Ferries on Lake Geneva: A Comprehensive Guide to Routes, Schedules, and Services

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Lake Geneva, straddling Switzerland and France, offers an extensive network of ferry services. These ferries provide essential transportation links between key destinations around the lake, serving both commuters and tourists. With year-round operations on some routes and seasonal variations, the ferries on Lake Geneva offer a unique way to experience the beauty of the region while traveling efficiently.

What Are the Main Ferry Routes on Lake Geneva?

ferries on lake geneva
Image ‘File:Lake Geneva, Geneva (Ank Kumar) 01.jpg’ by Ank Kumar , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The ferries on Lake Geneva operate on three primary routes:

  1. Route N1: Lausanne to Evian-les-Bains
  2. Connects Lausanne (Switzerland) to Evian-les-Bains (France)
  3. Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes

  4. Year-round service with up to 13 daily departures each way

  5. Route N2: Lausanne to Thonon-les-Bains

  6. Links Lausanne (Switzerland) to Thonon-les-Bains (France)
  7. Travel time: Around 50 minutes

  8. Operates year-round on weekdays, with limited weekend service

  9. Route N3: Nyon to Yvoire

  10. Connects Nyon (Switzerland) to Yvoire (France)
  11. Popular for day trips
  12. Operates more frequently during summer months

What Are the Ferry Schedules and Frequency of Service?

ferries on lake geneva
Image ‘File:044 Lake Geneva and Swiss Alps Photo by Giles Laurent.jpg’ by Giles Laurent, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The schedules for ferries on Lake Geneva vary depending on the route and season:

Route N1: Lausanne to Evian-les-Bains

  • Weekdays:
  • First departure from Lausanne: Before 5:00 AM
  • First departure from Evian: 5:40 AM
  • Last departure from Lausanne: 22:30 PM

  • Last departure from Evian: 22:50 PM

  • Sundays:

  • First departure from Lausanne: 9:25 AM
  • First departure from Evian: 10:05 AM

Route N2: Lausanne to Thonon-les-Bains

  • Weekdays:
  • First departure from Lausanne: 4:40 AM
  • First departure from Thonon: 5:40 AM
  • Last departure from Lausanne: 22:30 PM

  • Last departure from Thonon: 11:00 PM

  • Saturdays:

  • First departure from Lausanne: 6:40 AM
  • Last departure from Lausanne: 17:30 PM
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Route N3: Nyon to Yvoire

  • First departures: Around 6:00 AM from Yvoire, 6:30 AM from Nyon
  • Last departures: 19:50 PM from Yvoire, 20:15 PM from Nyon

How Do Seasonal Variations Affect Ferry Services?

The frequency and availability of ferries on Lake Geneva change with the seasons:

  1. High Season (Mid-June to Mid-September)
  2. More frequent departures on all routes

  3. Additional weekend services on Route N2

  4. Shoulder Seasons (Mid-April to Mid-June and Mid-September to Mid-October)

  5. Reduced number of sailings compared to high season

  6. Some weekend services on Route N2

  7. Winter Season (Mid-October to Mid-April)

  8. Limited services, especially on weekends for Route N2
  9. Route N1 continues to operate year-round

What Are the Ticket Prices for Lake Geneva Ferries?

Ticket prices for ferries on Lake Geneva vary by route and class:

Route 2nd Class (One Way) 1st Class (One Way)
N1: Lausanne to Evian CHF 19 (approx.) Not specified
N2: Lausanne to Thonon CHF 30 CHF 42
N3: Nyon to Yvoire CHF 16 CHF 23

Special Rates and Discounts:

  • Daily Pass: CHF 90 for unlimited travel across the lake
  • Round Trip Discounts: Small discounts for same-day returns
  • Advance Booking Discounts: Significant savings when booking early and committing to specific departures

What Amenities Are Available on Lake Geneva Ferries?

Ferries on Lake Geneva offer various amenities to enhance passenger comfort:

  • Most ferries feature a simple bistro
  • First-class sections may have à la carte restaurants
  • Accessibility features for passengers with mobility issues
  • Some ferries (e.g., Navibus boats) may not accommodate bicycles

What Are the Scenic Highlights of Lake Geneva Ferry Routes?

The ferry routes on Lake Geneva offer breathtaking views and scenic experiences:

  • Panoramic vistas of Lake Geneva
  • Views of surrounding hills and mountains
  • French and Swiss shorelines visible from Routes N1 and N2
  • Route N3 showcases the picturesque medieval town of Yvoire
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How Can Passengers Plan Their Lake Geneva Ferry Trip?

To plan a trip on ferries across Lake Geneva:

  1. Check the latest schedules on the official CGN website
  2. Consider seasonal variations when planning your journey
  3. Book tickets in advance for potential discounts
  4. Arrive at the ferry terminal at least 15 minutes before departure
  5. Be aware of parking options near ferry terminals if arriving by car

By following these tips, passengers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the ferries of Lake Geneva, taking in the stunning scenery and efficiently traveling between Swiss and French destinations.

References:
1. https://www.lake-geneva-switzerland.com/lausanne/passenger-ferry-boats-from-lausanne-on-lake-geneva/
2. https://www.myswissalps.com/activity/boat-lake-geneva/
3. https://www.lake-geneva-switzerland.com/all-lake-geneva-ferry-boats/passenger-ferry-boats-on-lake-geneva-in-switzerland-france/

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