European river cruise lines are continuing to experience disruptions due to low water levels, impacting passenger itineraries on rivers such as the Danube and Rhine. Although the summer heatwave has ended, a lack of rain means water levels have not recovered, making it difficult for cruise ships to dock.
Riviera Travel recently cancelled three Danube departures in October and revised nine Rhine routes. For example, some Rhine Gorge itineraries were redesigned to visit destinations on the Moselle, including Cochem, Bernkastel, Trier, and Koblenz, instead of further south to places like Rüdesheim and Strasbourg.
Other cruise lines, including Tui River Cruises, Uniworld, Viking, Travelmarvel, and AmaWaterways, are also affected. Tui River Cruises passengers reportedly travelled by coach and stayed in hotels due to low water levels on the Danube last month. Cruise operators are responding with measures such as ship swaps, starting cruises at alternative ports, or arranging hotel stays and coach transfers for passengers.
Viking, for instance, strategically deploys sister ships to allow for transfers across affected river sections. Uniworld has stated its teams work with local authorities and partners to adapt itineraries or provide alternative travel arrangements. Sailings in France, Italy, and Portugal are reported to be operating as scheduled.