Aerial view of a marina packed with white sailboats and motorboats along a lakeside, green park area and buildings nearby

Boat Rental Services

Explore Lake Leman at your own pace during the championships.

Rental Options on Lake Leman

Thonon-les-Bains and the surrounding Haute-Savoie shoreline offer a variety of boat rental services, giving visitors access to the expansive waters of Lake Leman. Whether you are looking for a leisurely cruise, a sailing experience, or a motorboat for the day, local operators provide equipment suited to different levels of experience.

The lake's setting — framed by the Alps and the Jura mountains — makes it a remarkable place to spend time on the water. Rental outlets are concentrated near the marina and along the lakeside promenades, within easy reach of the championship venue at Base Nautique des Clerges.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Leman, the boat rental services available during the World Rowing Coastal Championships offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the same waters that host this world-class regatta. The lake's vast expanse, framed by the alpine peaks and the Jura mountains, provides a stunning backdrop for any excursion. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a first-time explorer, the rental options cater to a wide range of preferences, from gentle sailing vessels to motorized craft. Spending time on the water here allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the Haute-Savoie region while immersing yourself in the championship atmosphere that fills the lakeside village of Thonon-les-Bains.

For those attending the championships, renting a boat offers a distinctive perspective on the coastal rowing competition. From the water, you can observe the races from a vantage point that few spectators experience, watching the athletes navigate the waves and currents of Lake Leman with skill and determination. The lake itself is central to the event's identity, and being on its surface connects you directly to the spirit of the championship. Local operators provide well-maintained equipment and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing. This is a chance to blend the thrill of watching world-class athletes with the pleasure of exploring one of Europe's most beautiful lakes.

Beyond the racing schedule, a boat rental allows you to discover the cultural and natural treasures that surround Thonon-les-Bains. The shoreline is dotted with charming villages, secluded beaches, and scenic viewpoints that are best accessed from the water. You can set your own pace, stopping for a swim in the clear alpine waters or simply drifting while taking in the panoramic mountain views. The lake's calm conditions during certain times of day make it particularly inviting for leisurely cruises. This combination of sport, nature, and exploration captures the essence of the championship experience, where the love of rowing meets the joy of discovery on Lake Leman.

What to Expect

  • Motorboats and sailboats available for half-day or full-day hire
  • Pedal boats and small craft for casual outings close to shore
  • Equipment typically includes safety gear and basic instruction
  • Advance booking recommended during the championship period (October 12–15, 2017)

Rental terms, pricing, and availability vary by provider. Visitors were encouraged to contact rental operators directly for reservations during the event.

Five rowers in a rowing boat on choppy dark blue open water with a distant coastline visible on the horizon

On the Water in Thonon-les-Bains

Lake Leman is one of Europe's largest alpine lakes, and its French shoreline around Thonon-les-Bains offers calm waters ideal for boating. The Rives marina and nearby ports serve as hubs for water-based recreation throughout the year.

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