127 Passengers Evacuated After MS Bijou du Rhône Collides with Barge Near Sablons

Introduction
In the early hours of May 11, 2025, the river cruise vessel MS Bijou du Rhône , operated by Nicko Cruises, collided 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. While the collision caused damage to both vessels, there were no reported injuries among passengers or crew. French authorities swiftly evacuated all individuals aboard and transported them by bus to their intended destination later that day. This incident highlights the importance of stringent navigational protocols and continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of riverine travel.

Details of the Incident

Collision Overview:

• The collision occurred in the early hours of May 11, 2025, on the Rhône River near Sablons, southeastern France.
• The *MS Bijou du Rhône*, carrying 127 German tourists, collided with a barge during a scheduled voyage.
• The impact caused damage to the cruise ship’s hull above the waterline, while the barge sustained significant structural harm.
• Fortunately, the positioning of the damage eliminated immediate concerns of flooding or sinking.

Evacuation Procedures:

• French authorities promptly initiated evacuation procedures for all 127 passengers and crew members.
• Passengers were safely transported by bus to their intended destination later that day.
• No injuries were reported among those on board.

Vessel Overview:

• The *MS Bijou du Rhône* is a river cruise ship designed to provide an immersive experience along the Rhône River.
• It features stylishly appointed cabins, a spacious panorama salon, and an inviting sun deck.
• The vessel is operated by Nicko Cruises and caters primarily to German-speaking travelers.

Investigation and Safety Implications:

• Relevant maritime authorities are expected to conduct investigations into the cause of the collision.
• This incident underscores the need for stringent navigational protocols and continuous monitoring to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Response and Impact

Emergency Response:

• French authorities acted swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, evacuating them without incident.
• The prompt response minimized potential risks and ensured that all individuals reached their destination safely.

Passenger Experience:

• While the evacuation disrupted the planned itinerary, passengers were provided with alternative transportation to continue their journey.
• The absence of injuries and the efficient handling of the situation likely mitigated passenger dissatisfaction.

Broader Implications:

• This incident highlights the challenges of navigating busy waterways like the Rhône River, particularly during nighttime or low-visibility conditions.
• Industry experts emphasize the importance of advanced navigation systems, crew training, and coordination with local maritime authorities to enhance safety.

Key Takeaways:

• The river cruise vessel *MS Bijou du Rhône* collided with a barge on the Rhône River near Sablons, France, on May 11, 2025.
• All 127 passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.
• The collision caused damage to the cruise ship’s hull above the waterline and significant structural harm to the barge.
• French authorities transported passengers by bus to their intended destination later that day.
• Maritime authorities are expected to investigate the incident to prevent future occurrences.