The Moselle is holding just above its summer low-water benchmark, so normal navigation continues. Forecasts show mainly warm, showery weather, yet a persistent dry spell could push levels toward caution territory in late July.
Current Conditions
Cochem gauge reads 2.17 m (normal navigation range about 2.0 - 3.5 m), no restrictions reported.1
Seven-Day Outlook
Deutscher Wetterdienst expects a mix of sun and scattered thunderstorms across Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland; model guidance keeps the Cochem gauge between 2.10 m and 2.25 m through July 20.2
Three-Week Risk Forecast
| Period | Likelihood of Disruption | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-7 | Normal | High |
| Days 8-14 | Caution | Medium |
| Days 15-21 | Caution | Low |
WSV's seven-day gauge projection shows a slow fall after July 21, and the latest Moselle forecast list warns that continued dryness could push depths near the light-draft trigger after July 28. Cancel-For-Any-Reason insurance remains the safest hedge against last-minute itinerary tweaks.3
Cruise-Line Responses
Spokesperson for AmaWaterways says captains may substitute short motor-coach segments or swap ships if low water hampers lock transits, but no alterations are planned this week.4
Spokesperson for Uniworld reports that staff review Moselle gauges daily and will post any special low-water statement on the Port Locations page at least forty-eight hours before a schedule change.5
Traveler Advice
First, prepare for afternoon highs in the upper 80s °F, pack a refillable bottle, and use sunscreen during vineyard walks and castle hikes.
Second, Bastille Day traffic can back up at French border crossings near Luxembourg, so allow extra transfer time if your itinerary includes bus excursions or embarkation in Metz.
Third, guests sailing in late July or early August should check their cruise-line app each evening for depth advisories before committing to nonrefundable shore Tours, and confirm that Travel Insurance covers both delay and cancellation.
Methodology
This outlook blends real-time PEGELONLINE gauge data, Deutscher Wetterdienst seven-day regional forecasts, and WSV ELWIS seven-day gauge projections.1
Disclaimer
Forecasts beyond ten days are probabilistic and may change without notice. This information does not constitute financial or insurance advice.
Sources
- PEGELONLINE gauge "Mosel - Cochem," reading 217 cm at 01:00 CEST July 14 2025
- Deutscher Wetterdienst seven-day forecast for Rheinland-Pfalz & Saarland, updated July 13 2025
- WSV ELWIS "Wasserstände & Vorhersagen" list for Mosel gauges, data issued July 14 2025
- AmaWaterways FAQ - water-level contingency plans
- 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 motor-coach segments but rarely cancel sailings.
- Where can I see day-of-sailing notices? Use your cruise-line app or WSV "Nachrichten für die Binnenschifffahrt" for real-time alerts.