Lyon: Two New Boats Join the Navigône Fleet
Lyon, June 17, 2026 – A year after its successful launch, the Navigône river shuttle service in Lyon is reinforcing its offerings with the addition of two new electric boats, named “Le Canut” and “La Soyeuse”. These new vessels join “Le Gone” and “La Fenotte”, bringing the Sytral Mobilités fleet to its full operational capacity of four boats simultaneously in service. This expansion marks a significant step for the river line, which has already attracted nearly 200,000 passengers since its inception.
Enhanced Service and Increased Frequency
With the arrival of “Le Canut” and “La Soyeuse”, Navigône aims to further solidify its position as a viable alternative to traditional transport methods between Vaise-Industrie and Confluence. Passengers will now benefit from a passage every 15 minutes during peak hours, a substantial improvement from the previously more spaced-out schedule. This increased frequency is expected to enhance convenience and attract even more commuters to the river shuttle service.
Electric and Environmentally Friendly Vessels
The new shuttles, each 24 meters long and capable of accommodating up to 90 passengers, are entirely electric. They were constructed in Les Sables-d’Olonne, while their batteries were produced near Lyon, highlighting a commitment to local and sustainable manufacturing. The project received support from Ademe and Voies navigables de France to offset the additional costs associated with this decarbonized propulsion system, underscoring the environmental focus of the Navigône service.
Connecting Key Locations Along the Saône
The Navigône route spans 6.2 kilometers, connecting Vaise to Confluence in approximately 37 minutes, with four specially designed stops along the way. This mode of transport is integrated into TCL subscriptions, making it an accessible and convenient option for many residents. Sytral Mobilités harbors ambitions for Navigône to become a lasting and integral part of Lyon’s mobility landscape, contributing to a more diversified and sustainable urban transport network.
A Growing Success Story
Since its launch, Navigône has progressively established itself as a popular and efficient transport solution. The significant number of journeys recorded demonstrates the public’s positive reception to river transport in Lyon. The continuous development and expansion of the service reflect a strategic vision to leverage Lyon’s waterways for urban mobility, offering both residents and visitors a unique and eco-friendly way to navigate the city.
The integration of these new boats is expected to further boost passenger numbers and enhance the overall efficiency and attractiveness of the Navigône service, reinforcing its role in Lyon’s public transport infrastructure.
Source: https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/actualite/lyon-deux-nouveaux-bateaux-rejoignent-la-flotte-navigone
