Lucerne to Alpnachstad, Weggis, Vitznau, Brunnen and Flüelen. To Flüelen, however, there is only one ship a day in winter, while the courses turn around in Brunnen or at the Rütli.

Combine your hiking trip with a boat trip, enjoy the sunset atmosphere on deck or sail towards Lucerne's sea of lights during Advent.

With the Lake Lucerne Pass you have one year of free travel on the lake and many other advantages. The annual fee is worth it if you often travel on the lake.

Lake Geneva Navigation

To the east of Geneva stretches Western Europe's largest inland lake. The much visited Lake Geneva is a gigantic liquid mirror. It lies between the French Savoy Alps and the Vaud Alps in Switzerland. Of its lake surface, 60% falls on Switzerland and 40% on France.

• Boat trips on Lake Geneva CGN

The sunny northern shores of Vaud with the vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invite you to linger, discover and enjoy. Other beautiful destinations around Lake Geneva are the Chateau Chillon and the cities of Montreux, Lausanne, Geneva and Evian.

There are plenty of family-friendly activities on Lake Geneva. The largest ferry company (CGN Ferries and Cruises) on Lake Geneva offers a regular schedule year-round. And in addition, various themed cruises operate on beautiful Belle Epoque steamboats.

Timetable & Offers Lake Geneva

Main moorings and routes on Lake Geneva are:

• Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne
• Lausanne - Montreux - St. Gingolph
• Nyon - Yvoire
• Lausanne - Thonon - Nyon

Swissboat also offers various thematic cruises on Lake Geneva and the Rhone from April to October.

Shipping Eastern Switzerland

Located off the northern edge of the Alps, Lake Constance is the third largest inland lake in Europe. It ranks third after Lake Balaton and Lake Geneva among the most extensive lakes in Central Europe. Lake Constance is located in Switzerland, Germany and Austria.

• Greatest length: 63.3 km between Bregenz and Bodman-Ludwigshafen
• Greatest lake width: 14.8 km between Kressbronn and Rorschach
• Largest lake depth: 251.8 m in the Tiefen Schweb of Obersee
• Lake Constance Navigation

The entire southern foreland of Lake Constance is Swiss territory and by far the greater part belongs to the canton of Thurgau. In contrast, the area around Rorschach up to the Old Rhine is assigned to the canton of St. Gallen.

Several ferry companies, including the Schweizer Bodensee Schifffahrt SBS - the Vorarlberg Lines VLB, the Bodensee-Schiffsbetriebe BSB and the Schifffahrtsgesellschaft Untersee und Rhein SSURh - crisscross the lake and along its shores from the beginning of March to the end of October.

Bodensee Schifffahrt operates as the largest shipyard on Lake Constance. There are 4 scheduled ships and 2 ferries in operation. In addition, the ships MS Rhynegg and MS Rhy and Rhyspitz operate. In summer, the MS Rhynegg invites you to a wonderful voyage of discovery on the Old Rhine. The motorboats Rhy and Rhyspitz can also be rented.

• The "St. Gallen" represents the Swiss Lake Constance navigation on the annual fleet star cruise.
• Together with the "Zürich", the motor ship "Thurgau" is one of the first larger motor ships in Switzerland (built around 1930). The age of the sister ships is hardly noticeable.
• Coming from Romanshorn, the "Zürich" sets course for Kreuzlingen.
• Her sister ship, the "Thurgau", was redesigned in 1991 in an appealing rustic style. After transformation into the private Schweizerische Bodensee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft in 1996, the excursion program was further expanded.
• The luxury yacht MS Säntis stands out as a gem.
• Euregia and Romanshorn are the two motor ferries that connect Romanshorn and Friedrichshafen in 45 minutes.
• From the home port Bregenz the ships of Vorarlberg Lines sail in the summer half-year to Lindau (DE), Meersburg (DE) and Constance (DE). The fleet also includes the MS "Sonnenkönigin". She has room for 1000 passengers. This makes it the largest ship on Lake Constance.

The main stops on Lake Constance on the Swiss side are Romanshorn, Rorschach and Kreuzlingen. Other stops are Arbon, Rheineck, Constance (DE), Mainau (DE), Lindau (DE) and Immenstaad (DE).

Lake Constance offers

The Lake Constance ticket includes the use of the ferries Friedrichshafen - Romanshorn and / or Constance - Meersburg depending on the region purchased.

• Navigation Untersee and Rhine

Untersee is separated from the main basin of Lake Constance by a land bridge cut by the Rhine at Constance. In its northern part it forms the two fingers of the Gnadensee. Untersee is located between Constance, Stein am Rhein and Radolfzell.

On the Untersee, the Swiss shipping company "Untersee und Rhein" offers course and adventure cruises. The scheduled boats operate daily from April to October between Kreuzlingen, Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen. The main stops are Kreuzlingen, Constance, Reichenau Island, Höri Peninsula, Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen.

Offers Untersee and Rhine

The 45 km long boat trip from Schaffhausen to Constance leads along one of the most beautiful sections of the Rhine. The Swiss shipping company "Untersee und Rhein" sails from/to Kreuzlingen via Stein am Rhein and Reichenau to Schaffhausen. The trip takes almost four hours downstream - one hour longer in the opposite direction.

Another Untersee round trip starts from Steckborn and leads to Ermatingen, Switzerland's oldest fishing village. On the way you will see castles, palaces and historic half-timbered buildings. The round trip takes about 2 h

Shipping Basel

In Basel , Switzerland comes closest to a seaside port: from here, the Rhine is navigable all the way to its mouth for relatively large ships. It flows north through the city in a gentle curve coming from the southeast.

• Navigation on the Rhine in Basel

The Basler Personenschifffahrt operates scheduled cruises and year-round adventure cruises from March to October. Founded in 1924, the company now owns four ships.

• Their new flagship is the Rhystärn. The course ship offers space for up to 700 people and impresses with a cozy deck with bar and generous window fronts. You enjoy a fabulous view on your Rhine Basel tour.
• The trip on the motor ship "Christoph Merian" is no less exciting. There is room for 500 people.
• The smallest ship in the fleet, the "Baslerdybli", sails past the old town and under numerous bridges in a nostalgic look and with up to 78 seats.

Offers Basel

• The big lock trip to Rheinfelden is very popular. It is the king trip of the round trip offer. On the approx. 4-hour trip you pass the two locks Birsfelden and Augst.
• From the Kleinbasel bank of the Rhine to Klybeckquay and the border triangle, you enjoy an approx. 50-minute harbor trip with a magnificent view of France and Germany.
• In the heart of Basel, an approx. 50-minute city tour takes you past the Basel Cathedral, the Roche Tower, the Tinguely Museum and to the Birsfelden lock.

Boat trip Ticino

It is hard to believe the contrasts that Switzerland offers: Where you stroll along the waterfront promenades in Locarno and Lugano under well-tended palm trees, you enter an alpine jungle in the wild side valleys. The boat trip in Ticino is suitable for unforgettable hours or days with family or friends....

Lake Maggiore, 60 km long, 3-5 km wide and up to 372 m deep, is the second largest of the Upper Italian lakes.

• Lake Maggiore boat trip

Only the northeasternmost corner of Lake Maggiore with the town of Locarno belongs to Switzerland. The rest of the lake is in Italian Lombardy. There has been passenger navigation on the lake since 1826. The Navigazione Lago Maggiore shipping company operates ships on the entire lake. The fleet consists of 25 ships. Among them are the historic "Piemonte", a historic steamboat built in 1904, and modern speedboats such as the catamaran "Leopardie".

Be it the event tour on a paddle steamer, round trips or short excursions - every trip across Lake Maggiore is an experience. The sister towns of Locarno and Ascona are located on the two bays. A charming contrast that always surprises is the light blue of the lake in front of the sugared peaks of Tamaro and Gambarogno.

Offers Lake Maggiore

With the day ticket you can sail the whole Swiss part of the lake. There are several options for visiting the Italian side. A car ferry connects the ports of Intra and Laveno every 20 minutes.

• Lake Lugano Navigation

Lake Lugano on the southern edge of the Alps belongs mainly to the Swiss canton of Ticino. The lake also has a share in the Italian provinces of Varese and Como. Situated at 270 meters above sea level, the lake is up to 288 meters deep and 35 kilometers long.

A boat trip on Lago di Lugano is definitely worthwhile. The transport boats on the lake are operated by the Societa Navigazione de Lago di Lugano. The offer of the shipping company with nine ships includes morning, noon and evening trips.

Offers Lago di Lugano

There are round trips from Lugano to Melide, to Morcuote and to Ponte Tresa. If you want to visit more places, it is best to choose a time ticket. In addition to the day pass, there is also a three-day pass and a weekly pass. Children travel at a reduced price.

The pier in Lugano is located near Piazza della Riforma. The boats operate all year round. They operate most frequently between the end of March and October. At this time they sometimes even go as far as Ponte Tresa, which is right on the border with Italy.

Navigation Jura and Three Lakes Country

With its rivers and lakes, the Three Lakes Region is predestined for a leisurely cruise on a passenger ship.

• Navigation on Lake Biel, Lake Neuchâtel and the River Aare

Lake Biel, with a length of 14.5 km and a width of up to 3.5 km, forms the boundary between two geological regions: the limestone formation of the Jura and the molasse region of the Seeland. The neighboring lakes Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Murten are connected to Lake Biel by a canal.

Throughout the year, the Bielersee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft BSG in Biel and the Navigation Lacs de Neuchatel et Morat LNM in Neuchâtel offer day trips for all three lakes. The proud fleet of BSG Schifffahrt includes classic course ships, the largest solar catamaran in Switzerland and a modern yacht. The route network runs through the Seeland region from Solothurn to Murten. On the Aare, the ships sail into Lake Biel, on into Lake Neuchâtel to Lake Murten and back again.

A round trip makes you familiar with the beautiful shores and a number of villages and small towns worth seeing. A famous destination on Lake Biel is St. Peter's Island - a spot of poetic beauty. You can reach St. Peter's Island by boat from Biel or La Neuveville. Along the nature reserve Yverdon les Bains Champ-Pittet you will enjoy a magnificent view of the Jura chain.

Highlights on the Aare trip between Solothurn and Biel are the storks of Altreu, the historic town of Büren an der Aare and the lock in Port.

Timetable & Offers Three Lakes Country

Day trips across all three lakes include lunch. Other boats operate regularly only in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, however, there are numerous special trips such as fondue evenings.

The one-way trip from Biel to Erlach takes about 1 ¼ h, the two-lake trip about 2 ¼ h and the big three-lake trip about 3 ¼ h.

Boat trip Fribourg

In the Fribourg region, a tour by boat on Lake Murten is possible and definitely worth a visit.

• Lake Murten boat trip

Canals connect Lake Murten with Lake Neuchâtel to the west and Lake Biel to the north, forming the Three Lakes Country. It is lakeland, distinguished by about 250 km of cycling and hiking trails. Lake Murten is 9 km long and up to 46 m deep. To the northwest extends the flat ridge of Mont Vully, which separates Lake Murten from Lake Neuchâtel.

In the season from the end of April to the end of October, the Navigation Lacs de Neuchatel et Morat offers boat trips on Lake Morat. On the approximately 70-minute round trip, the ship stops in Praz, Motier, Avenches, Vallamand and Faoug.

By the way, in Salavaux you will find the longest sandy beach in Switzerland.

• Boat trips Valais

In Valais, the main valley of the Rhone, an enchanting river landscape reveals itself. It starts at the Rhone glacier and ends at the shore of Lake Geneva. There are no navigation companies here, as they are known from the Aare. Instead, the rivers of the region can be explored in other ways, for example river rafting .

• Boat trips Graubünden

Graubünden is the headwaters of the Rhine. The Inn also rises here, as well as the rivers of the Italian-Graubünden southern valleys that flow toward the Po. The Rhine Gorge forms a spectacular backdrop for first white-water rafting taster tours . If you're looking for more challenging waters, you'll find them on the Landquart in central Prättigau and in the Lower Engadine

Also for canoeists the Vorderrhein is an ideal area for the first attempts in white water. It is also home to the best canoe school in the canton. It offers a wide range of canoe and kayak courses.

• Swiss Activities tips for boat trips in Switzerland
• With a day pass in your pocket, you can get off and explore as many times as you like along the way before moving on to the next ship.
• If you want to enjoy the outside deck during the trip, we strongly recommend that you take a windbreaker with you, even in summer and when the weather is nice
• The GA and the Half-Fare Card are valid on most lakes and rivers, so that you can travel at greatly reduced rates or even for free.
• The Swiss Boat Pass offers a 50% discount on boat trips. Brunch and lunch are also taken into account
• Boat trips are a great excursion even in winter. Many shipping companies offer a year-round schedule, although it is usually greatly reduced in the winter.
• The last surviving steamship on Lake Constance, the "Hoehentwiel", was launched in 1913. Already one year before, a first steamship imported from Liverpool - the "Comapagnie Generale de Navigation sur le Lac Leman" - was sailing on Lake Geneva. The "Savoie", the "Simplon" and the "Rhone" date back to the Belle Epoque. The oldest ship on Lake Lucerne is the "Rigi" from 1884

Table of contents

Dogs are not allowed on culinary and other certain cruises. Guide dogs are excluded. For some boat trips (mainly cross-country trips) dogs are allowed with a ticket. Please check with the operator before booking.

Except for a few small ships, all ships are suitable for wheelchair users. Access to the restaurants is also at ground level.

Top Destinations

• Grindelwald
• Lauterbrunnen
• Brienzwiler

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• First Cliff Walk
• Jungfraujoch
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Lake Lucerne
• Schynige Plate
• Lake Geneva
• Eiger Glacier
• Glacier Gorge Grindelwald
• Grindelwald First
• Chillon Castle

Navigate at sbb.ch

• To contents

Service links

• Search Open Search term Search

English is currently selected as the language.

Boat trips on Lake Geneva.

The offer is available in the following categories.

Whether for an hour or for a whole day, cruises on Lake Geneva offer you a unique experience with plenty of relaxation and culinary delights.

Please note that this offer is currently unavailable. You will find more information here as soon as the offer is available again.

The boat trips, which are tailored to your needs, will take you around the beautiful landscapes which surround Lake Geneva.

Further content

More on the topic..

• Hotels Link opens in new window.
• Online timetable
• Opening hours and general information Link opens in new window.

Help & contact.

• RailAway offers
• Group travel
• Topic overview

Help & Contact

Do you have questions, need help or want to get in contact with us?  We’re here to help you.

Rail traffic information

Find the latest information on the current service situation, information, disruptions as well as planned construction work on the Swiss rail network and on strikes and on important disruptions and strikes abroad.

Newsletter & Social Media

Our newsletter regularly informs you of attractive offers from SBB via e-mail.

• Display the SBB Facebook page. Link opens in new window.
• Display the SBB X account. Link opens in new window.
• Display the SBB Youtube channel. Link opens in new window.
• Display the SBB Instagram account. Link opens in new window.
• SBB Social Media
• Jobs & careers Link opens in new window.
• Business customers Link opens in new window.
• Company Link opens in new window.
• SBB News Link opens in new window.
• SBB Community Link opens in new window.

Timeless SBB design.

Would you also like to get your hands on an official Swiss station clock by Mondaine? Whether you’d like it as a watch, wall clock, pocket watch or alarm clock, order the model you want online now. Link opens in new window. Take a look and order Link opens in new window.

• Cookie settings
• Legal information
• Data protection
• Accessibility

In collaboration with

• Visitors Guide & Map
• Order a Guide
• Special Offers
• Our Communities
• E-News Sign Up
• Visitor Info Center
• Geneva Lake Shore Path
• Outdoor Activities
• Tours & Sightseeing
• Arts & Entertainment
• Museums & History
• Spas & Salons
• Lessons, Classes & DIY
• Fall Activities
• Winter Activities
• Itinerary: Donald Driver's Must See Lake Geneva Spots
• Event Calendar
• Concerts in the Park
• Restaurant Week
• Electric Christmas Parade
• Hotels & Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Campgrounds
• Food & Drink
• Wineries, Breweries, & Distilleries
• Bars, Taverns, & Cocktail Lounges
• Bakeries, Coffee & Sweets
• Dining Experiences
• Fish Fry Fridays
• Submit an RFP
• Venues Full Service Hotels & Resorts Alternative Venues Banquet Space
• Team Building & Group Bonding
• Things to Do
• Motorcoach & Group Tours
• Meeting Support Services
• Services Wedding Planners Photographers Florists Caterers, Chefs & Bakers Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties Churches/Ministers/Law Dresses/Tuxedos Entertainment Invitations & Accessories Salons & Spas Transportation
• Local Services

Lake Geneva Cruise Line

Founded in 1873, Lake Geneva Cruise Line is deeply rooted in the history of Lake Geneva. Our fleet of eight classic boats from a variety of historical eras, gets locals and visitors out on the water! We offer a wide variety of boat tours including narrated scenic tours; brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises; and private parties.

May through October you will find us at the Riviera Docks in Lake Geneva. Tours run daily, and tickets can be purchased from our ticket boat on the docks or online. Popular tours include our Geneva Bay tour featuring breathtaking historical estates, our US Mailboat tour including mail jumpers delivering the mail to lake homes, and our Fall Foliage tour flaunting beautiful fall colors.

Late November and December you will find us at our winter harbor in Williams Bay. We celebrate the holiday season with families as we cruise over to Santa’s Hideaway aboard our Santa Cruise.

Our boats cruise May through December, but our office is open year-round as we help families, couples, and businesses plan private parties, weddings, and corporate outings.

Lake Life Begins With Gage.

• Largest Group Capacity: 200
• WebsiteAlternate: www.cruiselakegeneva.com
• TripAdvisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60022-d1813072-Reviews-Lake_Geneva_Cruise_Line-Lake_Geneva_Wisconsin.html

Facility Info

• Floorplan File Floorplan File
• Theatre Capacity 1
• Alternative Meeting Space true
• Audio/Video Available true
• Catering Available true
• Banquet Capacity 1

Lake Geneva Cruise Line/Gage Marine Open Positions

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more about our privacy policies .

Cruise on Lake Geneva (CGN)

Useful information.

How to get there

Lavaux Tour (Lausanne - Vevey - Lausanne), 2nd class

Patrimoine tour (lausanne - st-gingolph - chillon - montreux - vevey - lausanne), 2nd class, crossing lausanne-evian (round trip), 2nd class, crossing lausanne-thonon (round trip), 2nd class.

Our stories of this place

Suggestions of articles

• Included entrance or reduced prices (20% discount) on a wide choice of attractions
• The must-sees of Lausanne and its region brought together in a single pass
• Public transport in Lausanne included (Mobilis zones 11 and 12)

Share this page

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

These Cookies are essential in order to enable you to move around our Website and to use its features. Without these Cookies, some elements of our Website may be blocked or not function correctly.

We use these Cookies in order to let you access our Services. The processing of the Personal data collected by these Cookies rely on our legitimate interest and allow a correct functioning of our Website.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that each time you visit this site, you will have to enable or disable cookies again.

These Cookies are used to know better our Website’s Users, to adapt its content, to keep statistics about our Website’s use and to deliver more relevant adverts on third parties’ websites, based on your interest that you demonstrated during our Website’s use. In some cases, We use these Cookies to deliver more relevant adverts to you and your interests.

Please enable the strictly necessary cookies first so we can save your preferences!

LAKE GENEVA BOAT TOURS

Welcome Aboard! Lake Geneva Cruise Line, one of Wisconsin’s top attractions, offers the best way to experience Lake Geneva. Explore the beauty, architecture, and scenery of the lake from one of our eight beautiful boats. Book your boat ride below.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

This Charming Lake Town Is Known as the 'Newport of the Midwest' — How to Visit

Here's how to plan the perfect trip to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

Best Hotels and Resorts

• Best Things to Do

Best Restaurants

Best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Travel Wisconsin

Lake Geneva, known as the "Hamptons of Chicago" and the "Newport of the Midwest," is one of the best small towns in Wisconsin. One of three main communities on Geneva Lake, this posh yet approachable resort town is famous for its Gilded Age estates built by notable Chicago families. It also has a world-renowned observatory, a winding 21-mile shore path around the lake, a famous mail boat cruise, and many independent eateries.

Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, located on 1,300 rolling acres just outside of town. 
• Check out the Yerkes Observatory, known as the birthplace of modern astrophysics. 
• Join the famous Mailboat Tour as it delivers mail to lake homes via boat. 
• Enjoy a meal at Pier 290.
• Visit during the summer for gorgeous weather perfect for lake days. 

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

A former Playboy Club, the recently renovated Grand Geneva draws inspiration from native Wisconsinite Frank Lloyd Wright's signature architectural approach. This grand resort boasts 358 guest rooms and over 60,000 square feet of meeting and event space on 1,300 rolling, hilly acres outside town. Three onsite restaurants, a ski hill, and a golf course round out the amenities. One of Travel + Leisure ’s best Midwest resorts for a fall getaway , this AAA Four-Diamond operation is an excellent base for exploring Lake Geneva any time of year. 

Maxwell Mansion

Mere blocks from downtown Lake Geneva, this boutique property has two distinct vibes: the lovingly restored historic mansion and the equestrian-chic Carriage House and Stables. Maxwell’s has six rooms in the main mansion, 14 in the carriage house, and seven suites and one standard room in the stables. A heated outdoor pool and three distinct watering holes — a speakeasy, a craft cocktail bar, and a seasonal outdoor tiki bar — set this unique spot apart from typical chain hotels.

According to Barb Krause, publisher of At The Lake Magazine , a quarterly print publication about the Geneva Lake area, “Maxwell’s owners, Luke and Monica, have a wealth of hospitality experience, and it shows in their creative décor and special events.” Krause suggests ordering a specialty cocktail at the Apothecary Bar and listening to live music. “There are so many cozy corners in the mansion and around the property to sit and have a conversation,” she adds.

The Abbey Resort

In the enclave of Fontana-on-Geneva Lake, The Abbey is billed as the only full-service lakeside accommodation. “The Abbey has undergone a beautiful renovation, and the property shines from its lakefront location," Krause says. "You can easily walk to nearby shops and restaurants in the village of Fontana."

With 334 guest rooms, including suites and villas, accommodations can meet your needs no matter who you travel with. Grand Geneva Resort and Spa concierge Sarah Hill notes that the 35,000-square-foot Avani Spa is particularly excellent. Other amenities include two full-service eateries, a coffee shop and bar, indoor and outdoor pools, a cinema and entertainment center, bikes you can borrow, and marina access.

Lake Lawn Resort

In the greater Lake Geneva area, find Lake Lawn Resort . "Lake Lawn Resort is a great place to spend the weekend, with a beautiful setting on Delavan Lake. There's quite a bit to do: You can golf, get a treatment at the spa, and take a boat ride. Plus, there's a newly designed restaurant, 1878, with lake views," Krause shares. Lake Lawn's 250 acres include two miles of Delavan Lake shoreline and 271 guest rooms with a balcony or patio. 

Best Things to Do 

Geneva lake shore path.

One of Geneva Lake's main attractions is the public walking path. Krause explains that “the Shore Path is an amazing piece of living history. The path encircles the entire lake and is nearly 22 miles around, so most people walk just a portion of it at a time.”

You can see historic turn-of-the-century estates up close and modern new homes. “You walk through the lakefront yards of these homes. We don’t know of any other lake in the United States with this type of public access,” Krause says. 

Black Point Estate and Gardens 

"Set on the highest natural point of Geneva Lake, Black Point Estate is a historic house museum on the lake's southern shore," Hill says. The previous owners donated this summer residence to the state of Wisconsin for public enjoyment, and it's now recognized for its architectural significance on the National Historic Register. You can only access the Queen Anne-style home via Geneva Cruise Line's 3.5-hour private tour.

Yerkes Observatory

Yerkes Observatory , the birthplace of modern astrophysics, is one of the country's most important ground-based observatories. And it almost became condos. Thankfully, a group of dedicated locals and summer residents intervened to save the storied structure from demolition.

Krause expands: “Yerkes Observatory is housed in a grand, historic building with beautiful architecture … we are so grateful that it has been saved from the wrecking ball and development, and now open to the public for tours and events. Einstein was here! I’ve been on the tour a few times, and I love seeing the telescope and hearing about our local contribution to astronomic discoveries.” 

Mail Boat Run

Geneva Lake is one of only a handful of places in the U.S. that still offers mail service by boat. Join the 2.5-hour Mail Boat Run for an iconic area activity. The boat traverses the lake and makes about 50 mail drops.

“I’ve been on the mail boat tour several times. It looks so challenging to jump on and off the piers! But it’s a lot of fun to watch, and the residents get into it, too, waiting on the pier with kids or their dogs," Krause says. "Between stops, the mail jumper tells you about our lakefront history.” It's only offered in the summer from June 15 through Sept. 15, so plan your visit accordingly.

Big Foot Beach State Park

This 271-acre state park boasts five miles of hiking trails, a family campground, a picnic area, a swimming beach, and a playground. For excellent fishing, visit the on-site lagoon, a replica of Geneva Lake.

It's a special spot for Krause. “We originally moved to Lake Geneva because my dad became superintendent at Big Foot Beach. So we grew up enjoying the park as a family, taking walks, grilling out, and learning to cross-country ski in the winter,” she says. "Today, I take walks through the park with friends. Visitors love the open areas for big picnics, just across the street from the beach.” 

Geneva Lake

One of Wisconsin's largest and deepest inland lakes, Geneva Lake is renowned for its cleanliness and gorgeous aquamarine hue — take advantage of it if you visit in the summer. Clearwater Outdoor offers kayak and standup paddleboard rentals. Hill suggests renting a motorboat, too. ​"It's a pretty large lake, about 5,000 acres, so renting a boat allows you to see more than paddling can. People love to rent pontoons, especially families," she says.

The Lake Geneva area is a golfer's delight. The two most notable spots are the Grand Geneva, which has two courses, and the Geneva National, which has three courses (one is reserved for members). If you can’t swing a tee time at these elite courses, plenty of other options exist. 

Oakfire Pizza

Oakfire Pizza is a must-visit for its wood-fired pizzas and inventive pasta. “I love Oakfire Pizza — the rustic décor, lake views, and the open floor plan. The bartenders craft creative cocktails, and we always share cheese curds, salad, and pizza," says Krause.

Helmed by Chef Simon Cumming, Sopra in Lake Geneva embraces Italian-American influences and seasonal products. “This is our top fine dining option right now. The food is fantastic, very eclectic," Hill says.

Simple Food Group Café, Market, and Bakery 

“ Simple Café is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s our go-to when we have guests from out of town because there’s something for every foodie and dietary restriction, and the menu changes seasonally,” says Krause. The cafe focuses on artisan products from southeastern Wisconsin producers.

Located on the Williams Bay side of the lake, Pier 290 provides an outdoor bar, sandy beach, fire pits, and a beautiful backdrop for a waterfront meal. "One of my favorite spots is Pier 290, the only restaurant directly on Geneva Lake. And it's actually built next to the working shipyard of Gage Marine, which just celebrated its 150th anniversary on the lake," Hill says.

Krause agrees: "Pier 290 is our special occasion destination, and by that, I mean birthdays, good days at work, or just a random Wednesday. We prefer the outdoor and tented seating, even in the winter. They have live music nearly every weekend, and the gift shop is not to be missed."

Though there's reason to visit Lake Geneva year-round, the traditional summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) is the most popular as the weather is warm and kids are out of school. But if you don't have to worry about school schedules, the spring and fall shoulder seasons offer mild weather and more affordable prices. The Geneva Lakes Boat Show at the Abbey , a showcase of vintage and classic boats from around the country, is popular in the fall.

Winter is also a special time to visit. According to Hill, “​Our busiest weekend of the year, and one of the most fun, is Winterfest weekend.” Every year, during the first week of February, Lake Geneva hosts the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship. “Teams fly in from all over the country, and they craft these massive, massive forms [in] downtown Lake Geneva … it is just a hoot,” Hill says.

The snowy season also allows for Nordic skiing, downhill skiing , ice fishing, and ice boating, when sailboats on metal runners glide on the frozen lake. “Hanging out at Chuck’s on a Saturday afternoon in the winter to watch ice boats is a rite of passage,” Hill says. 

Lake Geneva is 80 miles from Chicago and 40 miles from Milwaukee. If you're flying in from outside the region, O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) are your best bets, though MKE is preferable — it's closer to Lake Geneva and you'll encounter less traffic than if you drive from Illinois.

The Lake Geneva area doesn't have public transportation, so you need a car. Rent a vehicle at MKE or O’Hare . Milwaukee earns convenience points for an on-site rental car operation, while O’Hare provides free, 24-hour shuttle service to the rental car parking structure.

Related Articles

Memorial Day weekend events: Things to do in New York State 

If glamping is more your speed, book a tent in the Adirondacks with company Huttopia.  Credit: Chrissy Walther

Memorial Day tends to sneak up on us — and if you're looking to escape town and avoid the crowds, take a road trip upstate this holiday weekend to mark the unofficial start of summer. From camping under the stars to scenic boat tours, several destinations offer plenty of family-friendly things to do in the great outdoors.

Holiday History

A weekend in the Finger Lakes region will take you to the very heart of Memorial Day. The holiday dates to the spring of 1865 when upstate Waterloo business owner Henry Welles watched a widow put flowers on the grave of her husband, a Civil War soldier. Struck by the image, Welles resolved to find a way to honor those lost in war. The first Memorial Day took place the next year, and in 1966 President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized Waterloo as the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

Holiday celebrations run all weekend in Waterloo , highlighted by a parade and fireworks on May 25. “It’s awesome to see the community come together,” says event chair Sarah Smolinski. “It’s a great way to kick off the summer.” Other events over the three-day celebration, marking its 25th year, include a performance by an Abraham Lincoln impersonator, Civil War re-enactments, and importantly, notes Smolinski, “several ceremonies honoring the people we have lost.” Even if you go later in the summer, you can still tour the National Memorial Day Museum , open Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day, with no admission fee (35 E. Main St., Waterloo; wlhs-ny.com ).

Spend a relaxing vacation at Seneca Lake at Watkins Glen, New York.  Credit: Getty Images/Craig Rupp

From a base on the northern shore of  Lake Seneca , you’ll be about half an hour from Waterloo, but still able to explore the bounty the area has to offer, from fishing (Lake Geneva is known for its annual trout derby) to wine tasting on the Seneca or Cayuga Wine Trails . If the weather cooperates you can take to the water — canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available to rent, or head about an hour south to Watkins Glen where Captain Bill’s Lake Cruises offer sightseeing tours and dinner cruises; a 50-minute cruise starts at $28.50 for adults ( senecaharborstation.com ).

Things to do if you’re staying on Long Island:

Air show from the water. Grab a group of friends and board the Bay Princess Charter Boat for a trip to see the Bethpage Air Show, May 25-26. Boarding starts at 9 a.m. from Captree State Park. Tickets are $65. Bonus — you don’t have to worry about parking. (3500 Ocean Pkwy., Babylon; bayprincess.com ). 

Escape the crowds . When everyone’s heading east, go west. The Rockaway Hotel has a full-service spa, pool and a wide variety of yoga classes. Rooms start at $470 (108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr., Rockaway Park; therockawayhotel.com )

Baby animals. Play with baby goats, lambs and bunnies at the Harbes Family Farm’s second annual Baby Animal Festival, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 25-27. The festival is free and there’s live music daily from 1 to 5 p.m. If you want to spend the day, the Barnyard Adventure includes activities like a hayride farm tour and pig races; $27.95 (715 Sound Ave., Mattituck; harbesfamilyfarm.com ).

Book a stay at Belhurst Castle (4069 West Lake Rd., Geneva, 315-781-0201, belhurst.com ) which offers three different lodgings including a lakeside inn, rooms start at $358 and dining options include a steakhouse and a tavern. Another option is the 41 Lakefront Hotel (41 Lakefront Dr., Geneva, 800-843-2400, wyndhamkhotels.com ). Rooms start at $279.

The great outdoors

Spend the weekend at Niagara Campground and Resort in Niagara Falls, New York.  Credit: Alamy Stock Photo/Wirestock, Inc. / Alamy Stock Photo

Going to bed when it gets dark and waking up with the sun is among the major joys of camping, says Kim Lerner. “I’ve been camping since I was a child,” says the East Meadow resident, who now heads to a campsite with her family at least once a year. “The peace, the beautiful crisp air, the stars in the sky … it all restores your body,” says Lerner. And once you buy the equipment, it’s a pretty inexpensive vacation, she says, noting she’s paid as little as $40 a night for a campsite.

Upstate New York is rich with campgrounds, many in the Catskills or Adirondacks . Lerner likes the Niagara area, where last year the HTR Niagara Campground & Resort was named one of the 10 best in the Northeast. Private campgrounds can be booked through CampNewYork.com , for public campsites, check out newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com .

The Catskill Game Farm was once one of America's largest privately owned zoo. Today, visitors can stay on the abandoned property and explore what remains. Guests can book a stay at The Old Catskill Game Farm Estate or the private, upscale campsites. Credit: The Old Game Farm

If you’d like things a little less rustic, choices are endless, from campgrounds that offer tents already set up for you to slightly fancier cabins or Airstreams. For something truly different, you can camp at an abandoned zoo. The Old Game Farm in Catskill (400 Game Farm Rd., theoldgamefarm.com ) offers tents set up in the woods surrounding what used to be enclosures for hundreds of animals (starting at $160 a night). Or you can stay inside, in a building that was once the giraffe house (starting at $175 a night).

And let’s not forget glamping, where niceties like running water and electricity are generally available. Locations like Treetopia in Catskill (starting at $178, treetopicacampground.com ) and Ithaca by Firelight Camps (starting at $328, firelightcamps.com ) offer safari-like tents and cabins with amenities including high-end bedding and comfortable bath houses. Wherever you go, you’ll find all kinds of hiking and biking trails. In the Catskills, consider a tour on Rail Explorers — you’ll ride pedal-powered vehicles as you take a scenic journey along the Esopus Creek (two-and-a-half-hour tours start at $99; railexplorers.net ).

Go glamping and hang by the pool in the Adirondacks this Memorial Day weekend.  Credit: Chrissy Walther

The French company Huttopia has a glamping resort in the Adirondacks. A tent with a queen bed and bathroom starts at $700 for two nights ( Canada-usa.huttopia.com ). At AutoCamp Catskills ( autocamp.com ), you can book a luxury tent, a vintage Airstream, or a family cabin; nightly rates start at $419 on Memorial Day weekend. Rates generally go down significantly for midweek stays.

Go for a ride

Children riding in inner tubes on the Adventure River ride at the Great Escape, Six Flags in Queensbury, New York. Credit: Corbis via Getty Images/Lisa Wiltse

Every summer brings with it new rides at the big amusement parks. Six Flags Great Escape in Lake George is introducing The Bobcat this year, a wooden coaster that is billed as family-friendly (though you still have to be at least 42 inches tall to ride). For sheer terror, the park’s Kingda Ka is 456 feet high and considered one of the fastest in North America. Daily tickets start at $39 Memorial Day weekend (1172 State Route 9, Queensbury; sixflags.com ).

Legoland New York in Goshen features amusement park rides, family-friendly entertainment, dining and shopping opportunities.  Credit: Business Wire

Smaller children will get a kick out of the Minifigure Skyflyer, new at LEGOLAND New York in Goshen this summer. The ride sends guests soaring over the park in themed party pods. One-day tickets purchased online start at $54 (1 Legoland Way, Goshen; legoland.com ). 

The Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Waterpark offers family accommodations and great options for rainy days. A room for two adults and two children starts at $280 for Memorial Day weekend (89 Six Flags Dr., Queensbury,  sixflagsgreatescapelodge.com ). The Legoland Hotel has themed play areas and nightly entertainment. A room for a family of four, including breakfast and park tickets, starts at $1,147 over Memorial Day weekend ( legoland.com ).

Most Popular

Unlimited Digital Access Only 25¢ for 5 months

Best Things To Do With Kids (Plus the Best Hotels) in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

L ake Geneva hotels are a must when looking to spend time in this stunning destination that's a short drive from Chicago. The perfect spring break destination or weekend getaway that offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery, Lake Geneva has become a popular vacation spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without hours in the car or expensive plane tickets. We have the top Lake Geneva hotels and a list of the best things to do with kids perfect for your getaway.

Photo by author Lauren LaRoche, for Mommy Poppins

Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake activities.

Lake Geneva is known for its crystal-clear waters and offers a range of water activities. Rent a kayak, paddle board, or boat and explore the lake at your own pace. For more adventurous souls, try jet skiing or parasailing and get a thrilling view of the surrounding area from above (weather permitting). There are also a ton of great architecture and tour boats available (weather permitting, tours take place over spring break). 

Hiking and Biking Trails

Spring is the perfect time to explore the stunning natural beauty of Lake Geneva. The area offers numerous hiking and biking trails through picturesque landscapes and charming towns. The  Geneva Lake Shore Path  is a popular trail that takes you around the entire lake, offering gorgeous lake views.

Lake Geneva is home to some of the finest golf courses in the Midwest. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you'll find a course that suits your skill level. If you think golf and kids usually don't mix, wait until you see Barn Hollow, the 18-hole, Par 3 course at Hawk's View Golf Club , created entirely with families in mind. 

Picture of the Angel Fountain in Lake Geneva. Courtesy Canva

Stroll through the streets of downtown Lake Geneva and explore the unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants offering stunning lake views. Don't forget to try the locally brewed craft beers and wines for the adults on the trip.

Some top kid-friendly stops in Lake Geneva include  Kilwins  for ice cream and fudge, Kandy Cove for just about any sweet treat you can dream up, Nina’s Popcorn for freshly popped corn in unique flavor combos like salted caramel, peanut butter and jelly, and cheese,  Allison Wonderland for toys, and Treasure Cove for souvenirs.

Dining Out 

There are seemingly endless choices for eating out with kids in Lake Geneva, but these spots with kid-friendly perks stand out for families.

• Mars Resort (Lake Como)  With great lake views, a beachfront waiting area (kids can play in the sand), a kids menu, and a free boat ride around Lake Como after your meal, this spot should be at the top of your list. 
• Pier 290 (Williams Bay) The outdoor seating (with beach sand tables) offers amazing lake views, and kids can watch boats go in and out of the marina. The kids' menu does not disappoint, either! 
• Café Calamari (Williams Bay)  Located right in the heart of downtown Williams Bay, this kid-friendly spot is across the street from a park. 
• Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn (Fontana)  With great lake views, outdoor seating, a dog-friendly patio, free popcorn, a pool table, and darts, Chuck's Lakeshore Inn is a popular Lake Geneva destination for families. Be sure to arrive early for your dinner, as it switches to 21+ and up later in the evening. 
• Maggie Moos Dairy Ripple (Fontana)  No list wouldn't be complete without a classic ice cream stand! Maggie Moos also has hot food and features fun kids' flavors alongside the traditional ice cream shop sundaes.
• Joni’s Diner (Lake Geneva)  Looking for the perfect breakfast spot for kids? You've found it in Joni's Diner. 
• Next Door Pub (Lake Geneva)  If you don't feel like eating out, this is the place to order great pizza for delivery to any of the Lake Geneva hotels and resorts

Climbing in the treetops in Lake Geneva. Photo courtesy of Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures 

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

For the adrenaline junkies, Lake Geneva Canopy Tours is a must-visit. Zipline through the forest, try the high ropes course or embark on an adventure-filled guided tour that includes hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Weather permitting, you can ski at the Grand Geneva Resort during spring break. Some years, Alpine Valley and nearby Wilmot will still make snow for spring break skiing depending on the weather and temperatures. 

Things to Do When It Rains

If you need a place to hide from the rain, the Geneva Lake Museum  is fun for kids. As soon as you enter, kids are given a scavenger hunt to find items as they look through the museum. Kids and adults will love learning about the history of Lake Geneva and the people who called it home throughout the 1900s (and before). There's even an old-fashioned main street with streetlights and a general store! 

Ten Pin in Walworth is another great option for indoor fun. With delicious pizza and bumper lanes for little ones, you might not even miss the lake.

If you're not staying at the Resort, the Timber Ridge Lodge Indoor Water Park does offer day passes and locker room access when availability permits. If the weather isn't great for boating or the beach, call their reservation line or check their website to see if they have day passes open for the water park. 

Best Lake Geneva Hotels For Families

The Cove is one of the best Lake Geneva hotels for kids. The Cove offers a prime location in downtown Lake Geneva. It’s directly across the street from Geneva Lake so many rooms also offer lake views. For the kids, there is a great outdoor pool with a small splash pad in the summer and an indoor pool and hot tub.

Even though the weather isn’t quite up to outdoor pool temperatures, the kids can have fun splashing in the indoor pool. With its prime location, you can walk to all the shopping and dining in Lake Geneva. This is great for warm spring days when you don't want to buckle the kids in and out of the car seat. 

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

Nestled on 1,300 scenic acres, the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa offers a perfect blend of elegance and adventure. With two championship golf courses, a ski hill, a spa, and a wide variety of dining options, this resort caters to everyone, and you'll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and access to hiking and biking trails.

Timber Ridge Lodge Indoor Water Park

There is no better resort than  Timber Ridge Lodge with its indoor water park including body slides, tube slides, an indoor splash pad, spray ground, and more for families vacationing in Lake Geneva. There is also an arcade for when you need a pool break. Both resorts are located on the same grounds making it easy to take advantage of restaurants and amenities at both. They also offer a free trolley between the two properties. 

Double Splash Down at the Abbey Resort and Spa. Photo by William Prost via Flickr 2.0

The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa

Located right on the shores of Geneva Lake, The Abbey Resort is a luxurious option for your getaway. This is the only resort on our list of Lake Geneva hotels located right on the water of Geneva Lake. It’s located in the town of Fontana. Enjoy spacious rooms with lake views, relax at the spa, or indulge in one of the three on-site dining options.

The resort also offers a variety of activities, including golf, water sports (in the summer), and an arcade for the kids. Over spring break, you’ll have access to their indoor pool and hot tub.

Situated right on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva Inn offers a charming and intimate atmosphere for your vacation. Each room boasts a private balcony or patio overlooking the lake, allowing you to wake up to beautiful views. Indulge in the on-site restaurant's farm-to-table cuisine and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Kids will love the large jetted tubs located inside the suites.

Lazy Cloud Inn

Escape from the world and indulge in a cozy retreat at the Lazy Cloud Inn . This cozy bed and breakfast offers suites with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and private entrances. There are two locations, one in Lake Geneva and one in Fontana.

The Ridge Hotel

For a modern and chic experience, check out The Ridge Hotel on Lake Como. This boutique hotel features stylish and comfortable rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and stunning lake views of Lake Como, a stone’s throw away from Geneva Lake. Take advantage of the indoor pool and Jacuzzi, or rent a bike and explore the area on two wheels.

Ferry Boats and Pleasure Cruises from Lausanne on Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva passenger ferry boats connect Lausanne with Evian and Thonon while pleasure cruise boats go to Montreux, Nyon, Yvoire, and Genève.

Lausanne is one of the best departure ports for cruises on Lake Geneva. A large number of ferry and pleasure boats depart from Lausanne-Ouchy while the Alpine background on these cruises are more spectacular than on excursions closer to Geneva. Passenger ferries operate year-round from Lausanne-Ouchy in Switzerland to Evian and Thonon in France. Pleasure cruises frequently sail from Lausanne to other Lac Léman destinations including Montreux, Chillon Castle , Vevey, the Lavaux , Yvoire , Nyon , and Geneva. Lunch, dinner, and event cruises also depart frequently from Lausanne on Lake Geneva.

The cruise seasons on Lake Geneva are:

• High Season / Summer – end June to early September
• Shoulder Season / Spring & Fall – mid-April to end June and early September to late October
• Low Season / Winter – late October to mid-April

Ferries from Lausanne to Evian and Thonon

Ferryboats cross Lake Geneva year-round from Lausanne-Ouchy in Switzerland to Evian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains in France. The Lausanne-Evian ferry is often the only sensible cruise option during the winter season on Lake Geneva. Passenger ferryboats operate up to 13 times per day between Lausanne and Evian. The Lausanne-Evian crossing takes around 35 minutes with sailing generally every 90 minutes every day of the year.

The Lausanne-Thonon crossing takes between 27 (Navibus) and 50 (regular boats) minutes. The Thonon-Lausanne route can see up to 14 crossing on a summer weekday but does not operate on Sunday outside the summer season.

CGN boats do not connect Evian and Thonon. No car ferries operate on Lake Geneva.

• For more details see: Passenger Ferryboats from Lausanne .

Pleasure Boat Cruises from Lausanne on Lake Geneva

CGN pleasure boat cruises from Lausanne follow two main routings: either to the Upper Lake / Montreux area with spectacular Alpine scenery or down to Geneva. Probably the most scenic cruises on Lake Geneva is in the Haute Lac (Upper Lake) area – the part of the lake between Lausanne / Evian and the Montreux / St Gingolph areas. Here the Alps provide a magnificent backdrop to the south while the spectacular UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed vineyards of the Lavaux cover the northern banks of the lake. Cruising time from Lausanne is around an hour to Vevey, two hours to Montreux / Chateau de Chillon , and 2h40 to St Gingolph.

In summer, around six cruises are available daily and two during the shoulder season. Further cruises on this route starts from Vevey.

• See Lake Cruises from Vevey and Lausanne for more details on these cruises.

The four-hour Lausanne to Geneva cruise is also very popular, stopping en route at amongst others Nyon and Yvoire . During summer, steamboats connect the two largest Lac Léman cities twice per day in each direction. During the shoulder season, the cruise operates once per day on weekends and national holidays only.

• See Passenger Boats between Geneva and Lausanne for more details.

During the winter season , pleasure boat cruises on Lake Geneva from Lausanne are limited to a lunch cruise to Chateau de Chillon or the passenger ferry services to Evian.

Lunch and Dinner Cruises from Lausanne

Food and drinks are available on almost all boats cruising on Lake Geneva – the Navibus to Thonon is generally the only exception. The first class restaurants on the steamships are particularly pleasant. Food and drink are not included in ticket fares and consumption is not obligatory, except on special cruises. Reservations for lunch and dinner are generally not essential but highly recommended, as the restaurants can sit only a limited number of passengers. Prices are similar to good quality restaurants on land, i.e. not cheap but the quality of food is good. After the main lunch has been served, it is possible to simply have coffee (and cakes) as seats become available again. Picnicking is allowed on the open decks.

During the shoulder and winter seasons, special dinner cruises depart usually on Thursday and Friday from Lausanne at around 19:30. The food is usually a special theme for the year, e.g. cheese fondue, Asian buffet, or gourmet food and wine. Reservations for these cruises are essential.

Boat Landing at Lausanne-Ouchy

All boats on Lake Geneva depart in Lausanne from the boat landing in Lausanne-Ouchy. This lovely lakeside area is quite a distance from downtown Lausanne and the train station. Very steep inclines make this definitely not an easy hike, although it is a pleasant stroll from the boat landing to the Olympic Museum .

The easiest way to reach Lausanne-Ouchy from central Lausanne is to use the Metro. M2 stop Ouchy is right across the road from the boat landings. The one-way fare is CHF3.70 (steep, but so are the hills when walking) but is included in the price of a train ticket if “Mobilis Zone 11” is printed on the ticket.

Tickets for CGN Lake Geneva Boat Cruises

Tickets for CGN Lake Geneva boats may generally be bought anywhere where train tickets are for sale. The simplest is from ticket windows at the boat landings, or when these are close on the boat itself. The price is always the same. (The exception is the Navibus Autocontrol cruises – mostly Lausanne-Thonon ferries – where tickets must be bought before boarding the boats.)

It is also possible to buy most tickets and make boat restaurant reservations online from  CGN .

All regular Swiss transportation system and Swiss Railways discounts may be applied to CGN regular cruises and passenger ferryboat services, e.g. half-fare card and Junior Card for children.

See Savings Deals on Lake Geneva Cruise Boats for a range of savings options to make cruising in Lac Léman boats cheaper.

More on Lake Geneva Pleasure Boats and Cruises:

• Pleasure Boats and Ferries on Lake Geneva
• Lake Geneva Boat Cruises in Spring
• Passenger Ferries on Lake Geneva
• Book Cruises at GYG or at CGN
• Passenger Ferries and Cruises from Lausanne to Evian and Thonon
• Savings Tickets for CGN Lake Geneva Boat Cruises
• Summer Lake Geneva Boat Excursions and Day Cruises
• Spring & Autumn Cruises on Lake Geneva
• Winter and Christmas Cruises on Lake Geneva
• Pleasure Boat Excursions to Yvoire
• See the Historic Paddle Steamers at the Parade Navale
• New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruises on Lake Geneva

Home » Lausanne » Ferry Boats and Pleasure Cruises from Lausanne on Lake Geneva

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter

site categories

Justin baldoni explains decision to age up characters in ‘it ends with us,’ credits blake lively for getting taylor swift song in trailer.

"For us, it was just more about making the story more universal," the director and star said of the change made in the adaptation of Colleen Hoover's best-selling novel.

By Kirsten Chuba

Kirsten Chuba

Events Editor

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Email
• Show additional share options
• Share this article on Linkedin
• Share this article on Pinit
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on Tumblr
• Share this article on Whatsapp
• Share this article on Print
• Share this article on Comment

Three days after the It Ends With Us trailer took the internet by storm, director and star Justin Baldoni is opening up about the reaction and some of the most buzzed-about changes from the book to the movie.

Related Stories

Blake lively is swept up by justin baldoni as trauma bubbles in 'it ends with us' trailer, ...ready for it taylor swift's eras tour projected to boost u.k. economy by 1 billion pounds.

At the Los Angeles premiere of The Garfield Movie on Sunday, Baldoni — who is an executive producer on the animated film — spoke about the reaction to the trailer , telling The Hollywood Reporter , “Rightfully so, there was just a lot of anticipation and people I think feeling unsure of what it’s going to be. It’s really hard to take a book that’s beloved and also very important for a lot of social reasons and turn it into a film, and it was kind of the first time anyone was seeing what we were actually making for the last five years. I’m grateful that people see the love and care and the attention that has gone into it from soup to nuts and that we really honored the book, I believe.”

One of the biggest changes in the film adaptation, which has also gotten the most backlash online , is the characters have been aged up — when the book starts out, Lively’s character is just 23. Baldoni explained the decision to make the characters older in the film, noting, “Originally Colleen had written this over 10 years ago, and it was a time when everyone was writing YA and she wanted the characters to be older.

“For us, it was just more about making the story more universal, because this isn’t just a story about a young woman, it’s a story about women, and it does not discriminate,” he added. “So for us it was more about making sure that as many people as possible could understand and relate to the characters and what Lily was experiencing.”

THR Newsletters

Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day

More from The Hollywood Reporter

‘the garfield movie’ review: chris pratt voices the tubby tabby in a toon that fails both kids and their parents, cannes: body-horror flick ‘the substance’ wows fest, getting nine-minute standing ovation, ‘the substance’ review: an excellent demi moore helps sustain coralie fargeat’s stylish but redundant body horror, a24 acquires u.s. rights for ruben östlund’s ‘the entertainment system is down’, tearful kevin costner unveils western gamble ‘horizon’ at cannes: “sorry you had to clap so long”, ‘horizon: an american saga — chapter one’ review: kevin costner gets thrown from his horse in muddled western epic.