Cruises

A historic June 2026 heat wave caused low water levels on the Rhine and Danube rivers, forcing cancellations and itinerary changes by Avalon Waterways, Viking Cruises, and others. The heat wave coincided with thousands of excess deaths across Europe.

Carnival Cruise Line is cancelling 11 voyages planned for late 2026. Affected passengers must adjust plans or seek refunds through the cruise operator.

Viking has named two new ocean cruise ships, Viking Leda and Viking Vega, set for service in 2028 and 2029. Both vessels will carry 998 passengers and sail routes in the Mediterranean, British Isles, and Atlantic regions.

Europe's historic June 2026 heat wave caused severe low water levels on the Danube and Rhine rivers, forcing multiple river cruise cancellations and itinerary changes. Operators including Avalon Waterways and Viking Cruises altered schedules and offered passenger accommodations or refunds.

Fincantieri delivered Explora III, the third of six ships planned for MSC Group's Explora Journeys. The delivery expands the luxury cruise brand's fleet.

Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled 11 voyages scheduled for later in 2026. Passengers must seek refunds or reschedule due to undisclosed reasons affecting various ships and itineraries.

Water levels on the Rhine and Danube rivers have reached record lows, forcing European river cruise operators to adjust itineraries. Cruise lines including Avalon Waterways, AmaWaterways and Viking continue operations with strategic changes but no widespread cancellations.

A 51-year-old woman was medically evacuated from the Carnival Luminosa about 45 miles offshore Humboldt Bay, California, after showing stroke symptoms. The U.S. Coast Guard performed a helicopter rescue amid challenging weather conditions on July 16, 2026.

Historic low water levels on the Rhine and Danube rivers in July 2026 have forced major European river cruise lines to alter itineraries. Operators like Avalon, Viking, and AmaWaterways are using motorcoach transfers and ship swaps to maintain service while ensuring passenger safety.

The U.S. Coast Guard medevaced a 51-year-old passenger from Carnival Luminosa 45 miles off Humboldt Bay, California on July 16, 2026. The woman showed stroke symptoms and was transported to Mendocino Coast Hospital.