Passenger cruise ship aground on Danube, evacuation underway

A passenger cruise ship carrying 186 people ran aground on the Danube River near the Bulgarian-Romanian border, prompting an urgent evacuation due to dwindling drinking water supplies and hazardous conditions. The vessel, carrying 186 passengers and 52 crew, became stuck Tuesday evening near Salcia. Extremely low water levels and poor visibility made navigation difficult, according to Bulgarian authorities.

The situation escalated as the ship depleted its supply of drinking water, necessitating a swift rescue. Initial plans to transfer passengers to an assisting vessel were abandoned because the river's shallow depth prevented a close approach. Instead, Bulgarian border police boats from Vidin were deployed to ferry passengers to safety.

The rescue operation, which commenced Tuesday afternoon, was anticipated to be completed by Wednesday. Authorities are investigating the incident, with low water levels and reduced visibility identified as the primary causes. No injuries have been reported.

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Since the pitch black of midnight all alone with our multidirectional engines - until 0900AM with a massive Slovakian tug to assist- we haven’t budged! Romania on one side; Bulgaria the other. The Danube is still winning!