Over a three-month pilot, waterborne travel in the Moscow region saw residents and visitors together logging more than 17,600 trips, according to the regional Ministry of Transport’s press service. The figures illuminate how river and canal routes are evolving mobility, delivering convenient connections for daily commutes and weekend explorations alike.
Among the regional services, the route ending in Lytkarino recorded the strongest turnout, with roughly 10,400 travelers. This performance marks a 2.5 percent rise from the previous year, signaling growing confidence in boating as a viable travel option. In Kolomna, passenger numbers reached about 2,300, while Serpukhov registered around 4,800 riders on its scheduled service.
In Lytkarino, the Swift passenger boat operates as a short, direct link between the Lytkarino pier and the village of Andreevskoye in the Leninsky district. The route spans 800 meters and takes about five minutes, with operations planned through November 20 to provide a quick, scenic cross-borough option.
Kolomna’s line uses the motor ship Moskva-108, running from Bochmanovo pier to Prityk pier. Covering 24 kilometers, the journey lasts roughly one and a half hours, offering travelers a longer surface experience to appreciate the region from the water. In Serpukhov, the Zusha motor ship traverses the 4-kilometer stretch from Serpukhov pier to Sadi pier in about 40 minutes, delivering a compact, efficient option for short river hops. Both services are scheduled to operate until September 30.
Ticketing options on these routes include cash, debit cards, and Strelka transport cards. A notable update this year is a reduced processing fee for debit card payments, making card transactions more economical than cash in most cases.
At the government level, regional Governor Andrey Vorobyov highlighted a commitment to shaping the transport sector with direct input from residents. He noted that transportation topics resonate with people and that public feedback is essential to planning and execution.
To support this approach, officials announced an overarching program aimed at improving passenger comfort and reliability. Initiatives include repairing bus stops, refurbishing buses, and reorganizing resource allocation to meet growing demand. The aim is to create a more convenient, user-friendly network that reflects the real needs and wishes of the community as these issues are explored and evaluated. The emphasis remains on listening to residents and incorporating their perspectives into ongoing improvements.
In discussions with regional stakeholders, authorities stressed that the water-based transport program is designed to enhance everyday life by expanding reliable water access, ensuring safety standards, and maintaining affordability for households across the Moscow region. The combined effect of these efforts is intended to complement road and rail options, broaden mobility, and support regional development goals while keeping residents at the center of decision making.
Officials also emphasized the adaptability of the water routes to seasonal changes and shifting demand patterns, underscoring the importance of data-driven adjustments to timetables, vessel assignments, and maintenance cycles. The result should be a more resilient and responsive network capable of scaling with population shifts and tourism fluctuations.
As the program advances, the public can expect ongoing updates on service levels, route coverage, and accessibility improvements, all grounded in resident feedback and transparent reporting from regional authorities. The overarching message remains clear: mobility options should be practical, affordable, and aligned with the everyday experiences of people who rely on them.