Why choose Avalon Waterways?

Where else, but on a river cruise, can you sail gently past spectacular landscapes that unfold before you, and into the heart of Europe’s most exciting cities and towns? And who else, but Avalon Waterways, boasts the most innovative fleet of ships in Europe on which you are treated to the highest level of service and comfort?

Spacious and stylish

With the average age of ship just two years old, the Avalon Waterways fleet breathes luxury and comfort. Elegant, contemporary design, state of the art technology and attention to every detail distinguish our ships from all others. With the largest staterooms in Europe – at least 15% larger than other river cruise ships – every stateroom is light and inviting, and beautifully-appointed.  With ample storage space, most staterooms also feature French balconies and panoramic windows.

2012 celebrates a new era in river cruising with the launch of the Avalon Panorama, the first of our new Suite Ships with Open-Air Balconies™. Our Panorama Suites offer a minimum of 200sq ft of luxurious living space in which you can relax and gaze at the epic views, read a book, or enjoy a romantic meal. With two Royal Suites and 17 deluxe staterooms that are 30% larger than any other small ship in Europe, this is panoramic cruising at its best.

Superior comfort

Generous in space, and spirit, you will discover it is the little details that make the biggest difference; fresh flowers in your stateroom, enhanced soundproofing, marble bathrooms, designer lighting and our unique whisper-quiet engines.

Thoughtful touches that enhance your personal comfort include deluxe woven carpet, l’Occitane toiletries, scented sticks, quality robes and slippers, and our own branded Comfort Collection; a premium-bedding collection that offers you a choice of pillows, mattresses and fine Egyptian linen.

For some, comfort comes in the form of staying in touch with family, friends and colleagues. That is why Avalon Waterways river cruise ships have the latest onboard technology available to guests.  As well as flat-screen satellite television with news and movie channels, all our vessels feature 3G High Speed Internet service.

Unrivalled service

With one staff member to every four guests, no-one is more dedicated to looking after you than Avalon Waterways. From the moment you first speak with one of our travel specialists, to the personal attention of a dedicated Cruise Director, our award-winning service is second to none.

Whether it is the cream in your coffee or the extra pillow on your bed, your every need is anticipated, and met. Our English-speaking crew and expert local guides will ensure that on board and on shore, you want for nothing, and nothing is too much trouble.

If you are planning to celebrate a special occasion with family and friends – perhaps a birthday, anniversary or reunion - talk to our travel specialists who will arrange a truly memorable river cruise.  We will take care of every little detail leaving you and your party nothing to do except share a wonderful time together. 

Beautifully-crafted itineraries

Where do you dream of going to? Avalon Waterways’ choice of more than 25 itineraries and magical Christmas river cruises is as exciting – and enticing – as the journey itself.

The Rhine, the Danube, the Moselle, the Rhône, the Main, the Seine – even the names evoke images of spectacular scenery and enchanting cities.  On Avalon Waterways’ European river cruises, each day brings a new discovery as you explore cities and towns that are among the most beautiful in Europe, including the places you have always dreamed of seeing as well as some unexpected delights.

Flexible options to suit you

Because different guests have different requirements, our river cruise holidays can be arranged to suit your individual needs. You can, if you wish, make your own way to the ship, or choose a no-fly cruise, or add a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. The choice is yours.

The most surprising aspect is the price

No longer is luxury river cruising available only for the chosen few. Our prices offer excellent value and cover just about everything, including a chauffeur-driven home pick-up service, return flights or Eurostar rail travel, taxes and port charges, transfers, all meals on board with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner as well as all-day coffee, tea and fruit juice. All shore excursions with local guides and individual audio headsets are also included, as well as bicycle hire on selected cruises.

The cost of every cruise will also include gratuities for the crew and cruise director, leaving you nothing to think about except enjoying yourself.