Living heritage sails on Lake Geneva

Climbing aboard a Belle Epoque boat on Lake Geneva is like stepping into a veritable monument. In terms of size, the quality of its conservation and its uniformity, this fleet is now the most important anywhere in the world. This heritage has the quite amazing characteristic of being a living, moving thing as no fewer than six boats operate on the lake this year, providing both a regular service and private cruises.

Renovation work on the Rhône, the last steam-powered paddle-wheeler built entirely in Switzerland, will begin in May. From 2021, the CGN will therefore have a sufficiently large fleet to operate almost all its peak-season tourist services with Belle Epoque boats and, more particularly, to offer the passengers aboard a journey back in time. The wood panelling in the salons, the steam engines and the external fittings are carefully maintained thanks to cutting-edge know-how so that they remain as faithful as possible to their original appearance.

By coincidence, the Rhône was brought into service in 1927 on the occasion of a unique event: the Fête des Vignerons. This event, dating back to the 17^th century, is held once a generation in Vevey. The first historical cultural practice recognised by UNESCO in Switzerland, it will take place once again in 2019. Like the CGN, which is a dedicated partner of the event, the Fête des Vignerons embodies the continuity of traditions in the region around the lake and, in our globalised society, serves to reiterate the importance of maintaining a link to the past and thus to our roots.

By sailing with the CGN, you too play your part in keeping this centuries-old practice of shipping and recreational sailing on Lake Geneva alive and well. We make every effort to ensure that the welcome on-board, the culinary fare and the diversity of routes on offer combine the beauty of the landscape with that of the boats to offer you a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

We hope you enjoy your time aboard the vessels of the Belle Epoque fleet and our other boats operating on Lake Geneva.

Do you have a remark, a question or a proposal for us concerning the magazine or any other topic?

Please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at info@cgn.ch or by letter at CGN, Avenue de Rhodanie 17, CP 390, 1001 Lausanne.

We are looking forward to hearing from you!