The Avalon Waterways Difference

1369

The views on a river cruise can transform the way you travel forever.  While your ship stops in fascinating cities and villages along the way, you are also privy to the beautiful countryside.  This unspoiled view is what makes an Avalon Waterways river cruise such a memorable way to discover some of the world’s most exotic locales.  There is simply no more peaceful way to sample the charming cities and awe-inspiring sights of Europe, China, Egypt and the Galapagos Islands.

One journey and you will understand why Avalon Waterways sets the standard in river cruising.

The Avalon difference begins with the youngest fleet.  With ships averaging just over 3 years in age, you know you will be consistently sailing upon the newest ships on the European waterways.  By regularly adding new vessels built for today’s traveler, Avalon is able to consistently offer you the most inspired designs, innovative technologies, and key features and services throughout their entire fleet.  The Avalon Panorama became the first ship to offer suites featuring wall to wall panoramic windows and open air balconies.  The Avalon Visionary and Avalon Vista premier in 2012, and the Avalon Artistry II in 2013.

Avalon offers modern, contemporary design.  Since the ships are so new, all of them feature state-of-the-art design, technology and modern amenities such as wireless internet access throughout the ship, flat screen tv’s in the staterooms, mini-bars and hotel style beds with Egyptian linens.

Float with a view.  More than 90% of the staterooms in the Avalon fleet have panoramic sliding glass doors and French balconies, enhancing the view of the landscape from individual staterooms.

Special details and extra touches.  Since its inception, Avalon has offered fine dining with a choice of unlimited complimentary wine. Now beer and soda are also offered at dinner, setting the standard for dining on European river cruise vacations.  Royal deck guests may order continental breakfast the night before and have it delivered to their stateroom.  Premium L’Occitane bath products and the new Comfort Collection by Avalonbedding are found fleet wide. Other comfort touches have been included such as bottled water and fully stocked mini-bars.

For 2012, MyAvalon allows cruisers to personalize their onboard experience by choosing optional excursions, special requests and even celebration and drink packages ahead of time.  Royal Suites will also include complimentary iPads, and while onboard our European vessels, enjoy Avalon Movie Night. It’s the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day’s sights while watching popular films themed to your destination.

Because Avalon Waterways River Cruises are part of the Globus Family of Brands, all land programs which are included in the cruise price are arranged by Globus tours, the leader in escorted travel for more than 80 years.  Europe land programs are what Globus does best, complete with audio headset for all Europe shore excursions.  No matter what destination you choose, your shore excursions will be enlightening and rewarding.

Previous articleHidden Treasures in Florence, Italy
Next articleTSA Fast Lane for Security at Airports
Sue Lobo
Sue Lobo is a four-time Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist (2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026) and Senior Travel Advisor at Atlas Travel Center, one of the most decorated travel agencies in the United States. With more than 35 years of experience in the travel industry, Sue has planned, booked, and personally accompanied trips for thousands of clients — from first-time cruisers to seasoned luxury travelers who have circled the globe multiple times. Sue's areas of deep expertise include ocean and river cruising, European tours, group travel coordination, luxury travel, honeymoon planning, and family vacation design. She is a CLIA-certified cruise specialist and works within an agency that holds IATA and ARC accreditation and maintains an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Over her career, Sue has been involved in more than 30,000 bookings and has personally coordinated over 200 travel groups — from faith-based group cruises and HBCU alumni trips to women's retreats, family reunions, and corporate incentive travel. What sets Sue apart is not just the credentials — it is the firsthand experience behind them. Sue has personally traveled to more than 20 countries across three continents, including Cuba, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and throughout Europe. She has sailed on dozens of cruise ships across nearly every major line, walked the river cruise routes she recommends, and eaten at the restaurants she suggests to clients. Her recommendations come from personal experience, not brochures. In addition to advising clients, Sue writes extensively about travel for The Traveler's Atlas blog — covering everything from cruise line comparisons and overtourism trends to destination guides and practical travel tips. Her writing is grounded in the same expertise she brings to every client conversation: honest, specific, and built on decades of real-world travel experience. Sue is based in the United States and available to help travelers plan cruises, European tours, group trips, river cruises, honeymoons, family vacations, and more. To work with Sue, contact Atlas Travel Center at atlastravelweb.com.