The passenger cruiser MS Swiss Crystal hit a motorway bridge pylon close to Duisburg, injuring around 30 people. Another vessel helped passengers to safety.
The incident happened late Tuesday, December 26, on Rhine River near the city of Duisburg, north-west Germany.
According to police, the accident was comparatively mild. The ship was damaged by the impact on the bow.
There were 129 people onboard when the ship hit a supporting pillar of A42 motorway.
4 people were taken to hospital with serious injuries. None of the injuries appeared fatal.
A nearby ship helped to take the injured off MS Swiss Crystal and took the 26 crew members and 103 passengers on board. Several fire department boats were also involved.
A42 is expected to remain closed today, December 27, as structural engineers carry out safety checks.
MS Swiss Crystal was en route to the Netherlands when the accident occurred.