The mission of the friends of Lake Geneva's steamships
Preserving the world's largest Belle Époque fleet
Since 2002, ABVL's mission has been to seek funding and take all necessary measures for the preservation and maintenance in hourly service of the eight Belle Époque boats of the Compagnie Générale de Navigation on Lake Geneva.
Faced with the threat of disappearance of this century-old fleet, our association is mobilizing donors, members and partners to finance large-scale restorations and guarantee the navigation of these nationally important listed monuments.
This collective mission makes us the guarantor of the preservation of the largest collection of Belle Époque sailing boats in the world.
Why was ABVL created?
In 2002, the CGN's Belle Époque fleet faced an existential threat. The maintenance and restoration costs of these eight century-old boats jeopardized their survival. Faced with this alarming situation, a group of enthusiasts created the ABVL to mobilize civil society and raise the necessary funds to safeguard this unique heritage. Without this intervention, several ships would have been permanently decommissioned bringing to an end more than a century of steam navigation on Lake Geneva.
These boats, built between 1904 and 1927, represent much more than means of transport: they are witnesses to a bygone era, masterpieces of engineering and symbols of Lake Geneva identity. Their classification as historical monuments of national importance in 2011 confirmed their exceptional heritage value. Today, the Lake Geneva fleet constitutes the largest collection of Belle Époque steamships still in regular hourly service in the world, a distinction that engages our collective responsibility.
Strategic shareholder of the CGN
Operational partner for restaurants
In close collaboration with the CGN, we define restoration priorities, validate technical choices, and finance large-scale projects. Our expertise and network of specialized craftsmen make ABVL much more than a funder: we are jointly responsible for each project, from planning to completion.
Four complementary missions
Funding the restorations
We raise the necessary funds for complete boat renovations. Every large-scale project, such as "La Suisse" and the "Italie", relies on the generosity of our donors and members to preserve the Belle Époque authenticity.
Ensure maintenance
The fleet requires ongoing maintenance: steam engine overhauls, boiler maintenance, and deck repairs. We finance these essential operations, which guarantee daily navigation and passenger safety.
Preserving know-how
Restoring Belle Époque architecture requires rare skills: blowing curved glass, carving exotic woods, and steam mechanics. We fund the training of artisans and the transmission of these techniques, which are threatened with extinction.
Raise awareness
Through our publications, events, and communications, we raise awareness of the importance of this fleet and create an engaged community. Every passionate individual becomes an ambassador for Lake Geneva's maritime heritage.
Over 20 years of action, concrete results
Since its creation in 2002, the ABVL has raised over 40 million francs and financed the complete or partial restoration of the eight boats in the fleet. "La Suisse" regained its original splendor in 2009 and is now considered the most beautiful steamship in the world. The "Italie" which had been out of service for ten years, was put back into operation in 2016. The "Simplon" has undergone two major renovations. Today, thanks to the commitment of 20 donors and 000 active members, these historic vessels transport more than 4 passengers annually and are a cornerstone of tourism on Lake Geneva.
Key visual figures
- 2002 year of creation
- 40M + CHF raised
- 8 preserved boats
- 22 % CGN capital
- 20'000 donors
- 4'000 active members
The challenges of the coming decades
Our mission doesn't end with the restorations already completed. The coming years will see the complete renovation of the "Rhône" (1927), one of the fleet's flagship vessels. Beyond that, each boat will require regular maintenance for the next 50 to 100 years. Our vision: to ensure that these eight boats continue to sail in 2100, in their authentic Belle Époque state, while passing on artisanal skills to future generations.
This involves building up sustainable financial reserves, training specialists capable of maintaining these centuries-old techniques, and continually strengthening the commitment of civil society around this living heritage. Preserving these boats is an intergenerational commitment.
Join our mission
The preservation of the Belle Époque fleet cannot exist without the commitment of thousands of people. Whether you are passionate about maritime heritage, a lover of Lake Geneva, or simply convinced of the importance of passing on our history, your support is essential. Together, let's ensure these boats continue to sail for future generations.
Fund the restorations
Every donation directly contributes to ongoing restoration projects and fleet maintenance. Whether a one-time or recurring contribution, your financial support is essential to preserving these historic vessels and ensuring their future navigation.
Join the community
By becoming a member, you join a community of 4,000 enthusiasts dedicated to preserving the fleet. Receive our exclusive newsletter, participate in our events, and enjoy benefits reserved for active ABVL members.