Choose your fondue cruise provider

For the most up-to-date details, check Geneva travel info before you go.

To plan your trip, review Geneva travel info.

There are several boat sizes available for these dinner tours. Some boats are historic paddle steamers with elegant dining rooms. Others are modern vessels with large glass windows for viewing. Most cruises depart from the Quai du Mont-Blanc pier in the city center.

You should decide if you want a private or public tour. Public cruises are more affordable and offer a lively atmosphere. Private rentals are available for large groups or corporate events. Booking a standard public ticket is the easiest path for most tourists.

Check the 2026 winter cruise schedule

The fondue boats usually run from late October until March. In 2026, the schedule focuses on Friday evening departures. These trips often start around 7:30 PM and last two hours. You should check the Geneva winter events 2026 calendar for holiday updates.

Tickets sell out very quickly during the Christmas season. You should look for dates at least three weeks in advance. Weekend slots are the most popular for locals and visitors alike. Weekday options might appear during the busiest winter months.

The cruise offers a fixed loop around the Geneva harbor. You will see the Jet d'Eau fountain illuminated at night. The boat also passes by beautiful lakeside villas and parks. The winter lights make the shoreline look truly magical from the water.

Complete your online booking step by step

To start, visit the official CGN website on your computer. Look for the "Events" or "Dining Cruises" section on the menu. Select the "Fondue Cruise" option from the list of available tours. This is the fastest way to see live availability for 2026.

Choose your preferred date and the number of people in your group. You will need to provide a valid email address for the tickets. Most major credit cards are accepted for the online payment. Make sure to save your digital confirmation on your phone.

The price usually includes the boat ride and the cheese fondue. Drinks and desserts are often charged as extra costs on board. A standard ticket for an adult costs between 50 and 70 CHF. Always double-check the total price before you click the pay button.

Check if you have a Swiss Travel Pass or a Geneva City Pass. These cards sometimes offer discounts on the transport portion of the cruise. You must enter the discount code during the checkout process. This can save you a significant amount of money on your meal.

Essential tips for your fondue cruise

The lake can feel very cold during the winter months. Even though the cabin is heated, you should wear warm layers. A heavy coat is necessary if you want to step outside. You will want to take photos of the city lights from the deck.

Arrive at the pier at least twenty minutes before the departure time. The boat leaves exactly on schedule and will not wait for late guests. Boarding usually begins fifteen minutes before the engines start. This gives you time to find your reserved table and get settled.

It is helpful to learn some fondue etiquette for tourists before you dine. For example, never double-dip your bread into the communal cheese pot. If you lose your bread in the pot, tradition says you must buy a drink. These small rules make the experience more fun for everyone.

Best winter fondue restaurants Geneva

If the boat is full, you can still find amazing cheese. Many of the best winter fondue restaurants Geneva are located in the Old Town. These spots offer a historic atmosphere with stone walls and wooden beams. They are perfect for a cozy night out in the city.

Another popular choice is the Bains des Pâquis fondue experience. This restaurant is located right on the water in a public bathhouse. It is very casual and much cheaper than the cruise. You must book a table here several days in advance.

Local restaurants often serve a half-and-half fondue made with Gruyère and Vacherin. This blend is famous for being very smooth and rich. Most places serve the cheese with bread, boiled potatoes, and pickled onions. You can also order dried meats to accompany your meal.