Episode 123: Must-Try Lake Lucerne Cruises for an Unforgettable Swiss Getaway
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If you’re dreaming of visiting Switzerland and wondering about the best way to explore Lake Lucerne, this episode’s for you!
I’m chatting with Sabine Föhn from the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company about everything you need to know for an unforgettable lake cruise experience. We’ll talk about different types of cruises, whether you want a short boat ride, a historical paddle steamer experience, or something fancy like a sunset dinner cruise.
Plus, I’ll tell you how the Swiss Travel Pass can make your trip even easier and cheaper. We also dive into some cool sustainable travel options that are in use, like hybrid boats and solar fuel!
And that’s not all! If you love outdoor adventures, we’ll also cover the best mountain excursions you can combine with your cruises. We share how you can enjoy the amazing views from Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, plus we reveal the details of a brand new premium culinary cruise on Lake Lucerne.
I’ll also share some tips on booking your tickets, including advice on first-class seating for a more relaxing trip. So grab your travel notebook and get ready to plan a perfect day exploring the stunning Lake Lucerne in Switzerland!
Click the green button below to listen:
Show Notes
In this episode you’ll learn about:
- The different vessels operating on Lake Lucerne
- The different types of cruises that are available
- Lake Lucerne Navigation Company’s sustainability measures
- Cruising for free on Lake Lucerne with the Swiss Travel Pass
- Legends of Lake Lucerne premium culinary cruise
Our Guest
Sabine Föhn is the International Sales Manager for Lake Lucerne Navigation Company. Her role includes assisting B2B clients in North America.
Lake Lucerne cruises mentioned in this episode
>> Legends of Lake Lucerne cruise – Commencing in May 2025, this four hour premium culinary cruise offers an experience like no other. Dine on a delicious five-course menu prepared using regional ingredients whilst you hear fascinating stories of the region and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Lucerne. The cruise, aboard the Paddle Steamer Gallia, is limited to just 65 guests. The cruise will operate from 15 May to 15 September. More info here >>
>> Sunset cruise – Each evening during summer, guests can watch the sunset over Lake Lucerne on this two and a half hour cruise. There is also the option to dine onboard.
>> Lunch time cruise – Embark on a relaxing 1 hour and 45 minute cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne. Departing daily at 12 noon, the cruise travels as far as Vitznau before returning to Lucerne. Guests have the option to dine onboard (additional cost). Table reservations can be made in advance. More info here >>
>> Burgenstock cruise – This 55-minute round trip cruise offers superb views of Mt. Rigi, Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Burgenstock and the city of Lucerne. The cruise operates all year round aboard a beautiful Catamaran. More info here >>
>> Grand Lake cruise – Cruise from one end of Lake Lucerne to the other on this cruise between Lucerne and Flüelen (and vice versa). The 5.5-hour round trip cruise operates every day. It’s also possible to combine a one way cruise with the Gotthard Panorama Express train which travels between Flüelen and Lugano. More info about the cruise here >>
>> Cruise with Mt. Rigi excursion – Why not combine a lake cruise with a visit to Mt. Rigi? The Classic Rigi Round Trip includes travel by boat from Lucerne to Vitznau, a cogwheel train ride to Mt. Rigi, a cable car ride from Rigi to Weggis and a boat ride back to Lucerne. This excursion is possible all year round.
>> Cruise with Mt. Pilatus excursion – During the summer months combining a lake cruise with an excursion to Mt. Pilatus is possible. The Pilatus Golden Round Trip includes travel by bus from Lucerne to Kriens, a cable car ride to Pilatus summit, a cogwheel train ride to Alpnachstad and a cruise from there back to Lucerne.
Planning a trip to Switzerland?
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Useful resources
Visit the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company’s website for timetables and details about the different cruises and read our ultimate guide to Lake Lucerne cruises.
Plan your visit to the Lake Lucerne region with our many Lucerne travel guides.
Listen to other podcast episodes about Lucerne: Episode 57 Things to do in Lucerne; Episode 105 The best day trips from Lucerne. We also have episodes about visiting Mt. Rigi and visiting Mt. Pilatus.
Learn more about the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of the discounts offered by our Swiss travel partners.
👉 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland.
> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.
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