In the early hours of May 11, 2025, the river cruise vessel MS Bijou du Rhône, operated by Nicko Cruises, was involved in a collision with a barge on the Rhône River near the commune of Sablons in southeastern France. The incident occurred during a scheduled voyage carrying 127 German tourists.
The impact resulted in damage to the cruise ship's hull above the waterline, while the barge sustained significant structural harm. Fortunately, the positioning of the damage on the Bijou du Rhône eliminated immediate concerns of flooding or sinking.
French authorities promptly initiated evacuation procedures for all passengers and crew members. Arrangements were made to transport them by bus to their intended destination later that day. As of the latest reports, no injuries have been reported among those on board.
The MS Bijou du Rhône is a river cruise ship designed to offer passengers an immersive experience along the Rhône River, featuring amenities such as stylishly appointed cabins, a spacious panorama salon, and an inviting sun deck.
This incident underscores the importance of stringent navigational protocols and the need for continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of riverine travel. Investigations into the cause of the collision are expected to be conducted by the relevant maritime authorities to prevent future occurrences.