Get Away From The Noise With Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Author: Maharshi Soni on May 26,2024

Avalon Waterways specializes in cruises that traverse the world's most picturesque and culturally rich rivers. Their fleet of state-of-the-art Suite Ships is designed to offer passengers an unparalleled cruising experience, combining luxury with comfort and flexibility. The hallmark of Avalon's fleet is its Panorama Suites, which feature wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that transform into open-air balconies, allowing guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes.

Avalon Waterways River Cruise covers diverse destinations, including legendary European rivers like the Danube, Rhine, and Seine, as well as more exotic locales, such as the Mekong in Southeast Asia and the Amazon in South America. Each itinerary is meticulously crafted to provide an immersive cultural experience, featuring guided excursions to historical sites, local markets, and culinary hotspots. The cruise line also emphasizes flexibility, offering various excursions and optional activities to cater to different interests and activity levels.

History Of Avalon Waterways River Cruises

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Established in 2004, Avalon is a part of the Globus family of brands, which boasts over 90 years of experience in the travel industry. Their first ship, the Avalon Artistry, launched in 2004, introduced a new level of elegance and comfort to river cruising. A significant milestone in Avalon's history came with the introduction of its Suite Ships in 2011. These ships featured Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that could open to create an open-air balcony. Avalon Waterways has maintained a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. They have consistently upgraded their fleet, introducing new ships with modern amenities and environmentally friendly technologies.

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Ships Of Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Avalon Alegria

Launch Year: 2024
 

Capacity: 102
 

Length: 262 ft

The Avalon AlegriaSM, launching in 2024, is uniquely tailored for cruising Portugal's Douro River. What sets the AlegriaSM apart is its focus on regional immersion. The ship's intimate size allows it to navigate the narrower, winding stretches of the Douro, bringing guests closer to the terraced vineyards and charming villages of the Douro Valley. A standout feature of the AlegriaSM is its gourmet dining experience. It highlights Portuguese cuisine paired with local wines, offering cooking demonstrations and wine tastings with authentic regional taste. The Sky Decks whirlpool and lounge areas provide a perfect vantage point for the scenic landscapes.

Avalon View

Launch Year: 2022
 

Capacity: 164
 

Length: 361 ft

The Avalon View stands out for its modern design and expansive views along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers. Its unique feature is the extensive use of Panorama Suites, which constitute most of its accommodations. Each suite features wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open to create an open-air balcony, providing an immersive viewing experience. The Avalon View also excels in offering a variety of active excursions, such as guided bike tours and hiking adventures, through its innovative Adventure Center, which provides guests with all the necessary equipment and support for their explorations.

Avalon Artistry II

Launch Year: 2013
 

Capacity: 97
 

Length: 361 ft

The Avalon Artistry II is distinguished by its artistic and sophisticated design, reflected in its decor and onboard ambiance. Cruising the Rhine River, the Artistry II features an intimate setting with 52 Panorama Suites designed to maximize comfort and provide stunning river views. The ship's standout feature is its cultural enrichment programs, which include local artist performances, art workshops, and historical lectures, allowing guests to deeply connect with the rich artistic heritage of the regions they visit. The cozy yet elegant Club Lounge offers a perfect retreat for enjoying these cultural activities.

Avalon Envision

Launch Year: 2019
 

Capacity: 164
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Envision is known for its contemporary luxury and state-of-the-art amenities, such as cruising the scenic Danube River. The Envision's best feature is its extensive wellness facilities, which include a fitness center, yoga classes, and a wellness host who curates personalized fitness and relaxation programs. The Envision also features a unique Adventure Center that provides guests with bicycles, Nordic walking sticks, and other equipment for active excursions, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle while on board. Additionally, the ship's elegant Sky Deck with a whirlpool offers a tranquil space for relaxation amidst breathtaking views.

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Avalon Passion

Launch Year: 2016
 

Capacity: 164
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Passion offers an intimate and luxurious cruising experience along the Danube River. Its distinguishing feature is the immersive cultural and culinary experiences it provides. The Passions Panorama Dining Room specializes in regional cuisine, and the ship frequently hosts local chefs and culinary experts who conduct cooking demonstrations and tastings. This focus on local flavors extends to its wine selection, which features some of the best regional wines. The Sky Decks shaded lounge area and whirlpool further enhance the luxurious onboard experience, providing an ideal setting for relaxation.

Avalon Illumination

Launch Year: 2014
 

Capacity: 166
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Illumination is notable for its spacious accommodations and luxurious amenities. Cruising the Danube River, the Illumination stands out with its many Panorama Suites, each offering open-air balconies that bring the outside scenery into the guests' living space. The ship's best feature is its entertainment and enrichment programs, which include nightly performances, educational lectures, and interactive workshops that reflect the culture and history of the destinations visited. The spacious Sky Deck, equipped with a whirlpool and premium lounge chairs, provides a perfect spot for guests to unwind and enjoy the panoramic views.

Avalon Impression

Launch Year: 2014
 

Capacity: 166
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Impressions' standout feature is its attention to personalized service and guest comfort. With a high staff-to-guest ratio, the crew ensures every need is met with meticulous care. The ship's elegant Panorama Lounge and intimate Club Lounge provide perfect settings for socializing and relaxation. The Impression also offers a variety of dining experiences, including the al fresco Sky Grill, which allows guests to enjoy gourmet meals while taking in the stunning views.

Avalon Expression

Launch Year: 2013
 

Capacity: 166
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Expressions' best feature is its focus on relaxation and leisure. It has numerous lounge areas and a spacious Sky Deck with a whirlpool and premium loungers. The ship also features the Panorama Bistro, which offers a more casual dining experience with light, locally inspired dishes. The cozy Club Lounge provides a 24-hour self-service station with beverages and snacks, ensuring guests have everything they need for a comfortable and relaxing journey.

Avalon Vista

Launch Year: 2012
 

Capacity: 166
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Vistas' unique feature emphasizes scenic views and outdoor experiences. The VistaSMs Sky Deck has a whirlpool, premium loungers, and a shaded lounge area, providing guests with multiple options to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. The ship also stands out with its Adventure Center, which offers equipment for active excursions such as biking and Nordic walking. The Panorama Dining Room and Sky Grill provide exceptional dining experiences with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Avalon Panorama

Launch Year: 2011
 

Capacity: 166
 

Length: 443 ft

The Avalon Panorama ship cruises the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, offering unparalleled views from its 67 Panorama Suites, which feature wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open to create open-air balconies. The Panorama's best feature is its immersive viewing experience, allowing guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the passing landscapes from the comfort of their suites. The ship also features a Sky Deck with a whirlpool, premium lounge chairs, and shaded areas, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and sightseeing.

Drift through Europe's most enchanting landscapes and experience the epitome of elegance on Avalon Waterways River Cruises. Our team is ready to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Contact us at 1-888-509-1184 or complete our cruise booking inquiry form to have the adventure of a lifetime.

Cabin Details Of Avalon Waterways River Cruises

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Panorama Suites

The Panorama Suites are the hallmark of Avalon Waterways, offering an unparalleled river cruising experience. These suites are available on all Avalon Suite Ships and are designed for double occupancy, making them perfect for couples or friends traveling together.

Deluxe Staterooms

Deluxe Staterooms are available on all Avalon ships and provide a comfortable and elegant retreat for one or two guests. These staterooms, typically measuring around 172 square feet, feature large windows that offer stunning river views.

Royal Suites

For those seeking an even more luxurious experience, Avalon Waterways offers Royal Suites on select ships. These spacious suites, measuring approximately 300 square feet, are designed for double occupancy but can comfortably accommodate up to three guests with the addition of a rollaway bed.

Single Staterooms

Avalon Waterways recognizes the needs of solo travelers and offers Single Staterooms on select ships. These staterooms are designed for single occupancy, ensuring that solo travelers do not have to pay a high single supplement.

Also Read: Travel Guide - Tips To Enjoy An All-Inclusive Cruise Vacation

Ports Of Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The city's port is centrally located, allowing easy access to the vibrant capital of the Netherlands. Upon arrival, guests can explore Amsterdam's famous canals, historic sites, and world-class museums. The city's extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and trains, makes navigating easy. 

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a major embarkation and disembarkation port for Avalon's Danube River cruises. Budapest's well-connected public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro, allows guests to travel easily. The central railway station also provides routes to other Hungarian cities and international destinations.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a popular port of call for Avalon Waterways cruises along the Danube River. The port's location near the city center makes it easy for guests to immerse themselves in Vienna's rich cultural heritage. Viennas' efficient public transportation network, consisting of trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway), allows guests to navigate the city easily. The city's main train stations offer convenient travel options to other Austrian cities and neighboring countries.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel is an essential port for Avalon Waterways Rhine River cruises. Basel offers a unique blend of cultural influences at the tripoint of Switzerland, Germany, and France. For transportation, Basel boasts an efficient public transit system with trams and buses that make getting around the city straightforward. The Basel SBB train station offers excellent connections to other Swiss cities and European destinations, making it easy for guests to extend their travel before or after their cruise.

Flight Option For Avalon Waterways River Cruises

In Amsterdam, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is one of Europe's busiest and most well-connected airports, offering flights to major destinations worldwide and ensuring seamless connections for international travelers. In Budapest, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) provides extensive connections across Europe and beyond, making it an ideal hub for both regional and long-haul flights. Vienna International Airport (VIE) is a significant gateway to central and eastern Europe, with numerous airlines operating flights to destinations around the globe, ensuring efficient travel options for guests departing from Vienna. In Basel, EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP) serves three countries and offers a wide range of European and international flights.

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Hotels To Stay After Avalon Waterways River Cruises

In Amsterdam, the Pulitzer Amsterdam offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, set within 25 restored 17th and 18th-century canal houses, providing easy access to major attractions. In Budapest, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace is a stunning art nouveau landmark overlooking the Danube River, combining opulent accommodations with proximity to iconic sites like the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle. In Vienna, the Hotel Sacher Wien exudes classic Viennese elegance and is located next to the State Opera House, offering guests a taste of historic grandeur and modern comforts. In Basel, the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, one of the oldest city hotels in Europe, provides a luxurious stay with spectacular views of the Rhine River, blending traditional hospitality with contemporary amenities.

Let's Come To The Vacation View

Avalon Waterways River Cruises brings you the historic canals of Amsterdam, the majestic beauty of Budapest, the cultural richness of Vienna, and the charming streets of Basel. After the cruise, the journey continues seamlessly with luxurious accommodations and convenient travel options, ensuring that every aspect of the experience is as extraordinary as the destinations. Sign up for the Leisure newsletter for daily updates about your preferred cruise vacations.