Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon

Experience a Scenic Cruise from Lausanne to Chillon for $68.68

This round trip cruise from Lausanne offers a relaxed way to enjoy Lake Geneva’s breathtaking landscapes for $68.68 per person. With an approximate duration of 3 hours, the tour combines comfortable navigation on a steamboat with spectacular views of the Lavaux vineyards, the Riviera region, and the Alps. The cruise includes a stunning arrival at Château de Chillon, one of the most iconic landmarks on Lake Geneva.

Travelers who appreciate scenic vistas, leisurely boat rides, and the chance to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site will find this cruise appealing. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to board, and the most popular bookings are made about 25 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. Though the rating is 3.5/5 from 15 reviews, many praise the beautiful landscapes and friendly crew, with some noting the multiple stops as a point of concern.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $68.68 for approximately 3 hours of scenic cruising
• Departure Point: Starts at Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz 1, Lausanne
• Highlights: Views of Lavaux vineyards, Alps, and arrival at Château de Chillon
• Stops Include: St Gingolph, Le Bouveret, Villeneuve, Montreux, Vevey, with scenic vineyard views between Vevey and Lausanne
• Inclusions: Restroom onboard; food and drinks are available for purchase but lunch is not included
• Booking: Most travelers book around 25 days in advance; free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
• Limitations: No alcoholic beverages, coffee, or snacks included; multiple stops might extend travel time slightly beyond a simple round trip

Lausanne’s Meeting Point and Ease of Boarding

The tour begins at Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz 1 in Lausanne, a location accessible near public transportation, which makes it straightforward for most travelers to reach. The boarding process is simple—no need to exchange tickets, just present your mobile ticket, and you can step aboard directly. The departure is clearly marked on the billboard, ensuring smooth start to your 3-hour voyage.

The return is to the same starting point, completing a convenient loop along Lake Geneva. The capacity of the boat is designed to accommodate up to 650 travelers, offering a comfortably spacious experience.

Scenic Highlights of the Lake Geneva Cruise

The primary appeal of this cruise lies in the spectacular views it offers. As the boat heads towards St Gingolph—the furthest point at the end of Lake Geneva—passengers enjoy vistas of the Riviera and the Alps framing the landscape. The navigation on a steamboat adds a nostalgic charm to the journey, enhancing the experience.

Between Vevey and Lausanne, the boat passes directly along the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO Heritage site known for its terraced wine villages. The boat makes several stops in these charming wine villages, allowing travelers to appreciate the picturesque scenery and perhaps explore local wine culture.

The Arrival at Château de Chillon

One of the standout moments of this cruise is the spectacular arrival at Château de Chillon. This medieval fortress, located on a small island, is a highlight of Lake Geneva’s shoreline. The view of the castle from the boat provides a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable sight that enhances the overall experience.

Onboard Comforts and Dining Options

While the cruise includes a restroom onboard, it does not include beverages or lunch. Travelers can purchase coffee, tea, soda, or alcoholic drinks during the journey, but lunch is not part of the package. There is an option on the midday cruise to eat on board, but reservation is required, and the meal must be paid for separately.

The boat’s comfortable setting and relaxing atmosphere make it an ideal way to unwind while soaking in the scenery. The crew is noted for being friendly and welcoming, contributing to the overall pleasant ride.

The Stops and the Notable Lake Geneva Villages

The boat’s route includes stops in several lakeside villages, such as Le Bouveret, Villeneuve, Montreux, and Vevey. These towns are known for their charm and cultural attractions, with Montreux especially famous for its music festivals, and Vevey for its cultural scene.

The scenic journey along the vineyard-lined coastline between Vevey and Lausanne is a highlight, giving travelers an up-close view of Lavaux’s terraced vineyards. These stops are brief, but they add a sense of connection to the local region.

The Experience of the Lavaux Vineyards

The Lavaux vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for their terraced wine-producing slopes. The cruise passes directly along these vineyards with several stops, offering an opportunity to appreciate the landscape and possibly taste local wines if desired. The region’s unique terraced layout makes for a spectacular backdrop to the boat ride.

The Guide and Crew’s Role

While the provided information does not specify guide details, reviews mention a friendly and welcoming crew. The experience is more about the scenery and atmosphere than guided commentary, though some reviews appreciated the crew’s hospitality. The crew’s professionalism ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Most bookings are made around 25 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The ticket is mobile, making access straightforward. The public cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the cruise, offering peace of mind in case of unexpected changes. The cruise is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Limitations and Considerations

This cruise does not include lunch or beverages beyond what can be purchased onboard, so travelers seeking a full dining experience should plan accordingly. Some reviews mention multiple stops as a concern, feeling it may be a waste of time for those interested solely in a direct cruise. However, for those who enjoy leisurely exploration, this adds to the charm.

The rating of 3.5/5 suggests that while many enjoy the scenery and atmosphere, some find the stops excessive or not to their taste. Despite this, the spectacular landscapes and iconic Château de Chillon remain key highlights.

Who Will Appreciate This Lake Geneva Cruise?

This 3-hour cruise suits those looking for a relaxed experience with beautiful views of Lake Geneva, vineyards, and the Alps. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts, wine lovers exploring Lavaux, or anyone wanting a scenic boat ride without a rigorous schedule.

However, travelers expecting a full meal included or guided commentary may find the experience lacking. The self-guided nature and scenic stops make this best suited for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Château de Chillon: The Iconic Landmark

The arrival at Château de Chillon is perhaps the most memorable part of the cruise. This medieval castle offers a dramatic backdrop for photos and a chance to visit this historic site. While the cruise itself doesn’t include a castle visit, the close proximity makes it a must-see for visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Lausanne to Chillon Cruise

This lake cruise offers a gentle, scenic escape from the city of Lausanne. It provides stunning vistas of vineyards, mountains, and the lake, with the Château de Chillon as a highlight. The comfortable boat, friendly crew, and easy access make it a practical choice for a half-day outing.

While the multiple stops and lack of included lunch are points to consider, the spectacular scenery and peaceful atmosphere are its main strengths. It’s best suited for those eager to relax and capture beautiful images rather than those seeking a guided tour or full dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children are welcome.

Can I cancel my booking for a full refund?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Are drinks included?
No, coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol can be purchased onboard, but not included in the ticket.

Is there an option to eat on board?
Yes, on the midday cruise, it’s possible to eat on board with a reservation and additional payment.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins and ends at Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz 1 in Lausanne.

How long is the cruise?
The approximate duration is 3 hours.

What are the main highlights?
Scenic views of Lavaux vineyards, the Alps, and the arrival at Château de Chillon.

Is there commentary during the cruise?
The data does not specify guided commentary, so expect a self-guided sightseeing atmosphere.

What is the capacity of the boat?
The boat can accommodate up to 650 travelers.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.