The 2026 SNL Season: Sustainability and the Federal Concession Decision

Context

TL;DR

• SNL focuses on electrifying fleet for 2026 season
• New fast boat service for cross-border commuters
• Federal concession renewal crucial for SNL operations
• SNL expands services to Lake Maggiore in 2026

Key facts

• Project Name: Venti35 aims to electrify all SNL vessels
• Service Launch: Fast boat service between Lugano and Porlezza starts in 2026
• Service Time: 15-20 minutes travel time between Lugano and Porlezza
• Concession Expiry: Current federal concession expires in 2026
• New Route: Twice-weekly connection between Locarno and Cannobio from 2026
• EDiPo Project: EDiPo project to launch by end of 2026 for greener navigation
• Mayor's Vision: Lugano Mayor Michele Foletti envisions lake as natural highway
• Sustainability Goal: SNL committed to reducing environmental impact of activities

Spring is just around the corner, and the Lake Lugano Navigation Company (SNL) is ready to set sail for the 2026 season with a particular focus on environmental sustainability. The announcement was made by SNL's director, Simone Bianchi, who presented the novelties and projects for the new year.

SNL, which operates on Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore, has decided to focus on electrifying its fleet, an important step towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility. The "Venti35" project aims to electrify all SNL vessels, and the first results are already visible.

"We will conduct public transport tests," Bianchi stated. "In the early morning and at the end of working hours, we will make available a fully electrified fast boat that will allow passengers to reach Porlezza from Lugano in just 15-20 minutes. This service will be particularly useful for cross-border commuters who travel between the two locations daily. Sustainability is a crucial issue for us, and we are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our activities."

The EDiPo project, which will see the light by the end of 2026, is just the beginning of a journey towards greener navigation. SNL is working to electrify its entire fleet, a process that requires time and investment but is fundamental for the company's future and environmental protection.

"Lake Lugano can become a natural highway," said Michele Foletti, Mayor of Lugano. "Navigation on the lake can play an important role in mobility, especially for cross-border commuters and Lugano citizens. We have already started collaborating with SNL on the electrification of some vessels, and we are evaluating the next steps to make the fleet fully electric."

SNL is not only focused on Lake Lugano but also on Lake Maggiore. Starting in 2026, there will be a twice-weekly connection between Locarno and Cannobio, with an early morning run that will also reach the Brissago Islands an hour earlier. "Piedmont is a region rich in tourists, and the Brissago Islands are a very sought-after destination," explained Bianchi. "We want to facilitate access to this attraction and offer a more efficient service to visitors."

Operational details

The federal concession is crucial for SNL, as it guarantees the right to operate on Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore. The current license, which expires in 2026, was granted by the Swiss Confederation and allows SNL to offer public and tourist transport services on the lakes.

The renewal of the concession is a complex process that requires the approval of the Swiss federal authorities. SNL has submitted its application and is awaiting the final decision. Director Bianchi expressed confidence but also emphasized the importance of this step for the company's future.

"The concession is fundamental for our business," Bianchi stated. "Without it, we would not be able to offer our services and ensure mobility on the lake. We are optimistic, but we are aware that it is a long and complex process."

SNL has invested a lot in sustainability and fleet electrification, and the renewal of the concession is crucial to continuing on this path. The company has already started collaborating with Swiss and Italian authorities to ensure efficient and environmentally friendly public transport.

"We are working closely with the authorities to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions," Bianchi added. "Our goal is to offer a modern and cutting-edge public transport service that is accessible to all and respects the environment."

The federal concession is not the only aspect to consider. SNL must also comply with labor contracts and public transport regulations, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers. The company plays an important role in promoting sustainable mobility and reducing traffic on the roads, especially for cross-border commuters who travel between Switzerland and Italy daily.

"Our goal is to offer a sustainable and affordable alternative to cross-border commuters," Bianchi concluded. "We want our services to be accessible and contribute to improving the quality of life for people who commute between Lugano and Porlezza daily."

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Key points

The 2026 SNL season is excellent news for cross-border commuters and all those who use navigation services on Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore. The electrification of the fleet and the focus on sustainability are important steps towards more environmentally friendly mobility.

If you are a cross-border commuter or a resident of Ticino, you can take advantage of SNL's services for your daily commute. The salary calculator on Frontaliere Ticino can help you understand how much you can save by using public transport, especially if you are a commuter who crosses the border every day.

Remember that SNL also offers tourist services, so you can plan a boat trip on the lake to enjoy the beauty of Ticino and Piedmont.

To stay up to date with SNL's news and developments, visit their website or follow their social media channels. You can also subscribe to their newsletter to receive the latest updates directly to your inbox.

The 2026 SNL season is an opportunity to discover or rediscover the beauty of Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore and contribute to more sustainable mobility. Don't miss out on this opportunity and take advantage of SNL's services for your commute and leisure time.

Source: Ticinonews.ch, 1 day ago.

Official sources: Traffic data (FEDRO)