PalenQ

This summer sees the launch of large blue and green commuter catamarans - designed not for tourists but Parisian commuters, in another attempt to alleviate the city's terrible traffic jams and smog.

Vogueo, as the commuter boat system is called, starts up in June, 2009 and costs 3 euros - with five stops between Maisons-Alfort and Paris Austerlitz train station. Envisioned are extending the stops farther within a year or two to between Val de Marne, on the other end of the Seine.

Though for commuters i can't wait to take for 3 euros this boat trip from Austerlitz to Maisons-Alfort, passing by many landmarks.

Vogueo is part of Paris' plan to reduce car traffic by 40% by 2020 - the Velib' bike program is a part and is hugely successful by all accounts.

Boats will move about 2 or three times an hour.

PatrickLondon

I think they've had some service this summer as well, but I never got round to trying it out (not quite going to places visitors normally want to go to):
http://www.vogueo.fr/vogueo/index.jsp

You'll be pleased to know the traffic is "fluide"...

Palenque

I wonder if anyone has ridden these boats or even if they are still in operation? Would a Navigo Pass be valid - if so i may just ride one for the heck of it.

any experiences?

merci

PatrickLondon

No experience, but they say it's on 365 days a year and passes on Navigo are valid:

http://www.vogueo.fr/vogueo/tarifs_e...res/index.html

GeoffHamer

I did a trip on them in August 2008. The boats are small, carrying up to 75 passengers (with some having to stand). They're well laid-out with large windows and some open deck space. They go beyond the route of the sightseeing boats and the scenery is partly industrial. The terminus at Maisons Alfort is actually on the river Marne. I went ashore there, had a drink in a café, then got another boat back.

Palenque

thanks PatL and Geoff - i note the boats only cost 3 euros so even without a Navigo Pass i guess i'll hop them - i am actually drawn to more industrial areas along the Seine so like Geoff would get off and head for a cafe.