Lake Geneva’s boat tours from Lausanne offer some of Europe’s most satisfying Alpine views. The quick 35-minute crossing to Evian is perfect for day-trippers, while wine enthusiasts will appreciate the 2-hour Lavaux vineyard cruise – a journey past UNESCO-listed terraces that’s especially beautiful at sunset. My favorite option is the 3-hour Riviera and Lavaux route, which delivers the best of everything: medieval Chillon Castle, elegant Montreux, and historic Vevey, all backed by snow-capped peaks. These vessels are modern, wheelchair-accessible, and come with smart cancellation policies. Let’s explore the top boat tours from Lausanne…
Key Points
- For a self-guided scenic boat ride, the 35-minute excursion to Evian is highly rated at 4.5/5 and offers wheelchair accessibility.
- The 2-hour Lake Geneva cruise from Lausanne to Vevey showcases stunning views of Lavaux vineyards and charming villages, with an optional audioguide.
- The 3-hour Riviera and Lavaux Region cruise from Lausanne Ouchy provides panoramic vistas of the Lavaux Vineyards, Chillon Castle, Montreux, and Vevey.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with options to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
- Cruises generally receive high traveler ratings, with praise for comfort, scenic views, and ease of navigation, though some issues with audio app functionality have been reported.
Lausanne: Self-Guided Boat Excursion to Evian
Frequently, travelers embark on a self-guided boat excursion from Lausanne to the charming town of Evian, located across Lake Geneva. This scenic 35-minute boat ride costs just €40.83 per person and lasts around 2 hours.
Once in Evian, you’re free to explore the town at your own pace, strolling through the small streets, cafes, and local shops. Don’t miss the lake promenade and historic sites, and consider taking the funicular for stunning views.
The excursion is wheelchair accessible, with two starting locations: Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz in Lausanne and Évian-les-Bains.
While you’ll enjoy the boat transfer, food and drinks aren’t included, and no guide is provided for this self-guided experience.
With a 4.5/5 overall rating based on 46 reviews, travelers praise the comfort, efficiency, and ease of finding the boat.
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve your spot now and pay later.
Read our full review: Lausanne: Self-Guided Boat Excursion to Evian Review
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Lausanne: 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards
One can take a 2-hour roundtrip cruise from Lausanne to Vevey along the stunning Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The cruise is priced from $43.14 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. The cruise departs from Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz 1 in Lausanne, just a 5-minute walk from the M2 Lausanne Ouchy Olympique metro station.
During the cruise, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Lavaux vineyards, charming villages along the hillsides, and the Swiss and French Alps. An audioguide is available through the CGN Tours app.
Onboard, you can relax with local red or white wine, and an upgrade for 1st Class seats is offered. The cruise operates on paddle steamers in spring and autumn, and regular boats in summer.
No Wi-Fi is available onboard. Based on 171 reviews, the cruise has an overall rating of 4.2/5, with positive feedback on the crew’s hospitality and scenic views.
Read our full review: Lausanne: 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards Review
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Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise
The Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise provides a leisurely journey through the stunning landscapes of Lake Geneva. Priced at €54.79 per person, this cruise departs from Lausanne Ouchy aboard a historic paddle steamer, offering breathtaking views of the Lavaux Vineyards, Chillon Castle, Montreux, and Vevey.
You’ll have the opportunity to disembark and explore the charming towns of Montreux and Vevey. An audioguide is available through the CGN Tours app, providing commentary on the sights. While onboard dining is offered, reservations are recommended for lunch.
Upgrade to 1st Class seating to access the upper deck for the best views.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 based on 110 reviews, the cruise is praised for its gorgeous scenery and relaxing experience, although some guests noted issues with the audio app and crowd management.
Flexibility is offered, as you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
You can choose from various boat tours and cruises to explore the stunning scenery around Lausanne. Whether you opt for a self-guided excursion to Evian, a 2-hour cruise along the Lavaux vineyards, or a 3-hour tour of the Riviera and Lavaux region, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding landscapes. These tours provide a relaxing and unique way to experience the beauty of the area.