Low Rhine Levels Prompt Viking Ship Transfer and Land Detour
The August 19, 2026, sailing has been revised because the Maxau section is considered unsafe for vessel passage.
Low water levels on the Rhine have led Viking to arrange an emergency ship transfer and land-based detour for its August 19, 2026, sailing, according to the report. The Maxau section of the river was identified as impassable because depths were insufficient for safe vessel movement.
Under the revised plan, passengers are scheduled to disembark Viking Idun in Cochem, Germany, and transfer to another river vessel to bypass restricted sections. The adjusted itinerary also includes a motorcoach transfer to Strasbourg, France.
The sailing’s schedule has been modified to accommodate the changes while seeking to retain as many destination visits as possible. The report said Viking was monitoring river conditions daily and that further itinerary adjustments could occur.