The Po is running lower than average yet still above the critical light-draft threshold, so navigation remains normal this week. Prolonged heat and sparse rainfall could drop levels toward caution territory by late July.
Current Conditions
Boretto reference gauge at –2.33 m (normal navigation permitted above –3.50 m), no restrictions reported.1
Seven-Day Outlook
Regional forecasts predict mostly sunny, hot weather with only isolated evening thunderstorms; hydrological models keep the Boretto gauge between –2.4 m and –2.1 m through July 20, leaving sufficient clearance for Cruise vessels.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 Po Basin Authority’s July 10 weekly bulletin notes steadily falling tributary inflows and warns that extended dryness could push sections below light-draft limits after July 26. Cancel-For-Any-Reason insurance remains the safest hedge against last-minute itinerary tweaks.3
Cruise-Line Responses
Spokesperson for Uniworld confirms all Venice–Po sailings are proceeding as scheduled; itineraries may be “modified due to water levels or other uncontrollable factors,” but guests will receive at least forty-eight hours’ notice of any change.4
Spokesperson for CroisiEurope states that captains monitor Po gauges daily and may adjust cruising distances or substitute motor-coach segments when low water hampers lock transits; terms allow itinerary changes without fare reimbursement when caused by river conditions.5
Traveler Advice
First, expect afternoon highs in the upper 80s °F and intense sun on deck; carry water and sun protection on vineyard or Renaissance-city excursions.
Second, Bastille Day does not affect Italian roads, but regional highways around Parma and Ferrara can back up with beach traffic, so allow extra transfer time to and from the pier.
Third, if your Cruise departs in late July or early August, check your operator’s app each evening for depth advisories before paying for independent Tours, and confirm your insurance covers both trip delay and cancellation.
Methodology
Outlook combines AIPO real-time gauge data, Arpae Emilia-Romagna seven-day meteorological forecasts, and the Po Basin Authority’s weekly hydrological bulletin.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
- AIPO Daily Bulletin – “Bollettino Giornaliero dei Fondali e degli Idrometri del Po,” Boretto gauge reading –233 cm on July 11 2025
- Arpae Emilia-Romagna – Regional Seven-Day Weather Forecast
- Po Basin Authority – “Aggiornamento settimanale situazione idrologica,” July 10 2025
- Uniworld Itinerary Notice – Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2025) – water-level modification clause
- CroisiEurope General Terms & Conditions 2024 – itinerary changes due to river water levels
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 could slow passages or require short motor-coach segments, but full cancellations remain unlikely.
- Where can I see day-of-sailing notices? Use your cruise-line app or AIPO’s daily bulletin for real-time updates.