Vilnius’ first electric boats have carried nearly 12,000 passengers since services began on the River Neris in late July, city transport operator JUDU has said.
Two vessels – Rytas and Lasisa – entered service this summer, with average daily ridership reaching around 244 on weekdays and more than 300 at weekends, when occupancy reached about 80%.
JUDU said demand had “exceeded expectations”, particularly in the early days when queues were unexpectedly large.
The service has not been without challenges. In late summer, sudden rises in water levels brought down trees and branches, forcing temporary suspensions while debris was cleared. On one trip, a submerged obstacle damaged a boat’s propeller and shaft, though repairs were carried out promptly.
The boats have since been upgraded with 3D sonar systems to improve navigation and safety.
Sailing will continue until the end of October, in line with the inland waterways schedule. Two further vessels – Gelezinis Vilkas and Smilga – are due to arrive in Vilnius later this year, with plans to expand routes and add more stops in 2026.
Each boat costs EUR 450,000. The city purchased four in total under a EUR 1.85 million contract with a Latvian shipbuilder.
Tickets cost EUR 3 (EUR 4 if bought on board). Pupils, students, residents over 80 and others covered by exemptions receive an 80% discount, paying just EUR 0.60.
Single tickets are valid for 90 minutes. After completing their boat journey, passengers can use the remaining time to travel by bus or trolleybus. (LRT)