Early this month, Avalon Waterways divulged their newest addition and the river cruise industry’s first unique “Suite Ship” in Mainz, Germany: the Avalon Panorama. The 166-passenger Panorama is the first Suite Ship River Cruise that offers two entire decks of extra-wide, wall-to-wall, panoramic window view suites. The Panorama Suite is more than 30% larger than a standard suite- 200 square feet- with attractive floor-to-ceiling sliding glass windows rather than balconies to utilize space better. The ship also includes two 300-square feet royal suites and 17 172-square feet staterooms on the lower decks.
The ship has also made several refinements such as innovative floor-to-ceiling marble in the bathrooms, an Internet corner with Wi-Fi access, a well- equipped library, an expanded fitness room twice the size of other Avalon Waterway ships, a spacious Sky Deck with extravagant lounge chairs, a whirlpool, and an Open-Air Bistro. The Avalon Panorama now has the ability to navigate the 26 locks between Amsterdam and Budapest from May through November on 14-night Magnificent Europe itineraries. According to Avalon, 97% of the cruise is sold out through November, so be sure to book your cruise for December while it still remains available.
Why River Cruising Is the Fastest-Growing Segment in Travel
At Atlas Travel Center, we’ve watched river cruising transform from a niche product into one of the most sought-after vacation experiences in travel — and it’s easy to understand why. River ships sail into the hearts of cities that ocean vessels can’t reach, mooring steps from centuries-old cathedrals, Christmas markets, and vineyard-draped hillsides. The ships themselves are intimate — typically 100 to 200 passengers — which creates a completely different social atmosphere than a large ocean cruise.
Every major river cruise line has its own character, and matching the right line to the right traveler is something our advisors take seriously. Viking appeals to intellectually curious travelers who want enriching destination programming. AMA Waterways is consistently praised for its culinary focus and wine-pairing experiences. Avalon’s panoramic suite design is beloved by travelers who want to feel immersed in the scenery. We book all of the major lines and can give you an honest comparison based on your priorities and travel style.
What’s Included — and What Isn’t
River cruise pricing can look similar across lines at first glance, but what’s bundled into the fare varies significantly. Shore excursions, beverages, gratuities, and airfare may or may not be included depending on the line and promotion. Our team reads the fine print so you’re never caught off guard. We also know which sailings on which rivers are most likely to be affected by low or high water levels — a practical consideration that rarely appears in marketing materials.
Book Your River Cruise with Atlas
Contact Atlas Travel Center to explore river cruise options that match your travel style and budget. We’re CLIA-certified, have been booking river cruises since the segment’s early days, and hold an A+ BBB rating. Our advisors have sailed on many of the ships they recommend — which means the guidance you receive is personal, not generic.
