Got the winter blues? Longing for a paddle steamer ride in the dark depths of winter? Don’t despair, Vevey remains in service on most Fridays and Sundays on Lake Geneva on through December.

Vevey’s starboard paddle wheel.

Who needs rope handlers ashore with lassoing like this?

On Sundays and Fridays she is scheduled to run fifty five minute trips from Geneva Mont Blanc at 15.15 and 16.15.

On Fridays there are evening fondue cruises also from Geneva scheduled at 19.45 back 22.15 and on Sundays she is scheduled for a lunch cruise from Geneva Mont Blanc at 12.20 back 14.55.

These are all in the schedule at the moment but do check with the operator before going as occasionally Vevey is replaced if booked for a charter.

Vevey’s bow thruster in action.

Vevey emerged from a major rebuild in December 2013 and today is in sparkling form. Her diesel-electric machinery makes her very economical to operate. She has a core crew of  just four, plus catering staff, despite her size and therefore sees much use in winter as well as summer on the lake.

Geneva may seem a long way away from Britain but with easyJet offering return flights for under £50 in December, if you hit the dates right, getting there is not so unaffordable.

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