PRIVATE FINE DINING. THREE LAKES. SWITZERLAND
Your private fine dining experience on Lake Biel

Built in Neuchâtel in 1952, Romandie I began life as a passenger boat before being transformed into a distinctive saloon boat. Her historic lines have been preserved. Her interior was reimagined by atelier oï, the internationally recognised design studio based in La Neuveville.
 

Fine woods, considered lighting and furniture designed specifically for the boat give the saloon its character. The adaptable interior allows the table, bar and seating areas to serve different purposes as your occasion unfolds.
 

Since 2022, Romandie I has sailed on fully electric power, almost silently and with no local emissions from propulsion. The sound of the water, the passing landscape and your conversations come to the fore. You feel that quiet both at the table and out on deck.

Guests often remember the personal atmosphere on board, the quality of the cooking and hospitality that feels both warm and assured. Captain and host Patrik Bucher, the Maître de Cabine and the resident chef work closely together. From the moment you arrive, you feel welcome.
 

A first drink on deck, a few appetisers, then dinner around one shared table. Between courses, vineyards drift past, a conversation continues or you step outside for a moment. The pace leaves room for what you came to share.
 

Bring family or friends together for a birthday, an anniversary or another occasion that matters. With a boat reserved for your group, one shared table and an attentive team, you can spend your time enjoying your guests’ company.
 

Host clients, partners or your leadership team in a setting reserved entirely for your group. The meal gives the occasion its rhythm, while the quiet on board allows conversation to flow. A personal invitation, with the discretion of a private boat.

Your time aboard Gourmetschiff extends beyond the Chef’s Table. An aperitif on the open deck, the next courses around the dining table, a conversation at the bar or a later drink at the stern: as the meal unfolds, you move naturally between the spaces on board.
 

Romandie I glides almost silently across the water. The boat is yours alone, with no other dining parties on board. Just your group, the boat and the slowly changing landscape. A peaceful setting in which the food, conversation and pleasure of being together have room to unfold.
 

From Biel/Bienne, the cruise follows vineyards and wine-growing villages towards St Peter’s Island, La Neuveville and Erlach. Depending on the duration of your experience, it may continue through the Zihl Canal to Lake Neuchâtel.

Resident chef Manuel Hotz, awarded 15 GaultMillau points, shapes the cuisine at Gourmetschiff. His menu follows the seasons and the produce available from his suppliers, many of whom he knows personally. Typically served over six courses, with additional small creations between them, the menu brings each ingredient’s flavour into focus.
 

The open kitchen is just a few steps from the Chef’s Table. Watch a dish take shape, speak with the chef or simply enjoy the meal with your guests.
 

Wine pairing is part of the experience. Established names sit alongside discoveries from Lake Biel and further afield. Manuel selects the wines to complement each course and introduces them personally at the table.
 

Lake Biel is the main setting for your Gourmetschiff experience. Departing from Biel/Bienne, the cruise follows the vineyards and villages of Twann and Ligerz towards St Peter’s Island, La Neuveville or Erlach.
 

Depending on the agreed route and duration, you may continue through the Zihl Canal to Lake Neuchâtel. A departure from Lake Murten or another suitable landing stage in the Three Lakes region can also be considered.
 

Your route, boarding point and timings are agreed with you. Allow approximately four and a half to five and a half hours for the dining experience.
 

From your first conversation, Patrik Bucher is your personal point of contact. He helps you plan the occasion, choose the route and explore the possibilities on board. On the day, he welcomes you as captain and host of Gourmetschiff.
 

Together with the Maître de Cabine and Manuel Hotz, he ensures that the cruise, cooking and service flow naturally together. The arrangements stay in the background, leaving you free to focus on your guests.
 

On request, we can also coordinate transfers, a stop ashore or other arrangements on land with selected partners. Each detail is considered as part of your occasion.