The Bergerac gauge shows the Dordogne running a little below its midsummer average, so navigation on combined Bordeaux-region itineraries remains normal. Forecasts point to hot, mostly dry weather, which could push depths toward caution thresholds by late July.
Current Conditions
Bergerac gauge reads 0.95 m at 09:00 CEST on July 13 (normal Cruise navigation stays reliable above about 0.80 m, long-term range 0.80 m - 4.0 m), and no restrictions are in force.1
Seven-Day Outlook
Météo-France expects mostly sunny, very warm afternoons across Périgord, with only isolated evening thunderstorms. Hydrological models keep the Bergerac gauge between 0.90 m and 1.00 m through July 20, leaving ample depth at locks and the tidal confluence.2
Three-Week Risk Forecast
| Period | Likelihood of Disruption | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 - 7 | Normal | High |
| Days 8 - 14 | Caution | Medium |
| Days 15 - 21 | Caution | Low |
The Nouvelle-Aquitaine hydrological bulletin issued July 10 notes falling tributary inflows and warns that an extended dry spell could trigger light-draft limits on the lower Dordogne after July 26.3 Cancel-For-Any-Reason insurance is still the safest hedge against late itinerary tweaks.
Cruise-Line Responses
Spokesperson for CroisiEurope states that captains monitor Dordogne gauges daily and may shorten sailing distances or substitute motor-coach segments if low water hampers lock schedules, but no changes are planned this week.4
Spokesperson for Uniworld confirms that any low-water statement will appear on the Port Locations page at least forty-eight hours before a schedule revision, and none are posted for current departures.5
Traveler Advice
First, expect afternoon highs in the upper 80s °F, strong sun on vineyard terraces, and hot stone quays-pack sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and a refillable bottle.
Second, Bastille Day festivities on July 14 can clog Bordeaux traffic; allow extra time for pier transfers or independently booked Tours.
Third, guests sailing after July 25 should check their cruise-line app each evening for depth advisories before committing to non-refundable shore plans, and make sure Travel Insurance covers both delay and cancellation.
Methodology
This outlook blends real-time HydroPortail gauge data, Météo-France seven-day forecasts, and the regional hydrological bulletin from DREAL Nouvelle-Aquitaine.1 2 3
Disclaimer
Forecasts beyond ten days are probabilistic and may change without notice. This information does not constitute financial or insurance advice.
Sources
- HydroPortail station B402001001 - "La Dordogne à Bergerac" gauge page
- Météo-France seven-day forecast for Bergerac
- DREAL Nouvelle-Aquitaine - Bulletin de situation hydrologique, July 10 2025 (PDF)
- CroisiEurope itinerary "Bordeaux, the Dordogne and the Gironde" - water-level notice
- Uniworld Travel Information - water-level updates
FAQ
- How often is this page updated? Every Monday by 10 a.m. Central Time.
- What does "Caution" mean in the table? Minor depth limits may slow passages or require brief coach transfers but rarely cancel sailings.
- Where can I see day-of-sailing notices? Use your cruise-line app or the VNF "Avis à la batellerie" feed for real-time alerts.