In 2024, Finland leads Europe with 8.08 thousand km of navigable rivers and lakes, followed by Germany with 5.49 thousand km. The other key countries include Poland, Netherlands, and Romania. The United Kingdom, Czech Republic, and Slovakia report the lowest figures. In 2023, Romania showed the highest year-on-year growth at 10.37%, while Lithuania saw the largest decrease at -0.87%. Over the last two years, Poland and Netherlands experienced positive trends, generally rising in navigability.
In the long term, the increase in infrastructure investments, climate change impacts, and environmental policies will shape the future of navigable waterways in Europe. Watch for advancements in sustainable waterway management, as countries work to balance economic benefits with environmental protection. Enhanced connectivity and transport efficiency, particularly in Eastern Europe, could drive changes in navigable river and lake utilization.
Top countries in Length of Navigable Rivers and Lakes by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Kilometers | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Finland | 8,080 | 2023 | +0.18% | -0.068% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Germany | 5,490 | 2023 | 0% | -0.58% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Poland | 3,430 | 2023 | -0.055% | +0.66% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Netherlands | 3,060 | 2023 | +2.1% | +0.85% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Romania | 2,700 | 2023 | +2.12% | +10.37% | View data |
| 6 | 6 France | 1,910 | 2023 | +0.37% | -0.54% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Hungary | 1,410 | 2023 | +0.12% | +0.051% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Serbia | 1,070 | 2021 | 0% | View data | |
| 9 | 9 Croatia | 1,020 | 2023 | -0.02% | -0.0059% | View data |
| 10 | 10 United Kingdom | 889 | 2023 | -0.11% | -0.045% | View data |
