©Department of Lot-et-Garonne
The Fumel ferry, officially put into service on June 13, will allow boats to cross the Fumel hydroelectric dam. This equipment was designed to lift boats and transport them over a distance of 300 meters, before returning them to the water downstream of the dam, six meters lower. This technical feat was praised by many spectators, including Sophie Borderie, president of the Departmental Council of Lot-et-Garonne, her Lot counterpart, Serge Rigal.
Since the construction of the dam after the Second World War, navigation on the Lot had been hampered. Thanks to this ferry, boats can now navigate a 130-kilometer route, linking Aiguillon to Luzech. Sophie Borderie underlined the historical importance of this achievement: “We are experiencing an important moment, opening a new chapter in the history of navigability on the Lot. »
Daniel Borie, one of the key players in the project, also expressed his satisfaction: “The ferry marks the start of a new era for tourism and the economy of our region. » It notably highlighted the economic prospects linked to this infrastructure, in particular the creation of 10,000 m² of spaces capable of hosting economic activities linked to tourism and navigation, as well as the possible construction of a dry port for maintenance and wintering of boats.
Economic and tourist benefits
The economic impact of this new installation is expected from 2025, with the establishment of boat rental, repair and wintering services in Montayral. The mayor of the municipality concerned, Jean-François Ségala, already sees the potential benefits for his municipality and hopes that the ferry will attract many tourists. Sophie Borderie recalled that boaters not only sail, but also participate in the local economy by visiting castles, restaurants and local shops. The Fumel and Puy-l’Évêque barges will thus be able to offer new circuits including transhipment, offering an enriched experience to tourists.
A commitment to sustainable tourism
The Fumel ferry wants to be part of a sustainable tourism approach, promoting electrical energy and respecting the environment. This initiative meets the Department’s objectives of promoting respectful and sustainable uses of its natural resources. Sophie Borderie concluded: “Water is an asset for our department, and it is essential to protect it for the future, particularly for agriculture. » With this inauguration, Lot-et-Garonne opens a new page in its river history, marked by innovation and the valorization of its natural resources. Pleasure boats are expected in the coming weeks, once the last rocky obstacles have been cleared downstream of the dam. The Fumel ferry promises to transform the Lot valley into an essential destination for lovers of navigation and river tourism.
