Moby Dick Nautical Center - Versoix

A foot in the water by Lake Geneva

Located at the Vieux-Port of Versoix, the Moby-Dick Nautical Center is a local institution: a sailing and motorboat school complemented by a rental service, situated directly on the shore of Lake Geneva. The atmosphere is family-friendly and welcoming, exactly the kind of place where you come to enjoy a good time in the sun without any stress. For families, it’s an opportunity to introduce children to the simple pleasures of water, at their own pace.

What your children will discover

Here, the lake becomes a playground. Depending on the age and desire of each person, you can embark together for a leisurely ride or let the older ones test their balance.

• The pedalo, a safe bet for families: everyone pedals, you gently move away from the shore and enjoy the view.
• The paddle (stand-up paddle), perfect for slightly older children who like the challenge of standing on the board.
• The canoe and kayak, for paddling together and exploring the port's surroundings.
• For enthusiasts, the sailing and motorboat school offers courses supervised by instructors.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

You arrive at the water's edge, choose your vessel, and off you go. The spirit is relaxed, a bit like vacation: you rent for an hour or for the afternoon, return to rest on the shore, and start again. The center also has a nautical equipment shop on site. Good to know: an ID is required for any rental, and pets are not allowed on the boats.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 6 years for the pedalo or canoe with family; the paddle is better suited for older children who are comfortable in the water. A child who cannot swim must always be under close supervision, life jacket required.
• Duration: expect from one hour to half a day depending on your desire.
• Reservation: schedules and prices vary by season; the simplest way is to check directly on the official website or by phone before coming.
• Stroller accessibility: access is at the edge of the lake, at the level of the Vieux-Port; fairly flat terrain but a port area, keep an eye on the little ones near the water.
• Transport: by train, CFF station of Versoix a few minutes away; by bus, TPG lines serving Versoix; by car, parking near the port (limited spaces in high season).
• What to bring: swimsuit, towel, cap, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. The life jacket is provided for rentals.
• Ideal season: from spring to autumn, in dry weather and calm lake. The activity makes no sense in winter.

Parents' tips

• Come in the morning or early afternoon: the water is often calmer and there are fewer people.
• Check the weather and wind before leaving; a choppy Lake Geneva is not ideal with young children.
• Start with the pedalo to build the children's confidence, then switch to paddle or canoe another time.
• Bring snacks: a picnic break on the shore extends the outing pleasantly.

Useful information

• Address: Chemin du Vieux-Port 20, 1290 Versoix (Geneva)
• Official website: https://www.moby-dick.ch
• Hours: variable by season, see the official website
• Access: CFF train and TPG bus from Versoix nearby; parking at the port

Why we recommend it

Because it’s one of the simplest and most joyful ways to enjoy Lake Geneva as a family. No need to be an experienced sailor: you rent, have fun, and return with cheeks rosy from the sun. And for passionate children, the sailing school opens the door to a true passion.

In a nutshell

Rental of paddles, canoes, kayaks, and pedalos, and sailing school by Lake Geneva, in Versoix: an ideal nature and outdoor outing for the beautiful season, to taste the pleasures of water with family.