The year is coming to an end, but a 140-year-old organisation deserves to be mentioned in 2025. The Société Nautique de Neuchâtel (SNN) was founded in 1885. The SNN was a club for various water sports, especially rowing, shallop outings, and sailing. Today, it is only a rowing club, but the name has remained unchanged. The word “Avrion” (rowing) appears only on the website.

Francis Ballet, Vice-President of the SNN, on 21 September 2025. Photo: Charlotte Donzallaz 

Shortly after the founding of the SNN, the Swiss Rowing Federation “Swiss Rowing” was established in 1896. The SNN and four other rowing clubs from western Switzerland immediately joined this federation.

The numerous regattas in Switzerland and the competition venue at Rotsee near Zurich now enjoy an excellent reputation. In 2026, the Swiss Spectator will publish an article about rowing in Switzerland and the Swiss Rowing Federation.

Let us return to the SNN. Until the Second World War (1939–1945), touring rowing with large boats was the main activity. The excursions led across Lake Neuchâtel to the lakes of Bienne/Biel and Morat/Murten via the Broye and Thielle canals or to other places and rowing clubs around Lake Neuchâtel. In addition, there were and still are many visits to rowing clubs in Switzerland and abroad.

After 1945, competitive rowing and rowing in single sculls or other small boats became increasingly popular. The SNN began a collaboration with the University of Neuchâtel. In the following decades, the club counted several internationally renowned competitive rowers, including Olympic, European, and World Championship medal winners.

Rowing on Lake Neuchâtel is a privilege, not only because of the view of the Alps, the three Bernese peaks (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau), and sometimes even Mont Blanc, but also because of the clarity of the water, the view of the Jura, the Laténium, the vineyards, and the many beautiful villages and small towns. The SNN is also a member of the Association Romande d’Aviron (ARA).

(Source and further information: Société Nautique de Neuchâtel)

Photo: Charlotte Donzallaz