Frequently asked questions
Everything visitors ask us before boarding: booking, times, getting here, children, groups, weather and life on board.
How do I reach the Vedettes de Besançon pier by public transport?
The pier is at Pont de la République, on the tramway side, in Besançon. Tram lines 1 and 2 stop at République, right next to the pier, and buses L5, 20, 21 and 22 serve the Centre Saint-Pierre stop, near the sightseeing bus departure point.
Where can I park for the cruise or the bus tour in Besançon?
The Cusenier, Saint-Paul and Beaux-Arts car parks are a few minutes' walk from the pier at Pont de la République and from the bus stop at Centre Saint-Pierre. Allow a little extra time in high season.
Is there a deal for visitors arriving by TER regional train?
Yes. Thanks to a partnership with SNCF TER Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, you get one ticket free for each ticket purchased, on presentation of a valid TER ticket to Besançon.
Do I need to book in advance?
It is strongly advised. The cruise, the bus and the pass are sold online and on site, but places are limited: booking online is the only way to be sure of your preferred departure time, especially in high season.
Can I cancel my ticket and get a refund?
No, tickets are non-refundable, and we prefer to say so plainly. However, if a departure is cancelled because too few passengers are booked, your ticket remains valid for any other departure of the season. If something unexpected happens, call +33 6 64 48 66 80 and the team will do its best.
Does the cruise still run if it rains?
Le Battant has an indoor cabin that is heated and air-conditioned, so the trip stays comfortable in rain or heat. If you are unsure about conditions on the day, call +33 6 64 48 66 80.
What are the fares for children?
On the guided cruise, a reduced fare applies up to and including age 16. On the panoramic bus, the child fare covers ages 4 to 16 and toddlers on a lap ride free. On meal cruises, a children's menu at 35 € is available for under 12s.
Are pets allowed on board?
Yes, dogs on a lead are welcome aboard both the boat and the bus, at no extra charge. Only the meal cruises cannot accommodate them.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The boat itself gladly welcomes passengers with reduced mobility. It is the access to the pier, via stairs on land we do not own, that is not wheelchair accessible. Call us on +33 6 64 48 66 80 and we will work out the best solution together.
What time of year do the cruise and the bus operate?
In season, the guided cruise offers several departures a day in season (10:00, 11:15, 14:15, 15:30, 16:45). The convertible bus runs from May to September, between 10:00 and 18:00. Groups of 20 to 100 people are welcomed on the boat all year round, seven days a week.
How early should I arrive before departure?
Arrive about 10 minutes before your cruise departure time at the Pont de la République pier. That leaves enough time to board without rushing.
Do I need to print my tickets?
No. E-tickets shown on a phone screen are accepted at boarding.
Are the tours available in English or other languages?
The live commentary is in French. Written translations in English, German, Italian and Spanish are available on board, just ask when boarding.
How many passengers can the boat carry?
Le Battant carries up to 100 passengers. It is heated and air-conditioned, fitted with a sound system and light displays, and has a rooftop panoramic terrace.
Who runs Vedettes de Besançon?
It is a family business: Aziz, the captain, has been sailing the Doubs since 1990, Carole took over the boat in 2008 and their son William works alongside them. The company holds a 4.7 out of 5 Google rating from 424 reviews.
How many people count as a group?
Group rates apply from 20 people, up to 100. Groups are welcome all year round, and a quote is sent within 48 hours for requests involving meals or a full day programme.
How can I contact Vedettes de Besançon?
By phone on +33 6 64 48 66 80. The pier is at Pont de la République, on the tramway side, 25000 Besançon, France.
What else is there to do in Besançon around the cruise?
The Vauban Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, overlooks the loop of the Doubs, and the Battant district is well worth a stroll. The panoramic convertible bus covers the main sights in 45 minutes, and day packages combine the cruise with visits for groups.
Is my ticket tied to a specific date and time?
You book a specific departure and are asked to arrive 10 minutes early. If your departure is cancelled because too few passengers are booked, your ticket remains valid for any other departure of the season. For any other situation, call +33 6 64 48 66 80.
Can I give a cruise as a gift?
Yes, a gift voucher valid for 1 year and sent by email will soon be available again, as the service is currently being reactivated. In the meantime, call +33 6 64 48 66 80 to arrange your gift.
Do children under 4 need a ticket?
No. The cruise and the bus are free for children under 4, and no ticket is needed: simply bring them along at boarding.