Near-record low Danube levels halt cruises, hit Hungary tourism

Cruise vessels are stranded north of Budapest as near-record low water levels on the Danube River disrupt tourism in Hungary. Sightseeing trips have been suspended, dealing a blow to the economically important sector.

Data from Hungary's Water Authority revealed the Danube's water level in Budapest fell on Thursday morning to within 8 centimeters of the record low set eight years ago. While levels are expected to rise next week, Hungarian sightseeing operator MAHART-PassNave noted this decline is part of a longer-term trend. The company stated that despite efforts by shipping companies and ports to adapt, water levels are increasingly falling below operational limits.

"River cruise vessels are currently still able to enter Hungary, but several ships are stranded or waiting in ports because of the low water levels," said Laszlo Somodi, Chief Executive of MAHART-PassNave. He emphasized the significant economic contribution of international river cruises to Hungary's shipping industry, carrying approximately 600,000 passengers annually and generating wider economic benefits. Cruise liners remained idle in Budapest and the southern town of Mohacs, unable to continue their journeys due to exceptionally low water levels, while northern ports like Gonyu and Komarom handled the highest traffic volumes.

MAHART-PassNave has experienced an 18% drop in bookings so far in July due to cancellations. Sightseeing tours to cities north of Budapest were suspended this week, with services potentially resuming next week if water levels rise as anticipated. River cruise operator Avalon Waterways also reported canceling a small number of upcoming departures on the Danube and Rhine rivers due to similar low water conditions.

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River cruise vessels are currently still able to enter Hungary, but several ships are stranded or waiting in ports because of the low water levels.