Exceptionally low water levels in the Danube River this week caused by the drought have left several cruise ships stuck north of Budapest and canceled sightseeing excursions for tourists, hampering a crucial industry for Hungary.
"According to measurements taken this morning, the water level in the Danube in Budapest was eight centimeters higher than the absolute minimum level registered eight years ago," said the Hungarian Water Authority.
"The decrease in water levels is a growing concern as the trend shows a gradual decline, despite adaptations at the ports and shipping companies," added Hungarian tourism organization MAHART-PassNave.
"River cruises are allowed to enter Hungary; however, there are currently several ships stranded or waiting at the port due to the low water levels, " stated Laszlo Somodi, chief executive officer of MAHART-PassNave.
Somodi noted that international river cruises are of great importance in terms of economic value.
The industry carries about 600,000 passengers in Hungary every year and makes a significant contribution to the country's economy aside from the direct economic impact.
Northern ports, including Gonyu and Komarom, are the busiest in Hungary, while several river cruise ships are stuck in Budapest and the southern city of Mohacs, unable to continue their journey.
According to the Hungarian tourism organization, there has been an 18% decrease in passenger bookings for July.
Excursions to the north of Budapest were canceled this week, with the option to reschedule next week should water levels rise.
The effects of the drought are not limited to Hungary, as Avalon Waterways announced earlier this week that they had canceled a few cruises due to the low water levels affecting both the Danube and Rhine Rivers.
Tourists and local authorities alike are keeping a close eye on the water levels as the pattern seems to indicate that even more excursions and cruises will have to be canceled in the near future.
