Travelling by sea or inland waterway

Passengers travelling by sea or inland waterway within the EU are protected under Regulation 1177/2010, which came into force on December 18, 2012. This regulation ensures fair treatment in cases of delays, cancellations, accessibility needs, and more.

The regulation applies to:

  • passenger services departing from an EU Member State
  • passenger services arriving in an EU Member State, if operated by an EU carrier
  • cruises that start from an EU Member State.

Below is an overview of your rights when travellingby sea or inland waterway.

Cancellation or delay (90+ minutes at departure)

Passengers are entitled to:

  • reimbursement or rerouting to their final destination
  • assistance, including snacks, meals, and refreshments
  • hotel accommodation (if necessary, up to three nights, max 80 EUR per night).

Compensation

In case of delayed arrival or journey cancellation, passengers may receive compensation between 25% and 50% of the ticket price, depending on the length of the delay.

Rights for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility

Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to:

  • free assistance at port terminals and onboard ships
  • financial compensation for loss or damage to mobility equipment.

Right to information

Passengers must receive:

  • information about their rights before and during the journey
  • general information displayed in terminals and onboard ships.

Complaint handling and enforcement

Carriers and terminal operators must have a complaint handling system available to all passengers.
Each EU Member State must establish independent national bodies to enforce the regulation and apply penalties where necessary.

Know your rights and travel with confidence!

For more details, visit the official EU passenger rights page https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/passenger-rights/ship/index_en.htm