The oldest motor vessel on Lake Lucerne dates from 1929 and is now being updated with the latest technology, making it fit for the future.
This project is just one part of the SGV Group's broader strategy to develop a clean and green fleet, thus focusing on sustainability and environmental protection. A first major milestone therefore was the relaunch of the electrified vessel Rütli in late spring.
| 25.08.2023 | The MS Rütli was refueled for the last time. |
| 29.09.2023 | Removal of the old fuel tank |
| 03.10.2023 | Removal of the old diesel engine |
| 17.10.2023 | Transfer to the dry dock of the Lucerne shipyard |
| 18.10.2023 | Start of the main work |
| 14.02.2024 | Return to the lake |
| 22.02.2024 | Installation of the new electric propulsion system |
| 21.03.2024 | First trial |
| 19.04.2024 | Official launch by Shiptec |
| 25.05.2024 | First public cruise |
By converting the historic vessel MS Rütli from diesel propulsion to electric drive during winter 2023/24, the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV AG) is investing over 1 million CHF into clean and green mobility. The project will help reduce carbon emissions and contribute to sustainability in this sensitive Alpine environment. The works are being completed at the Lucerne shipyard, which is operated by SGV's own subsidiary Shiptec AG.
Thanks to the conversion of MS Rütli to electric drive, it will be possible to save roughly 2.5 million liters of diesel fuel annually. MS Rütli was purposefully chosen as the fleet's electric prototype, as it is particularly light and agile by original design. Its traditional area of deployment in the Bay of Lucerne, with short sightseeing cruises and compact range, makes it well suited for conversion to electric operation with powerful batteries. This refit is also highly symbolic and likely to launch a coming trend for other small passenger vessels on Swiss lakes or inland rivers.
Exciting fact: Before electrification, MS Rütli consumed an average of around 7,900 liters of diesel per year. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of around 21 tons. During a day of operation as a cruise and city boat (3 round trips of 75 minutes each), around 120-130 kWh are now required.
Enjoy a cruise on the eMS Rütli
As of 25 May 2024 the public is invited to experience the updated and attractively revamped electric vessel Rütli with a cruise over the clear waters of Lake Lucerne. The relaunched Rütli will therefore become a flagship of sustainable tourism and low-impact travel. Even with its modern electric drive, Rütli will retain its historic charm and 1920s nostalgia. During the summer months, the short and refreshing sightseeing cruises that Rütli operates in the Bay of Lucerne are ideal for individual travelers or small groups.
Additionally, the ship can also be chartered for pleasant private cruises in the late afternoon or early evening for Happy Hour. Enjoy an aperitif on Lake Lucerne with your family, friends or colleagues.
| Ship name | Electric motor ship Rütli (short form: eMS Rütli) |
|---|---|
| Type of ship | Electric motor ship |
| Passenger capacity | 120 persons |
| Crew | 2 persons |
| Owned by | Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees (SGV) AG |
| Builder | Sachsenberg brothers, Roßlau an der Elbe & SGV shipyard, Lucerne |
| Virgin voyage | 13 May 1929 |
| Client Electrification | Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees (SGV) AG A subsidiary of SGV Holding AG |
| Engineering and construction | Shiptec AG, Lucerne ¦ A subsidiary of SGV Holding AG |
| Drive system | Fully electric drive and energy management system from Shiptec |
| Electric power | 180 KW / 245PS |
| Battery capacity | 260 kWh (comparison battery capacity electric car: 50 - 100 kWh) |
| Charging concept | Overnight charging, 1 day autonomy |
| Speed | max. 20 km/h |
| Ship weight | 28.6 tons |
| Length over all | 22.60 m |
| Width over all | 5.00 m |
| Deck area according to BAV | approx. 71.3m2 |
| Cost of conversion | 1.2 million CHF |
If more people are traveling than the flat rate offered, the following surcharge will be charged: Each additional person: CHF 18.00 for the first hour + CHF 3.00 for each additional hour.
| 1 hour |
Sun-Wed/ Thu-Sat |
CHF 1'100.00 CHF 1'200.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 2 hour |
Sun-Wed/ Thu-Sat |
CHF 1'650.00 CHF 1'800.00 |
| 3 hour |
Sun-Wed/ Thu-Sat |
CHF 2'200.00 CHF 2'400.00 |
| 4 hour |
Sun-Wed/ Thu-Sat |
CHF 2'750.00 CHF 3'000.00 |
| Every additional hour from 4 hours |
Sun-Wed/ Thu-Sat |
CHF 600.00 CHF 650.00 |
Additional information as PDF
Media contact
Werner Lüönd
Head of Marketing & Sales Shipping | Member of the Executive Board
Send an e-mail
