CGN Lake Geneva Cruise

The Compagnie Générale de Navigation sur le lac Léman, known as CGN, operates the passenger boats of Lake Geneva, with its Geneva departures from the Jardin Anglais pier on the Quai du Général-Guisan in Switzerland. The fleet includes eight Belle Époque paddle steamers, among the largest collections of such vessels in the world, alongside modern motor ferries. The steamers, some dating to the early 20th century, have polished brass, wooden decks, and engine rooms visible through glass so that passengers can watch the pistons move. From Geneva, the short lake tour of about one hour loops around the Rade, giving views of the Jet d'Eau, the old town, the Pâquis and the Alps on clear days. Longer scheduled routes continue to Nyon, Lausanne, Vevey, Montreux and the Château de Chillon, with Lausanne taking around three to four hours depending on the boat. Passengers can sit on open decks, in saloons, or in the onboard restaurant. Summer brings the fullest timetable, with more departures and themed trips, while winter service is reduced and some routes are limited. The best views are from the open upper decks on the side facing the lake's French shore, where the Alps rise behind the vineyards, and a morning departure gives clear light. A short tour takes one hour, while a full-day trip with a return by train suits visitors with more time. Weekends and sunny afternoons are the busiest, while weekday mornings are calmer. Swiss Travel Pass holders can travel without extra charge on many routes, and children pay roughly half fare. Tickets are bought at the pier or online with the official CGN site, and the Jardin Anglais pier is a two-minute walk from the Pont du Mont-Blanc. Boats can be cancelled in bad weather or strong wind.