Lake Lucerne Navigation Company

One of our Product Managers (and Swiss fanatic), Sally, attests that there is nothing else quite like this new for 2025, luxury offering from Lake Lucerne Navigation Company – operators of one of Switzerland’s most important transport systems.  

“I really, really loved this but I don’t want to spoil any surprises so I’ll give an overview that I hope will tempt you to experience this wonderful day out without giving too much away!

This 5-hour excursion is very high-end but still laid-back and makes for the perfect escape from the city crowds. From the turquoise water of Lake Lucerne, you’ll set sail from the city centre in the morning, leaving the quay with a glass of something fizzy and delicious on a vintage century-old paddle steamer ship. The day is spent relaxing on board or on deck, and takes you on a guided tour of the entire lake; hearing tales of its towns, villages, mountains and important historical sites as well as the history of the shipping company from its founder Casimir Friedrich Knörr himself*, which has been running for nearly 200 years, since 1837. You’ll enjoy all this over an assortment of 5 delicious gourmet courses (plus a surprise 6th!) – each with specially-selected free-flowing wines throughout the day (or soft drinks) which have also been paired to the food.

The service is exceptional; dietary requirements can be catered for – there are full vegetarian, vegan, gluten and lactose free menus available and also a range of alcohol-free wines  - which would be an incredible level of catering in a land-based restaurant, so is even more impressive when prepared on board a moving ship! When and where else could you savour Swiss specialities, washed down with a glass of fine wine while watching 100-year-old paddles powering you along a beautiful lake? Answers on a postcard…

In short, if you're looking for something different, special, luxurious that comes with the added bonus of some peace and quiet, this is a fantastic option and as I really believe that as more people experience it, the word of mouth will make this a must-do in central Switzerland.

(*disclaimer: it's an actor!)”

Sally Barlow

Product Manager

In addition, the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company operates their fleet of ships all around the lake year-round, forming part of the day-to-day Swiss Travel System for tourists and locals alike. Serving 32 stopping points around the lake, running all day, and tying in with the regional trains means you can also have a short trip on one of the paddle steamers (or one of the motor vessels depending on the timetable) to one of the mountains, lakeside resorts or to join the Gotthard Panorama Express. In this case, the ships are included on a Swiss Travel Pass too (there is a reduction for Legends of Lake Lucerne excursion, not included in a Swiss Travel Pass).