Vedettes de Paris: an ecological turning point for river tourism
Since 1976, Vedettes de Paris has been a benchmark for river tourism on the Seine. In 2024, the company took a decisive step forward by pioneering the electrification of tourist boats, putting its first three 100% electric vessels into service. One year on from this historic transformation, Vedettes de Paris celebrates a breakthrough that redefines industry standards while consolidating its commitment to the environment.
A necessary ecological transition
Vedettes de Paris’ ecological awareness was accelerated in 2021 when it took part in the Convention des Entreprises pour le Climat (CEC). At that time, the company realized that 50% of its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions came from the diesel consumption of its boats, i.e. 500,000 liters per year. Faced with this reality, General Manager Marie Bozzoni and Deputy General Manager Vincent Delteil made a bold decision: to convert 80% of the fleet to electric power by mid-2025.
As early as February 2024, the first 100% electric boat, the Paris Trocadéro, was launched, followed in May by the Paris Montparnasse and, in the summer, a third electrified vessel just before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. A successful gamble, since three of the fleet’s five boats now sail without any polluting emissions.
Tangible environmental benefits
The switch to electric power has had a direct and measurable impact on reducing polluting emissions. According to the company’s estimates, the Paris Trocadéro has avoided 460 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year, or the equivalent of 59.5 circumnavigations of the Earth in a thermal car. With three electrified boats, the company anticipates a total reduction of 1,110 tonnes of GHG emissions by the end of 2025, equivalent to 143 circumnavigations of the globe.
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, these boats eliminate the noise and vibrations associated with combustion engines. The result: silent, smooth, odorless cruising, offering a totally rethought experience for passengers.
A new browsing experience
Every year, over 800,000 passengers board the Vedettes de Paris to (re)discover the capital from the Seine. With these new electric boats, cruises are more immersive and comfortable.
The 250-passenger ships glide along the water in soothing silence, transforming the ride into an even more contemplative experience. The absence of noise also benefits the tour guides, who have been accompanying the cruises since 2020. Their voices are now perfectly audible, enhancing interaction with the public and enriching the discovery of Parisian monuments.
A company that shines and inspires
Vedettes de Paris ‘ commitment to the environment has aroused growing interest among visitors and tourism influencers, as well as those involved in transport and the environment.
This ambition has been recognized by institutions, notably with thefour-year extension of the right of occupancy at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, granted by HAROPA Ports de Paris as part of a special agreement on energy transition. The company was also able to renew the confidence of its investors, notably Ouest Croissance, BPI and a banking pool led by LCL.
With this successful electrification, Vedettes de Paris becomes an inspiring model for the tourism sector, proving that a transition to more sustainable practices is not only possible, but beneficial at every level.
“Eco l’Eau”: a new responsible offer
In addition to electrifying its boats, Vedettes de Paris has also rethought its commercial offering, integrating an educational and responsible dimension.
With the “Eco l’Eau” experience, the company is offering an innovative privatization program, combining a 100% electric cruise, a fun quiz on climate change and a cocktail signed by Cirette Traiteur, an eco-responsible partner. A way of raising public awareness while offering a unique and enriching experience.
A global environmental approach
Electrifying its boats is just one step in Vedettes de Paris‘ sustainable development strategy. The company is currently preparing its second CSR report, which will detail all its environmental actions.
From now on, all the company’s decisions are taken in line with its ecological commitments: rigorous selection of suppliers, partnerships with committed players and continuous reflection on energy optimization. In this way, Vedettes de Paris demonstrates that it is possible to combine profitability with respect for the planet.
River tourism looks to the future
With this successful transition, Vedettes de Paris is paving the way for a new, more environmentally-friendly model of river tourism. By leveraging innovative, sustainable technologies, the company is demonstrating that a tourism business can reduce its carbon footprint while enhancing the visitor experience.
At a time when climate issues are becoming ever more pressing, Vedettes de Paris is proving that it is possible to take concrete action, without compromising on service quality. The stated objective is ambitious: to repower 80% of the fleet with zero emissions by mid-2025.
If this dynamic continues, there’s no doubt that other river tourism players will follow suit, for a greener Paris and more responsible tourism.
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