Schiller, Historic paddle steamer in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Schiller is a paddle steamer on Lake Lucerne that stretches 63 meters and maintains classic steamship architecture with traditional wooden decks. The large paddlewheels mounted on both sides remain the distinctive feature and continue to power the vessel through the water.
Schiller was built during the era when paddle steamers served as the primary transport connecting regions across Swiss lakes. The vessel preserves its original mechanical systems and operates on the same principles as when it first entered service.
The vessel bears the name of a German poet, reflecting cultural ties to European intellectual traditions. Passengers on deck experience a connection to an era when such steamers shaped social life on the water.
The vessel welcomes passengers for lake excursions from spring through autumn, with multiple daily departures from the main dock along the waterfront. Visitors should take advantage of open-deck seating to enjoy the lake views and bring a warm layer, as it becomes cool on the water.
The vessel still operates using its original steam engines and runs on the same procedures as it did decades ago during each journey. This technical heritage makes it a living example of 19th century engineering that visitors can watch in action on every voyage.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
