Lausanne stands out not just for its lively city streets and mountain vistas but also for its beautiful Lake Geneva and the surrounding Lavaux vineyards. Exploring this area by boat offers a different perspective—one that combines scenic beauty with a touch of Swiss elegance. Out of the options available, the Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise is a favorite for its comprehensive route through vineyards, historic castles, and lakeside towns, all enjoyed aboard a charming paddle steamer. Its high rating of 4.2/5 from over 130 reviews attests to its quality, and the opportunity to upgrade to First Class seats makes it even more appealing. Whether you’re a fan of stunning views, historical sights, or just relaxing on the water, this cruise hits the mark.
For those looking for a shorter, relaxed experience, the Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon provides a more straightforward journey with equal scenic delights. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful cruise with fewer stops and a focus on sightseeing. This latter tour has a slightly lower rating but is praised for its calm atmosphere, friendly crew, and beautiful landscapes. Both tours offer a taste of the lakeside life, but each suits different preferences—whether you want a full three-hour exploration or a quick, scenic round trip.
Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison of each tour, helping you choose the cruise that matches your interests, schedule, and sense of adventure.
1. Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise. This tour offers a memorable 3-hour journey on a historic paddle steamer, taking you through some of the most picturesque parts of Lake Geneva. You’ll start from two convenient locations—either Quai Jean-Pascal Delamuraz or De Luna—and glide past the Lavaux vineyards, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The views of these terraced vineyards, stretching along the lake’s edge, are truly impressive and perfect for photography.
A highlight of this cruise is its scenic views of Chillon Castle, one of Switzerland’s most iconic sites, seen from the water in all its medieval glory. The route also passes through Montreux and Vevey, giving you a broad perspective of the Riviera region. The boat’s vintage charm is a big part of the appeal, and the option to upgrade to First Class seats means less crowded spaces and better views from the top deck. The flexible itinerary includes stops at Saint-Gingolph, Le Bouveret, Villeneuve, and others, making it a comprehensive introduction to the region.
The reviews highlight the stunning scenery even in less-than-perfect weather, and many appreciate the vintage boat experience. One reviewer noted, “It was a beautiful ride, and the paddle steamer added a nostalgic touch.” Although some found it slightly expensive, many agree that the views and comfort justify the cost. This tour is ideal for travelers who want an all-around experience, combining scenic views with a historical boat journey.
Bottom Line: A scenic, comfortable cruise that offers a well-rounded view of the lakeside vineyards, castles, and towns—perfect if you want to see the region in style.
2. Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon
Next on our list is the Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon. For around $69, this 3-hour steam-powered journey takes you directly from Lausanne to the Château de Chillon, one of Switzerland’s most famous castles. The route offers magnificent views of the Lavaux vineyards, the Riviera, and the Alps, all from the comfort of an elegant boat. The cruise is designed for relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to sit back and enjoy the scenery while the crew takes care of the details.
The actual arrival at Chillon Castle is a major highlight—imagine approaching this medieval fortress by water, then exploring the site afterward. This cruise is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, friendly crew, and the sheer beauty of the scenery, making it ideal for travelers seeking a calm, straightforward experience. Reviewers mentioned enjoying “a great relaxing cruise with beautiful views and good snacks,” emphasizing its laid-back vibe.
While it doesn’t have the same extensive itinerary as the first tour, it offers a focused experience, perfect if your priority is the castle view and lakeside ambiance without extra stops. Its lower rating compared to the first cruise is partly due to fewer stops, but the consistent praise for the scenery and comfort makes it a solid choice for a quick, scenic day on the water.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic cruise focusing on the journey to Chillon Castle, ideal for those who want a peaceful trip with breathtaking views.
How to Choose
Choosing between these two wonderful boat tours depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a longer, more immersive experience that covers a variety of sights, the Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise offers a broader view of the lakeside and vineyards, plus a vintage steamer experience. On the other hand, if your time is limited or you’re eager to see Chillon Castle from the water, the Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon provides a relaxing, scenic ride with a focus on that iconic castle.
When planning your trip, consider your budget—both tours are fairly close in price, but the first offers an upgrade option. Think about your interests: do you want to explore multiple towns and vineyards or just enjoy a peaceful cruise with a historic castle? Also, check availability and book early during peak seasons to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Lausanne offers some superb boat options. The 3-hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise is ideal if you want a full, scenic experience with historical and vineyard views, especially if you enjoy vintage boats and a bit of luxury. Meanwhile, the Chillon round-trip cruise is perfect for a quick, relaxing outing focused on the castle and lakeside scenery.
For different travelers—families, couples, or solo explorers—these cruises provide a memorable way to enjoy Lake Geneva’s natural beauty without much hassle. If you’re planning a trip, I recommend booking early, especially in high season, to ensure your spot on these popular excursions. Either way, taking to the water is a wonderful way to appreciate Lausanne’s lakeside charm.
Enjoy your time in Lausanne, and don’t forget—sitting back and watching the Swiss Alps drift by from a boat is one of those simple pleasures you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home!
