Barge cruises and low water

[PJCruisers]

The wife and I are exploring the possibility of a river cruise in W Europe next year. However, someone told us the cruise line reserves the right to transfer you to a motor coach in the event the rivers/canals are low. Does anyone have any info concerning this dilemma? Or is it possible to get your down payment back as a result of low water levels?

All information would be appreciated

[Mach ll]

Byob

[H2Otstr]

You might want to look under "River Cruises". This issue has been addressed there, but more in reference to high water or flooding.

[hybrn8]

About 3 years ago, we went (with relatives) on a Christmas Market cruise from Vienna to Nuremburg on a beautiful Viking ship. We made our own air arrangments and arrived two days early and left 2 days later, spending last 2 nights in Heidleburg.

About half way through the trip, we scrapped bottom and could go no further than Passau. The Viking people turned themselves inside out making sure all the shore excursions (which were included in the fare) were conducted and getting everyone to their airports (at least those who booked thru Viking).

We skipped a couple of the long bus trips and did our own thing (rode local trains to small towns with their own Xmas markets). When 'cruise' was over, we took train to Heidleberg.

I am sure some people were upset/disappointed/inconvenienced but we were fine and thought Viking did a great job making everyone happy. So, it could happen but if you are able/willing to go with the flow (or lack thereof), then you will really enjoy the river cruise.