River Cruise Travel Updates
Last updated: 09:00(CDT), September 4 2026
Current River Conditions Across Europe
After an unprecedented period of dry weather this summer, which led to historic low water levels on the Rhine and Danube, rainfall in key areas has seen conditions improve slightly. We continue to monitor water levels, and we are updating passengers as soon as we have the information.
Water levels on Europe's rivers can fluctuate quite significantly within a short period of time. While we will continue to monitor conditions closely, operational decisions must often be delayed until the latest possible point to maximize, the opportunity to operate the planned itinerary. We are committed to contacting customers approximately 14 days before departure with a detailed update.
Any decisions regarding itinerary amendments are made only when there is sufficient certainty that a change is required, working closely with our onboard nautical team, ensuring we balance customer experience, operational practicality and safety.
Our teams are working hard to ensure the best possible holiday is delivered to our customers. We update this page weekly with the latest updates.
Keeping you updated
Our teams in the UK and the affected regions are regularly monitoring conditions and working with our partners to ensure we can share the latest information with you. We understand how important it is that you are kept informed and will be in touch regularly prior to your vacation. To ensure we can use the most up-to-date information, we will be sending final travel documents closer to your departure date.
Latest departure information
Our August sailings went ahead with revised itineraries, and all customers have been contacted directly about any changes. If you have travelled and want to contact us, the best way to contact our team via email cr@greatrail.com.
We will continue to monitor conditions on the Rhine and Danube in September. Any potential impact to vacations will be communicated at least 1 week before your departure.
Departures Operating with Revised Itineraries
| Ship | Itinerary | Sailing Date |
| MS Amadeus Nova |
Delights of the Danube: Fly Fairytale Bavaria & Delights of the Danube Glacier Express, Austrian Alps & Danube Cruise Imperial Cities & Delights of the Danube |
September 8, 2026 |
Rivers not affected
We work with our partners to ensure we have the latest information on all rivers we sail on. Currently, our cruises in France and Portugal are unaffected and there are no sailing restrictions on the following rivers:
- Rhône
- Seine
- French waterways for barge cruises
- Douro