River Cruise Travel Updates

Last updated:  18:00, 4 August 2026 

Current River Conditions Across Europe

As widely reported in the media, Europe is currently experiencing an extended period of extreme heat and dry weather, which has led to exceptionally low water levels across parts of its river network. The Rhine recently fell to its lowest level since measurement began, while sections of The Danube have dropped below previous record lows set in 2018. These low water levels are affecting river navigation across parts of Europe, and conditions remain changeable based on external factors, most notably the lack of rainfall.

Conditions can vary significantly by river, destination and departure dates. Some sailings may require changes to the planned itinerary, a ship swap or cancellation. As each ship is designed differently, some vessels may be able to continue operating safely in conditions that affect others.

Our teams in the UK, on board and across Europe are working around the clock to support our guests and deliver the best possible holiday experience. We will update this page daily with our latest official sailing information, including any changes to departures. 

What happens if my cruise is affected? 

If your departure is unable to operate as planned, our team will call you directly to talk through the options available to you. Where you have booked via a Travel Agent, we have passed on all relevant updates so they can inform you directly.

Latest Departure Status

1. Departures Operating with Revised Itineraries

The following itineraries are currently operating with revised itineraries. We have contacted impacted guests and continue to monitor river conditions closely should any further changes be required along the way.

2. Cancelled Cruises

On the cruises below, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the planned cruise. After careful review, we have concluded that there is no viable alternative itinerary that can be delivered. We have contacted all affected guests to discuss their options, including a full refund should they wish.

3. Departures Under Review

The following sailings are currently under review. If your holiday is affected, we aim to contact you by telephone a minimum of 72 hours before departure, which will give us time to assess the constantly changing water levels. Please rest assured that we will be in touch as soon as we have an update for you.

4. Departures Operating as Planned

Conditions remain favourable across the following rivers, and we do not currently expect any disruption to imminent departures. We are pleased to confirm that all itineraries on these rivers are operating as planned:

• Douro
• Rhone
• Seine
• Dutch & Belgian waterways 

Keeping you updated every step of the way

If you’re travelling on the Rhine, Moselle, Danube or Main, we’ll stay in touch in the lead-up to your holiday and share the latest updates as soon as they’re available.

15+ days before departure – We’ll let you know if your sailing is being monitored due to river conditions.

Around 14 days before departure – You’ll receive an update with the latest information available for your sailing.

Around 7 days before departure –  We’ll share a further update as plans continue to develop.

72 hours before departure – Irrespective of whether your holiday is affected, we will contact you by telephone 72 hours before departure to confirm your travel arrangements.

We understand that these exceptional low-water conditions are disappointing and, in some cases, stressful. We’re sorry for the uncertainty this may cause. Our priority is to make our updates and communications as clear as possible, so every guest can make an informed decision about their holiday.

We hope this guidance is helpful. If you have an urgent query that is not covered here, please call our Guest Services team on 01283 688 220.