Lyon, France – The TCL public transport network in Lyon has taken a significant step towards sustainable mobility by electrifying its Navigône fluvial line on the Saône River. Two new electric boats, named ‘Le Gone’ and ‘La Fenotte’, have commenced operations, replacing the initial thermal vessels and marking a new era for river transport in the city.
Electric Transformation of the Navigône Line
The Navigône line, launched in June 2025, has successfully transported 120,000 passengers since its inception. Initially operating with thermal boats, the transition to electric propulsion reflects Sytral Mobilités’ commitment to environmental sustainability and modernizing public services. These new electric catamarans, manufactured in France, are designed to minimize noise and environmental impact, offering a more comfortable and eco-friendly travel experience.
Each electric boat, costing 4.2 million euros, can accommodate up to 90 passengers and includes six bicycle spaces. Bruno Bernard, President of the Métropole de Lyon and Sytral, highlighted the scenic views offered by the boats’ large windows, emphasizing the enhanced travel experience for passengers.
Increased Frequencies and Future Expansion
The introduction of the electric fleet is part of a broader plan to improve service frequencies. Currently, two electric boats are operational, with two more expected to join the fleet by spring 2026. This expansion will allow for a significant increase in service frequency, reducing waiting times to 15 minutes during peak hours (currently 30 minutes) and 30 minutes during off-peak hours (currently 60 minutes). This aims to accommodate the projected 560,000 annual passengers once the service is fully deployed.
The Navigône line, also known as “Navi 1,” connects Vaise-Industrie to the Terrasses de la Presqu’île in 23 minutes. It also serves Confluence on Wednesdays, during school holidays, and on public holidays, offering a convenient and picturesque alternative to traditional land-based transport.
Investment and Accessibility
The total investment for this project is estimated at 26 million euros, covering studies, the development of four river stops (Confluence, Presqu’île, Subsistances, and Vaise industries), and the acquisition of the entire fleet. Seven million euros were specifically allocated to fitting out the four river stops, partially funded by VNF and the State as part of the State-Region plan contract.
Access to the Navigône service is integrated into the TCL subscription, allowing subscribers to use the fluvial line without additional cost. For non-subscribers, a single journey costs 3 euros, and a return ticket is 5 euros. However, unlike a classic TCL ticket, the Navigône ticket is only valid for the river shuttle.
Despite the success and positive reception, the service faces challenges such as potential disruptions due to adverse weather conditions like low water levels or floods, which could affect operations for 20 to 30 days annually. Additionally, initial infrastructure at some stops was not fully complete at the launch, with dynamic display systems for real-time information expected to be installed by the start of the next academic year.
A Broader Vision for Lyon’s Mobility
The electrification of the Navigône line is a key component of Lyon’s broader strategy to enhance urban mobility and promote sustainable transport solutions. It complements other initiatives such as the expansion of the Vélo’v electric bike sharing system, which saw 2,500 new electric bikes deployed in January 2025, and the ongoing development of the “Presqu’île à vivre” project, which aims to pedestrianize and revitalize the city center.
This move towards greener transport options underscores Lyon’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and creating a more livable urban environment for its residents and visitors alike. The Navigône is poised to become a symbol of sustainable mobility in Lyon, offering a unique and efficient way to navigate the city’s waterways.
Sources: [lyoncapitale.fr](https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/mobilites/retro-2025-zfe-bateaux-tcl-velo-v-ztl-un-an-de-mobilites-a-lyon), [lyoncapitale.fr](https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/mobilites/tcl-les-deux-premieres-navettes-fluviales-electriques-naviguent-sur-la-saone), [lyonmag.com](https://www.lyonmag.com/article/148050/lyon-le-navigone-passe-a-l-electrique-une-nouvelle-ere-pour-la-mobilite-fluviale-lyonnaise), [lyoncapitale.fr](https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/actualite/lyon-depuis-leur-lancement-en-juin-les-navettes-fluviales-tcl-ont-embarque-50-000-voyageurs), [sytral-mobilites.fr](https://sytral-mobilites.fr/fr/projets-mis-en-service/navettes-fluviales_-r.html)
