Extreme Drought Is Upending River Cruises

Skift Take Low water levels in Europe are causing widespread disruption to river cruises, leading to one Viking ship running aground. As guests face potential cancellations, the consumer travel insurance industry could be set to win as the sellers of peace of mind. Drought and extreme heat are drying up European rivers — and causing havoc for cruises. The Rhine, flowing through Germany and the Netherlands, reached record-low levels in multiple locations last week. The Danube, which spans 10 countries, dropped to its lowest point in 30 years last month, and the Po river in Italy has also seen falling water levels. Europe has grappled with successive heatwaves and extended dry spells this summer, which have led to drought and severe wildfires. Warming temperatures are exacerbated by the El Niño weather pattern, as well as human-induced climate change. The continent’s waterways are crucial for the flow of goods — and many are popular river cruise routes. Decreasing levels have left ships stranded and operators scrambling to make itinerary adjustments, including ship swaps, bus transfers, and hotel stays. Changes have split guest opinion. Some have taken to social media to defend cruise lines