The Privateers – Geneva

An Escape on the Lake, in the Heart of Geneva

Les Corsaires is the must-visit address to step onto Lake Geneva without much organization. Located on the Gustave-Ador quay, on the Eaux-Vives side, the dock offers pedal boat rentals, small motorboats, and sailboats, as well as a sailing school. For a family outing, the pedal boat remains a safe bet: no license, no stress, just the pleasure of pedaling together in front of the Jet d'eau.

What Your Children Will Discover

Seen from the water, Geneva completely changes its face. Children love to get close to the Jet d'eau, feel the spray when the wind blows the plume, and spot the swans, seagulls, and the large CGN boats passing by. On board a pedal boat, everyone can take turns pedaling, search the turquoise bottom near the shore, and play little captain. It's an outing that combines gentle adventure and fresh air, without ever straying far from the shore.

What to Do There and the Atmosphere

The atmosphere is relaxed and summery, very "by the lake." You arrive at the dock, choose your vessel for half an hour or an hour, put on life jackets, and off you go. Pedal boats are easy to maneuver and stay in the area close to the shore, ideal with children. For more experienced families, there are also small electric motorboats and sailboats, and the sailing school for those who want to learn. All around, the Eaux-Vives quays invite you to extend the day with an ice cream or a picnic in the park.

Before You Go

• Recommended age: from about 6 years old to enjoy a family pedal boat ride; younger children can board with an adult.
• Duration: expect 30 minutes to 1 hour on the water, adjustable according to the children's desires.
• Reservation: for the pedal boat, you usually go directly to the dock; for sailboats, motorboats, and sailing lessons, it's better to contact Les Corsaires in advance.
• Stroller accessibility: the quays are flat and easy to access on foot; boarding is from the dock.
• Transport: by TPG bus, stop near Eaux-Vives / Vollandes just a stone's throw away; limited paid parking along the quays, prefer public transport in summer.
• To bring: sunscreen, cap, water, and a change of clothes, as you might get splashed.
• Ideal season: from spring to autumn, in good weather; the activity depends on the weather and the lake.

Parents' Tips

• Aim for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and the sun at its zenith.
• Check the weather and the state of the lake before leaving: in case of wind or storm, it's better to postpone.
• Dress the children in quick-drying clothes, as their feet often end up wet.
• Combine the outing with some time at the Eaux-Vives park or an ice cream on the quay for a true half-day experience.

Useful Information

• Address: Quai Gustave-Ador 33, 1207 Geneva
• Official website: lescorsaires.ch
• Hours: variable depending on the season and weather, see the official website
• Access: TPG bus to Eaux-Vives (Vollandes stop nearby); limited parking along the quays

Why We Recommend It

Because it only takes a few minutes to go from the quay to the water and experience Geneva differently. It's simple, refreshing, and family-friendly: a memorable outdoor activity right in front of the Jet d'eau, without equipment or long preparation.

In Two Words

A pedal boat or boat ride on Lake Geneva, right in the heart of Geneva, perfect for a family outing on beautiful days.