Rhine Ferries and Rhine Swimming

Cross the Rhine in Basel on one of the city’s historic, engineless ferries, a charming and sustainable alternative to the bridges. These traditional wooden vessels, locally known as Fähri, rely entirely on the river’s current for propulsion, guided by a steel cable system rather than motors. This unique mode of transport offers a serene and eco-friendly way to travel between the Grossbasel and Kleinbasel districts, taking only a few minutes to complete the crossing. There are four of them, each with its own name: the Wilde Maa at St. Alban, the Leu below the Münster, the Vogel Gryff at Klingental and the Ueli at St. Johann.

The experience is both practical and visually striking, providing panoramic views of Basel’s historic waterfront, including landmarks like the Münster. To board, simply look for the pier; if the ferry is on the opposite bank, ring the bell to signal the operator. The small fare is paid directly to the ferryman on board, and ordinary public transport passes are not valid.

In summer the Rhine itself becomes Basel's favourite swimming pool. Locals walk upstream along the Kleinbasel bank, pack their clothes into a waterproof bag called a Wickelfisch, slip into the water and let the current carry them back downstream, climbing out at the steps along the riverbank. The season usually runs from June to August, and the river is busy with shipping and flows fast, so newcomers should stay close to the Kleinbasel bank, avoid the bridge piers and follow local safety advice. Each August the city also holds an organised Rhine swim.