The Rhône is running close to its normal midsummer stage at Avignon and no navigation limits are in force. Forecast models show mostly dry, very warm weather for the coming week, but a protracted dry spell could nudge depths toward caution thresholds in late July.¹²
Current Conditions
Avignon - Pont Daladier gauge at 1.6 m (normal range 1.0 - 5.0 m), no restrictions reported.¹
Seven-Day Outlook
A stubborn subtropical ridge keeps precipitation sparse across the Lower Rhône Valley; Météo-France calls for daytime highs in the mid-90s °F with only isolated heat-storm chances, so river stage should track between 1.5 m and 1.7 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 |
The Rhône - Saône flood-forecast bulletin published July 13 notes steadily falling tributary inflows and warns that continued dryness could trigger light-draft limits after July 26.³ Cancel-For-Any-Reason insurance remains the safest hedge against last-minute itinerary tweaks.
Cruise-Line Responses
Spokesperson for AmaWaterways says captains will deploy ship swaps or short motor-coach segments if low water hampers lock transits, but no changes are planned at this time.⁴
Spokesperson for Uniworld confirms gauges are reviewed daily and a low-water statement will appear on the Port Locations page at least forty-eight hours before any schedule revision.⁵
Traveler Advice
First, pack for intense heat, strong sun, and the stray thunderstorm, and carry water on vineyard or Roman-ruin excursions.
Second, Bastille Day events make Lyon and Avignon quays busier than usual, so allow extra time for transfers and consider booking pier-side parking in advance.
Third, guests sailing in late July or early August should check their cruise-line app each evening for depth advisories before locking in independent shore plans and confirm that their Travel Insurance covers both delay and cancellation.
Methodology
Outlook combines real-time HydroPortail gauge data, Météo-France seven-day forecasts, and the Rhône-Saône regional flood-forecast bulletin.¹²³
Disclaimer
Forecasts beyond ten days are probabilistic and may change without notice. This information does not constitute financial or insurance advice.
Sources
- HydroPortail station V621501001 - Rhône at Avignon, Pont Daladier
- Météo-France seven-day forecast for Avignon
- Vigicrues Rhône amont-Saône territory bulletin, July 13 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 or bridge-clearance checks may slow passages but rarely cancel sailings.
- Where can I get day-of-sailing notices? Use your cruise-line app or the VNF "Avis à la batellerie" feed for real-time alerts.