Exceptionally low water levels on the Rhine and Danube are forcing river cruise operators to reroute their itineraries, turning Antwerp into an unexpected summer hotspot for river cruises.
Since mid-July, the city has received 110 last-minute requests from cruise operators seeking berths after parts of the Rhine, including the popular Amsterdam to Basel route, became unnavigable because of the drought, Gazet van Antwerpen reports. According to the City of Antwerp, a total of 220 river cruises are now expected to call at Antwerp during July and August, roughly double the number originally scheduled.
The increase is expected to bring around 16,500 additional passengers to the city this summer, based on an average of 150 passengers per vessel.
Unlike the Rhine and Danube, the tidal River Scheldt has remained fully navigable despite the prolonged dry weather. Its direct connection to the North Sea and regular dredging operations mean water levels remain sufficient for shipping.
The influx has created a logistical challenge for the city. Antwerp has space for around 20 river cruise vessels along the Scheldt Quays, although some berths are regularly occupied by ocean-going cruise ships or unavailable because of events. Additional berths at Kattendijkdok and Willemdok are currently only accessible to smaller vessels because of tunnel works. The city said accommodating the extra ships has required careful planning, but so far every vessel has been assigned a suitable berth.
The drought has also disrupted cruise itineraries beyond simply changing destinations. Around ten vessels have had to extend their stay in Antwerp by an extra day since mid-July, while some passengers are transferred by coach to ships waiting on navigable sections of the Rhine further upstream. Conversely, buses also bring passengers from ships that cannot reach Antwerp.
Tour Management Belgium, which provides guides, excursions and transport services for river cruise operators, has experienced a sharp increase in demand since late July. Managing last-minute excursions and transfers has become significantly more complex, but the company said many passengers who arrive unexpectedly are pleasantly surprised by Antwerp and respond positively to guided tours.
While the city expects only modest additional revenue from harbour fees of €300 to €500 per vessel, the increase in cruise traffic is expected to provide a boost for local tourism and businesses during what is traditionally a quieter period of the summer season.
