Danube River. Photo: Shutterstock A prolonged period of low rainfall in Europe continues to hamper river cruise operations, with low water levels on the Rhine and Danube limiting the ability of cruise ships to travel on their planned routes.
In some sections, sailing is not possible at all, and companies are forced to change routes and operate alternative transportation solutions.
The extent of the problem is particularly evident in the measurement data in Germany.
At the Kaub monitoring station, which is considered a central measurement point on the Rhine, a level of only about 20 cm was measured, compared to 77 cm in a previous measurement. In Cologne, about 75 cm were measured, compared to 139 cm in the past. Also on the Danube, at the Pfelling station, about 245 cm were measured, below the normal level of about 290 cm.
The data does not represent the actual depth of water beneath the ship, but rather the height of the river level relative to the zero point of the measuring station.
Scenic Group, which operates the Scenic and Emerald Cruises brands, has issued an official warning that sections of the Danube, including between Vienna and Budapest, are closed to navigation.
There are also restrictions on the Rhine and Main, including in the area between Cologne and Koblenz. The company estimates that no significant improvement in navigation conditions is expected in the next two weeks, due to the lack of precipitation in the forecast.
Scenic is preparing to operate alternative ships, change sailing routes, hotel accommodations and additional bus transfers, as necessary. Passengers whose sailings may be affected are receiving advance updates.