River Elbe at low water level

Low Water Levels in the Elbe River

, and Administrator

2025 September 7 . 11:28 PM

1 min read

River Elbe at low water level

The city of Dresden is currently experiencing a disruption in its ferry services due to the dropping water levels of the Elbe River. As of July 6, 2025, the ferry service between Tolkewitz and Niederpoyritz remains suspended, and the car ferry service between Kleinzschachwitz and Pillnitz has also halted operations.

Regular checks of ferry points and ships are being conducted by staff to ensure safety, while efforts are made to reduce overtime hours for those working excessively. The ferry service between Johannstadt and Neustadt continues to operate, but there is a possibility of its suspension due to the decreasing water levels.

The passenger ferry in Kleinzschachwitz, however, is still running, as it can operate during low water levels. The company responsible for these ferry services, the Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe (DVB), is utilizing this forced break to carry out minor repairs and maintenance on ferries and facilities.

The Dresdner Verkehrsservice (DVS) is also partaking in these maintenance activities. The duration of ferry operations depends on factors such as ferry draft, passenger and vehicle load, and the condition of the landing site.

Experts do not anticipate a sudden rise in the Elbe's water level, but some landing points can be shifted to accommodate changing water levels, albeit with its own limitations. The final decision to operate or not lies with the ferry captain.

In an effort to maintain service during this challenging time, some ferry operators are driving buses to transport passengers between the affected areas. The company's focus remains on ensuring the safety and convenience of its passengers, while adapting to the changing conditions of the Elbe River.