scenic river cruises water levels

European River Water Levels

One of the more common questions we get asked about when booking a European river cruise is, “Will high/low water levels affect my sailing?” Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy answer to assuage concerns about European river water levels when booking a cruise several months (or over a year) in advance. Changing weather conditions can impact sailings with as little as several hours of notice.

Let’s not mince words, though. Water levels can, and do, impact European river cruises every year. Overall, though, the number of sailings impacted each year is minor and fear of water level issues should never be a reason for you to not sail the wonderful rivers of Europe. The impact of high or low water often impacts certain sections of a river, not the entire length, so remedies are all about getting around the specific area(s) of concern.

Causes & Timing of Water Level Issues

Dealing with water level issues is a way of life for the cities and regions that rely on their rivers for everyday activities and commerce. Disruptions are typically only for short periods of time as specific weather events play out. Large snowfalls in the winter can create huge snowmelts in the spring. Prolonged, heavy rainfall can occur at any time of the year, raising water levels to the point where ships are unable to pass under bridges or safely dock at a desired port. Excessively long heat waves can dry things up and create the risk of running aground.

It's important to be aware that water levels are a natural phenomenon that can't always be predicted or controlled. While we can provide some guidelines on historic weather patterns, know that Mother Nature is fickle. There is plenty of proof that exceptions to historic patterns occur frequently. With that in mind, here are some general guidelines:

High water levels are typically more of an issue during the spring months, especially in regions where snowmelt from the mountains contributes to river flow. Heavy rainfall can also cause high water levels at other times of the year.

Low water levels are typically more of an issue during the summer and early autumn months. This is because decreased rainfall and increased evaporation can lead to reduced water levels in rivers.

During the transition periods between seasons, water levels can fluctuate as weather patterns change. For example, heavy rainfall in late autumn or early winter can cause temporary increases in water levels, while a prolonged period of dry weather in spring could lead to lower-than-average water levels.

Regional variations come into play, with the timing and severity of high and low water levels varying from one region to another.

Impact of Water Level Issues

​ So, what happens if there is high or low water issues on the river you are scheduled to sail on? Each cruise line monitors water levels closely, and has its own set of contingency plans to minimize disruptions and ensure passengers still have an enjoyable experience. Whatever their plan, you will not be asked to pay additional money – and if the disruption is large enough, some lines might even provide a future cruise credit or partial refund to make up for your disrupted sailing. Here are some examples of how cruise lines might address water level issues:

Adjusted itineraries that modify the start/end ports, the ports visited, or the timing of excursions.

Hotel stays and/or buses might be used for parts of your itinerary – or in rare instances, for the entire cruise itinerary.

For lines that have larger fleets, ship swaps could be used to address the problem. This is where ships sailing the same river, but in opposite directions both arrive at the impassable section and then crew and staff are transferred from one ship to the other, therefore bypassing the trouble spot and allowing them to sail the remaining itinerary.

In extreme cases, and as a last resort if the above options are not possible, cruise lines might be forced to cancel entire sailings.

Which Rivers & How to Monitor Water Levels

When comparing European river water levels across all itinerary options, the Rhine and Danube seem to suffer the most. The Seine, Rhône, and Saône might be in the next group of river itineraries impacted. The group with the least number of issues would probably be the Moselle, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, and Douro. But again, it can’t be stressed enough that water level issues can occur on any river, at any time.

There are numerous online resources that you can use to monitor the current water levels on specific rivers, though many may not be in English. Use your browser’s translation option to convert the website content. For German rivers, we have found the map on PEGELONLINE to be very useful. Markers on the map in green indicate normal water levels, blue indicate high water levels, and orange indicate low water levels. Consult your specific cruise itinerary and use the look up box (with the magnifying glass) to get the latest on your ports of call. Here are some common ports that you might look up:

Upper Rhine: Dusseldorf, Koln (Cologne), Bonn, Koblenz

Lower Rhine: Basel, Breisach, Speyer, Mannheim

Danube: Passau, Deggendorf, Regensburg, Vilshofen

Main: Mainz, Bamberg, Wertheim, Wurzburg

Moselle: Koblenz, Cochem, Trier UP, Wincheringen, Fremersdorf

Elbe: Pirna, Dresden, Meissen, Torgau, Wittenberg

While not quite as intuitive to use as the German website noted above, this French site provides a color coded map of current river conditions throughout France. You can drill down by region/territory to see specific station data.

Could Low Water Levels Ruin Your European River Cruise?

When Julia Slater signed up for an AmaWaterways cruise on the Danube last year, she was expecting a voyage from the historic German city of Nuremberg through southern Germany, Slovakia and Austria to Budapest, Hungary. But just days before the seven-night trip was set to begin, in late October, she got some troubling news. Low water on the river was forcing a change of plan.

"We were notified they were switching our embarkation from Nuremberg to Vilshofen, Germany," said the 50-year-old purchasing and compliance manager from Moorestown, New Jersey, who had booked the sailing with her husband and two other couples. "And we were told at that point that there was a really good chance the ship wouldn't be able to make it all the way to Budapest."

The Slaters and their friends weren't the only ones getting such notices. Historically low water levels on the Danube and the Rhine last year, caused by unusually warm and dry weather conditions across central Europe, disrupted hundreds of river cruise departures operated by AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways , Viking River Cruises and other lines.

In most cases, the disruptions were relatively minor, affecting just a day or two of the itinerary. But as frustrated passengers have recounted in great detail at online sites such as River Cruise Advisor , some voyages were significantly altered. Some cruisers found themselves being bused long distances to destinations on their itinerary that had suddenly become unreachable by ship. In some extreme cases, passengers were moved to hotels for part of their trips when their vessels could go no farther. A few voyages were canceled outright.

"It was extreme last year," said David Porter, president and CEO of Roaming Boomers Travel Services , a Scottsdale, Arizona-based travel agency that caters heavily to river cruisers. "It was just a long, ugly mess."

It's also the sort of thing that happens very infrequently.

Should you worry about low-water levels affecting your river cruise this year and beyond? Probably not as much as you think. Years like 2018 are extremely rare.

"The last time there was anything even close to this was 2003, and the last time before that was 100 years ago," said Pam Hoffee, managing director of Avalon Waterways.

In a typical year, just a handful of sailings in Europe are affected by low (or high) water, Hoffee told TPG . In some years, such as 2017, pretty much every voyage goes off without a hitch.

"The reality of river cruising is that it does rely on the right level of water, but in general the water levels are fine," she said.

Even during years marked by drastically low water on Europe's rivers, such as 2018, disruptions to itineraries aren't across the board. Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, estimates only about 80 of the line's 600 departures in Europe in 2018 were impacted. As Schreiner noted, only the Danube and the Rhine were affected by the warm and dry weather across central Europe, and not until the second half of the summer into the fall. Water levels on France's Seine and Rhone rivers, and on the Douro in Portugal, were generally fine.

As the Slaters experienced, the typical disruption didn't have a huge impact on the vacation experience. Instead of boarding their ship, the 162-passenger AmaSonata, in Nuremberg, the couple met it about 140 miles to the southeast in Vilshofen, an area just below a known choke point on the Danube that often becomes impassable during periods of low water. The change meant they missed touring Nuremberg completely. They also had to be bused more than an hour to what was supposed to have been their first port stop, the medieval city of Regensburg, Germany.

On the flipside, AmaWaterways replaced the lost day at Nuremberg with a stop at the cozy Danube town of Grein, Austria, where passengers were treated to a tour and Champagne reception at the town's perfectly preserved 15th-century castle.

"It was an awesome excursion that we wouldn't have experienced if we had done the regular trip," said Slater, who gives AmaWaterways high marks for rearranging the schedule on the fly. "It actually was one of my favorite stops of the entire trip."

Slater said AmaWaterways also gave everyone on board a free excursion to Salzburg, Austria, something that normally comes with an extra charge. And when she got home, she received a credit for about $750 off a future cruise as an apology for the changes.

"I really didn't expect that," she said, noting that, despite the initial warnings, her ship was able to travel all the way downriver to Budapest, as planned. "The credit was very generous."

Compensation of some sort is typical when river cruises are significantly disrupted. Schreiner said AmaWaterways gave passengers on seven-night sailings a 15 percent credit toward a future cruise for each day they experienced a disruption on a voyage.

Hoffee said Avalon in most cases refunded a portion of the cruise fare to passengers who had to spend a night or more in a hotel instead of on a ship — something that happened on about 10 percent of the line's voyages. When Avalon knew in advance that passengers would have to spend time in a hotel, it also offered passengers the chance to cancel without penalty.

One of the places where river cruisers last year sometimes found themselves in a hotel instead of on board a ship, as expected, was Budapest. Toward the end of the year, the Danube got so low on the short stretch between Vienna, Austria and the city that lines had to stop ships in Vienna and bus passengers onward to Budapest — a journey of about two-and-a-half hours. They then put them up in hotels for the final day of touring.

Another strategy that river cruise operators employed in 2018 was what is known as "the ship swap." Passengers on a ship on one side of an impassable section of river change places with passengers on a sister ship on the other side of the impasse before continuing with the itinerary. Lines such as Avalon and AmaWaterways operate fleets of identical vessels, meaning that ship-swapping passengers end up in the exact same cabin they had occupied before. In some cases in 2018, passengers had to do more than one ship swap during a single voyage, which is extremely rare.

If the possibility of having to endure that sort of disruption is something you just can't tolerate, it doesn't mean you have to swear off booking a river cruise. Travel agents such as Porter point out there are travel insurance policies that will let you cancel a voyage at the very last minute without penalty if it looks like it might be disrupted by low-water conditions. They're known as "cancel-for-any-reason" policies, and they're offered by many river cruise lines as well as independent travel insurance companies. Some policies offer a full refund. Others give you a credit toward a future trip.

Avalon, for instance, offers a cancel-for-any-reason policy that will allow a customer to cancel a voyage up to 24 hours before departure for a credit that can be used on a later trip. The insurance costs from $249 to $379 per person, depending on the cost of the cruise.

One upscale river cruise operator, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours , has also offered a "river cruise guarantee" since 2017 that promises at least partial refunds for voyages marred by high or low water. Included in the cost of the cruise, the guarantee kicks in when a ship is unable to proceed, and passengers must be bused three or more hours to destinations on the itinerary. It also applies in the case of a ship swap that results in a delay of more than 24 hours.

Such policies could become more important if, as some people are predicting, unusual weather events like the extended dryness in central Europe in 2018 become more common due to climate change.

Still, river cruise industry leaders say they haven't seen a pattern yet that gives them pause.

"It's hard to say that [what happened in 2018] had to do with global warming," said AmaWaterways' Schreiner, who has followed river water levels in Europe closely for nearly three decades. "My feeling is this was a unique year. You will have these unique years maybe every 10 or 15 years."

Schreiner noted that river lines are building 19 new vessels for Europe's rivers this year. If there was serious concern in the industry about future water levels, you wouldn't be seeing this, he suggested. "It seems like demand is still growing, and the cruise lines are not too concerned."

Also not too concerned? The Slaters and their friends. Despite the disruption to their October cruise on the Danube, the three couples have already booked another Europe river trip with AmaWaterways. It'll be on the Douro in 2020. Even if there were to be a disruption due to water issues, Slater doesn't see it as a dealbreaker.

"You're still on vacation," she said. "There's still great food and drink, great people and you're going to beautiful places. Can the trip really be ruined?"

Seriously Low Water Levels Are Disrupting European River Cruises

As rivers dry up during one of the worst droughts in recent european history, river cruise passengers should be prepared for last-minute itinerary changes..

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Europe is in the midst of one of its worst droughts in recent history—how will that affect summer cruising?

Photo by Shutterstock/Travelpixs

Earlier this month, I sailed on my first-ever river cruise along the Rhine, with an itinerary that had stops in the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Switzerland. I was looking forward to exploring the many museums of Amsterdam and wandering through the vineyard villages of Alsace. But as we embarked on our journey in the Netherlands one thing became a constant during the cruise: a thick white waterline along the embankment that followed the river all the way from Germany to Switzerland. It served as a grim reminder of where the water once was, and where it is now—depressingly low.

To ensure that we could continue without running aground, our ship sailed along slowly and carefully, since parts of the Rhine are notoriously challenging to navigate because of treacherous hidden rocks, especially with so little water. While I was still able to do and see the things I had hoped to along the way, ultimately, the entire cruise itinerary ended up being affected, and we had much less time than usual in ports due to the slower pace. My Rhine River sailing with AmaWaterways was one among many river cruises this summer feeling the effects of climate change that have led to extreme drought conditions and shockingly low water levels this summer in Europe.

Across the continent, a historic heat wave and an increasingly unstable Gulf stream —which usually brings wet weather and rain to Europe—have meant that many inland waterways have effectively been drying up, affecting both cruising and trade vessels. Serbian, Romanian, and Bulgarian authorities overseeing the Danube, one of the largest and most important cruising arteries in Europe, have already started conducting emergency dredging (the removal of sediments and debris) of that river to keep vessels moving. Italy’s longest river, the Po, is also struggling and has completely disappeared in some areas as northern Italy experiences one of the worst dry spells it’s seen in 70 years.

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is famous for its scenic vineyard views and villages. It’s also known for being treacherous to navigate.

Photo by Shutterstock/Kanuman

The Rhine, which regularly sees cargo ships carrying wheat, petrol, steel, and coal traveling up and down the river, has also been seriously affected, with water levels dipping below 16 inches in some key navigational areas. Experts warn that the river could reach critically low levels that might affect trade and cruising in mere days, potentially halting it completely. And the European Commission’s Joint Research Center warned this week that drought conditions will worsen over the coming days. During normal weather conditions on the Rhine, about 2,100 gallons of water flow through any one point per second—the flow rate is now down to zero gallons in some places, according to the Associated Press .

Though European river cruising remains in full swing this season, passengers with upcoming sailings should be prepared for possible last-minute changes to itineraries and bookings—as well as cancellations if the situation continues to worsen and ships simply cannot sail for a time—since ships rely on real-time river conditions. During times of drought, being bused between ports in trouble spots is not uncommon, nor is doing what is referred to as a “ship swap,” when passengers on two separate vessels that cannot sail any further due to low water levels will disembark, get bused to another ship, and swap ships owned by the same river cruise line so that they can continue with their itinerary.

During my trip, passengers aboard the new AmaLucia still had a wonderful time and we managed to hit all the stops on our itinerary, but at a slower pace. However, be prepared for shorter excursion times and potential ship swaps. Since low water levels are a greater concern during late summer, consider booking a cruise in the spring or early summer months to be safe.

Associated Press contributed reporting.

Danube water levels by month

Ever found yourself gazing at the majestic Danube and wondering about its mood swings? Yes, rivers have moods too, and the Danube's temperament changes more often than my willingness to hit the gym! Buckle up, as we take a monthly dive into the ebbs and flows of this European giant, ensuring your next rendezvous by its banks isn't a soggy surprise.

For a breathtaking experience along the river, check out options for a boat trip on the danube , or indulge in a splendid evening with dinner and cruise budapest .

Month Average Water Level (meters) Minimum Recorded Level (meters) Maximum Recorded Level (meters) Notes January 2,5 1,8 3,2 Typical winter lows February 2,6 1,9 3,3 Slight increase due to early melts March 2,8 2 3,5 Spring rains begin April 3 2,2 3,8 Peak of spring rains May 3,2 2,4 4 Snowmelt contributes to higher levels June 3,5 2,6 4,3 Stable summer flow July 3,8 3 4,6 Summer peak due to tourism & precipitation August 3,6 2,8 4,4 Slight decrease as summer ends September 3,4 2,5 4,2 Autumnal receding begins October 3,1 2,3 3,9 Further receding in preparation for winter November 2,9 2 3,6 Early winter stabilization December 2,6 1,9 3,3 Typical winter lows return January: The Chilly Recluse

Picture the Danube in January, and you're looking at a river that's not too keen on socializing. Wrapped in the cold, it's often quieter, with water levels taking a bit of a winter nap. Ideal for introspective walks, but maybe not the best for a dip, unless you're a polar bear in disguise.

February: The Subtle Thaw

March: The Spring in its Step

March rolls in, and the Danube begins to stretch and yawn, waking up from its winter slumber. Water levels start to perk up, encouraged by melting snows and spring rains. It's a time of renewal, both for the river and for those of us still trying to justify buying that gym membership.

April: The April Showers Effect

Ah, April, you unpredictable beast. The Danube feels you! April showers bring more than May flowers; they bring a noticeable rise in the river's levels. If the Danube had boots, this would be the month it'd be pulling them on, ready for the rain. April marks the start of Budapest sunset cruises ! It's time to soak in the city's beauty as the sun sets.

May: The Brisk Bloom

Come May, the Danube's in full spring mode. Water levels continue to rise, fed by the last of the melting alpine snows. It's like the river's had its morning coffee and is now ready to take on the day, or in this case, the month.

June: The Gentle Giant

July: High Spirits and Water Levels

In July, the Danube is in high spirits, and so are its water levels. It's the life of the party, inviting everyone to its banks for a bit of sunbathing, a splash, or a leisurely cruise. Just the kind of summer friend we all need. In July, it's great to take a night boat ride on the Danube because the sky is clear, and the weather is warm. You can see Budapest all lit up against the dark sky, which is really beautiful. The temperature is nice, and you get a great view of the city's famous buildings. It's a fantastic way to make special memories under the stars. You should definitely book your night boat ride on the Danube now for an amazing experience!

August: The August Lull

August is when the Danube decides to take things down a notch. Water levels might drop slightly, as if the river itself is taking a lazy summer siesta. It's still a great time for activities, as long as you're okay with the river being a tad less energetic.

September: The Equinox Effect

September brings a sense of balance, not just in day and night but in the Danube's disposition as well. Water levels begin a gentle descent, much like the gradual cooling of the air. It's a reflective time, perfect for peaceful riverside strolls.

In September, go for a Danube wine cruise for a great time. The weather's nice, not too hot or cold, so you can chill out on the boat and enjoy some tasty wines. Plus, it's harvest time for a bunch of vineyards along the Danube, so you'll get to taste some fresh, delicious wines. It's a perfect combo of good weather, beautiful scenery, and yummy drinks. Don't miss out—book your Danube wine cruise now for an awesome trip!

October: The Autumnal Shift

With October, the Danube starts to embrace autumn, its water levels receding in a slow, graceful dance. It's as if the river is swapping its summer vibrancy for the rich, mellow tones of fall. A time for enjoying the changing scenery and maybe a warm beverage by the riverbank.

November: The Pre-Winter Quiet

November sees the Danube getting ready for its winter retreat. Water levels lower, as if the river's conserving its energy for the cold months ahead. It's quieter, more subdued, inviting contemplation and maybe a bit of poetic musing.

December: The Winter's Embrace

Come December, the Danube fully succumbs to winter's embrace. Water levels are at their lowest, reflecting the stillness of the season. It's a time of rest, both for the river and those of us looking back at the year gone by, pondering the flow of time.

In winter, it's best to choose day cruises on the Danube , Budapest. The clear daytime skies allow for stunning views of Budapest's landmarks without the chill of the evening air. You can comfortably enjoy the city's beauty and capture memorable photos under the winter sun. Plus, daytime cruises offer a chance to see the city's architecture in full daylight, highlighting its grandeur. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to explore Budapest from the warmth and comfort of a daytime cruise.

Final Splash

Monitoring the Danube's water levels month by month isn't just about planning your activities. It's about connecting with a natural rhythm, a flow that's been a backdrop to civilizations, cultures, and countless stories. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys a good walk by the water, the Danube has a month that'll resonate with you. So, why not let the river's rhythm guide your next adventure? After all, there's nothing quite like the ebb and flow of life by the Danube to remind us of the beautiful, ever-changing tapestry of existence.

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How can water levels affect a river cruise?

by Emma Smith - 09/11/2018

Rainfall, heat and wind – the weather can have an adverse affect on your river cruising plans which can easily cause redirections, ship swaps and sometimes cancellations.

As with ocean cruising where hurricanes and high winds can force itinerary changes, the weather plays a huge part on determining just how smooth a sailing your river cruise will be.

Fortunately, most river cruises are straightforward and you enjoy visiting your ports of call as normal. However, on the occasions where the weather gets the better of your cruise line, here is a handy guide on what to expect when water levels affect your river cruise.

High water levels

During the spring, when snow melts, it rains more regularly and summer flash floods become a possibility, water levels rise and make a number of rivers impassable.

River cruise ships are built to meet strict requirements including height, width and draft. These are all determined by variables such as bridges they must pass beneath; locks they need to fit through; and the depth of rivers they sail along.

Excess water levels can tip these variables into a danger zone which alerts the crew that they can no longer sail as flooding has made it unsafe to continue. Most of this flooding is seen in April, though it can also affect sailings in May or June as the weather varies year to year.

Rivers most affected by high water levels include the Danube , Rhine and the Moselle .

What happens when the water levels are too high?

There are two options when river levels are too high: turn the remaining cruise into a bus tour or swap ships. Where cruise lines have a fleet of ships operating in similar destinations, passengers can be transferred from one ship to the other to then continue the remainder of the sailing. When this happens, the ships are mostly identical so passengers tend to stay in the same room number and carry on as normal.

Where there are no ships available, passengers will then reach the remaining ports by bus and stay overnight in hotels, or the cruise line would operate day trips from a central location.

River cruise lines will only look to cancel their sailings in extreme circumstances, but if you’re concerned about high water levels, we suggest booking before April and after June to avoid the possibility of reaching high water levels during your sailing.

Low water levels

As well as high levels, low water levels can be just as crippling for a river cruise ship. Low water typically occurs during hot periods of weather, usually from September to October when the summer season comes to an end.

When river levels are low it no longer allows river cruise ships to float without it grounding, making navigating impossible. The Elbe River is most common river to struggle with low levels as it already has a low water volume to begin with.

What happens when the water levels are too low?

When river water levels are too low, river cruise lines will often undertake the same measurements as with high water levels: turn to bus tours and hotel stays or swap ships. In some cases, passengers may be offloaded and ballast tanks will be emptied to lighten the ship for it to pass a particularly low patch, before reboarding when levels are more normal.

Predicting water levels on a river cruise

Unfortunately, water levels are unpredictable. Just because one section of the river is too low, doesn’t mean to say the entire river is.

History doesn’t often offer much insight either, as seen in June 2013 when Passau, Germany was hit with the worst flooding and highest water levels since the Middle Ages!

What other weathers can affect my river cruise?

All river cruise ships are fitted with radar, allowing them to sail through fog patches which would otherwise render crew ‘blind’ to the obstacles and river navigation.

What happens when it’s too foggy on my river cruise?

When you cruise through fog, the ships will slow down to permit for easier manoeuvring, though this will not mean you will miss your tours or trips as river cruise itineraries usually allow for late arrivals in these circumstances.

In extreme cases of thick fog, some rivers may close while the fog clears.

Just as with ocean cruise ships, there are certain restrictions with wind levels that river cruise ships are permitted to cruise in. Across Europe , river ships are able to sail in Level 6 winds. This is classed as a strong breeze and can measure between 22 and 27 knots.

Newer ships do not carry the same qualification, as for the first six months they are classified much lower at a Level 3 which is a gentle breeze and measures between 7 and 10 knots.

When wind levels exceed these restrictions, the ship will become grounded up the wind subsides. In some cases, crew will remove furnishing and close the top deck for safety reasons.

Belgium and the Netherlands’ waterways see a few cases of high winds, due to their close proximity with the Atlantic. The Rhone River also experiences some strong winds in the summer.

What happens when it’s too windy on my river cruise?

If you’re caught in high winds, cruise lines will often arrange bus trips to the that day’s destinations or, in extreme cases, hotel stays will be offered for the remainder of the sailing.

As winds change drastically, decisions can often be made last minute on where to sail and how to arrange tours.

Should I cancel my river cruise due to the weather conditions?

Unless you have travel insurance which covers cancellation, we would advise passengers to wait for the cruise line themselves to get in touch. Cancelling often means you lose out on your full cruise fare and the opportunity to either book another sailing or a refund.

The cruise lines will contact their passengers and share information on itinerary changes, ship swaps and cancellations as soon as they are aware – allowing guests to make an informed decision on what to do next.

Though it can be frustrating when your holiday doesn’t quite go to plan, it helps to know that the cruise lines are prepared to offer alternatives so you don’t miss out on their fantastic itineraries and tours due to a bit of bad weather!

We advise for all passengers to research their sailing dates and regions before booking their cruise and, though we hope your sailing is smooth, remain flexible and open to options just in case you have a last minute change of plans in your itinerary!

Have you experienced high or low water levels on a river cruise? Let us know in the comments below!

About Emma Smith

Emma has more than seven years' experience as a writer and has been in the travel industry for nearly five years. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues.

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One Response to “How can water levels affect a river cruise?”

It was interesting to learn that if the river becomes foggy, there are other options. My children and I have been thinking about going on a small vacation soon, and we need to find things to do. I think that having fun in the water would be really cool, so I will talk to them about it.

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This informative and in-depth guide offers not only a fascinating overview of the world’s most incredible regions, but also some of their most exciting ports and cities as well as all the amazing things you can do there. To help you get the very best out of these destinations, we've assembled a selection of exclusive tailor-made offers in each region, which include voyages on the world's best cruise ships as well as stays in a selection of hand-picked hotels.

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The River Experience

Discover a truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury river cruise, in a class of its own.

• River Experience
• Previous page

Explore Europe and Southeast Asia with Scenic

Enjoy an unrivaled experience on an ultra-luxury river cruise. Our custom-designed ships offer you space to relax and indulge, knowing everything is taken care of – including exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences and personalized Scenic Freechoice excursions for you to explore even further.

The Space-Ship Experience

Why   travel on a Scenic river cruise?

Designed to be the ultimate ultra-luxury river cruise experience of a lifetime, our custom-designed ships cater to smaller guest numbers. Taking you to extraordinary regions and offering you space to relax and unwind as you explore multiple magic towns and cities, on a Scenic river cruise you'll create stories for life.

Ultra-Luxury Suites

The spacious suites are elegantly appointed and are your private sanctuary. They include premium amenities including a Queen-size Scenic Slumber bed, a pillow menu, a luxurious bathroom, and advanced air circulation systems. Discover your very own all-weather window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – available in all suites on our Mekong River cruise and in Royal, Junior, and Balcony Suites on our Europe Space-Ships.

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Dining & Beverages

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience, a relaxed café setting, or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delicious options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, and spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavors of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Fitness & Wellness

Keep up your fitness in the fully equipped gym, unwind with a spa treatment*, or dip in the Vitality Pool+. Choose from a range of wellness facilities available onboard to nourish your mind, body, and soul - your way.

Your On Board Team

Our on board team are dedicated professionals, delivering an exceptional level of world-class service. They will pay attention to the finest details, going to the Nth Degree to ensure you enjoy every moment of your river cruise.

Ultra-luxury River   Cruising 

Discover our river destinations.

• Europe River Cruises
• Southeast Asia River Cruises

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Your guide to Southeast Asia river cruising

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Europe  River Cruises

Discover the captivating waterways and be immersed in the history and culture of Europe's extraordinary regions.

• Destinations
• Previous page

Journey through picturesque European river waterways

Be inspired by the history, culture, cuisine and magnificent sights of Europe. From the charming castles and fairy-tale villages on the Rhine, Main and Danube, and the iconic sites of France, to the renowned Portuguese wine regions along the Douro River. Explore these incredible destinations while enjoying truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury in a class of its own. 

Choose your European Destination

A world of enriching experiences awaits you as you cruise past an array of towns rich in culture and history.

Enjoy a truly all-inclusive river cruise in a class of its own.  

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Our luxurious Scenic Space-Ships have been purpose-built for Europe’s waterways and get you closer to shore to create a real sense of immersion. Let time stand still as you discover the limitless wonders of Europe and enjoy a premium all-inclusive experience.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative ships feature an abundance of luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas, along with spacious suites. Low guest numbers of only up to 163 guests provide an intimate experience. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore.

Luxurious Suites

Each suite offers you the luxury of personal space. Our generously-sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites* feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs. 

Scenic Freechoice

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Scenic’s extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions offer an Active, Moderate or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your passions. Whether it’s a guided hike up beautiful Buda Hill or delectable wine tastings in the French town of Châteauneuf du Pape, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to Scenic guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to after hours access at Bassins de Lumières, a former submarine base turned immersive digital art installation. These carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey. 

Salt Therapy Lounge

Scenic is the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board its Scenic Space-Ships cruising Europe’s waterways. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, the Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system.

Featured Itineraries

Unforgettable Douro

A truly timeless place

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest & Budapest

Hidden Treasures Rediscovered

Jewels of Europe

Europe’s most spectacular river discovery

Romantic Rhine & Moselle

Romance is alive and well on the Rhine

Christmas Markets

Soak up the Christmas magic

• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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Water Levels on the Rhine Are Expected to Reach Critical Levels This Week

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle near Kaub. Photo: Shutterstock.com

River cruise itineraries could soon be expected to be impacted by water levels on Europe’s Rhine Europe, which is set to reach a critical point this week.

According to the German Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration, which tracks the river’s levels , the high mark near Kaub will drop to just under 16 inches (40 cm) on Aug. 12, making it difficult for barges and for river cruise ships to pass the area. The forecast suggests that the level could drop even further later in the week, dropping as far as 14.5 inches on Saturday (37 cm) and then below 13 inches (33 cm) on Monday, Aug. 15.

The critical levels are largely due to a “below-average snowfall last winter and continued glacial attrition,” which comes from a dwindling runoff from glaciers, according to Bloomberg .

That section at Kaub, which is located west of Frankfurt and south of Bonn and Cologne on the river, is along the route for a lot of river cruise line Rhine itineraries, particularly those that run from Amsterdam south through Cologne, Rüdesheim, and to Basel.

Each river cruise line is planning differently on how to deal with the water levels and, because of how quickly the water levels can change and how differently each ship sails, each line is staying flexible in their plans.

Speaking to TMR last month when some were sounding the alarm on potential disruptions, river cruise lines said they were prepared to accommodate guests in one way or another.

A spokesperson for The Scenic Group, which includes both Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises, confirmed that some stretches of the Rhine are experiencing low water levels and said that some routes may be “revised” to deal with the issue.  

Ellen Bettridge, president, and CEO of river cruise company Uniworld, also said that it expects to make adjustments, with daily itineraries possibility being impacted. However, Bettridge added, “we will still be operating.”  

“The nature of rivers is that they ebb and flow with the seasons, and we will make adjustments as necessary with current low water levels caused by the staggering summer heat,” she said. 

Uniworld’s Travel Information page tracks any significant changes from schedules and promised to “keep you posted on significant deviations.” Uniworld also promises email notifications if there are any major changes before sailing. 

Avalon Waterways told TMR that there are plans in place should the situation warrant it for “ship swaps.” 

“Should any portion of the Rhine become impassible, we have contingency plans that include ship swaps for our guests,” Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways said. 

The ship swaps allow for guests to be moved to another ship, past the low point of the river, with identical accommodations, and for the sailing to resume, almost uninterrupted, from there. 

Aside from the ship swaps, Hoffee also said that guests on cruises that are “greatly impacted” are given other options “to ensure the quality of their vacation.” 

And Tauck, unlike some other lines, is also operating land tours in the area, which could come in handy should river sailings be thwarted by low levels. 

“We’re very fortunate that we also operate numerous land tours throughout the region, so we have a fantastic network of local supplier-partners that we can leverage as necessary should alternate arrangements become necessary,” a spokesperson told TMR last month.

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