Important Guest Travel Update – Middle East Airspace Disruptions

June 24, 2025

Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and recent attacks on U.S. military bases in Qatar and Iraq, several airlines have suspended services to a number of destinations in the region or have rerouted flights to alternative stopover destinations.

In response, airlines are actively rerouting flights to avoid the airspace of certain countries and these new flight paths follow routes approved by international aviation authorities to ensure passenger safety. As a result, guests may experience longer travel times or schedule changes for flights transiting this region.

Although most services to and from Europe via affected carriers remain operational (please monitor individual airline schedules for updates), significant flight delays and some cancellations are expected. Airlines are working closely with government authorities to ensure adjustment of operations to minimise guest impacts.

We understand the concern surrounding the situation in the region and please rest assured that guest safety remains our highest priority. We are closely following all government and aviation authority guidelines, and flights will only proceed if deemed safe to do so.

Please note that this situation remains fluid. Our team is actively monitoring developments and will prioritise communication with any guests whose Scenic or Emerald Cruises flights are affected.

Stay Informed

We encourage all guests to register their travel details with DFAT via the Smartraveller Crisis Portal: https://crisis.dfat.gov.au/crisisportal/s and keep updated with the Smartraveller regional advice levels, Global impacts of conflict in the Middle East | Smartraveller.

Important Update on Danube River Cruises – Low Water Levels

June 18, 2025

Following an unusually dry spring, much of Europe - including the upper Danube River region near Passau - is experiencing warm temperatures and limited rainfall. As a result, water levels in some areas are currently lower than normal, which is beginning to impact river navigation.

Our local operations team is actively adjusting sailing schedules to ensure our guest’s cruise experience continues with minimal disruption. In some cases, this may involve transferring guests to a sister ship or adjusting embarkation or disembarkation points to maintain the integrity of our itinerary.

The situation is being closely monitored and we will keep guests, and their travel advisors, informed as a priority should any changes affect their upcoming cruise.

We remain fully committed to delivering the best possible experience under these circumstances and are working diligently to navigate these challenges with care and attention.