The Avalon Waterways River Cruise Experience
The Avalon Waterways Experience
Why Go Cruising?
Away from the hustle and bustle of busy highways, the rivers of Europe, China and Egypt thread through beautiful landscapes. Experienced travellers agree that a river cruise is one of the most enjoyable and hassle-free ways to explore castles, cathedrals historic townships, picturesque villages and pristine nature reserves.
On a river journey, you’ll not only view incredible sights along the famous waterways the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube, Rhone, North Sea, the Yangtze, the Nile and the Galapagos Islands - you’ll also connect with the real destination. It’s a simple way to travel but you’ll be in the heart of each town, not seeing it from afar. Comprehensive sightseeing, your own exploration, and our abundant Enrichment Programs add to your authentic river cruising experience.
You’ll enjoy fine food, impeccable service and lovely scenery while travelling on your river cruiser, with no packing and unpacking or worrying about logistics to waste your vacation time.
There are plenty of opportunities to unwind. Relax on deck, take photos, enjoy conversation with family or new friends. Think of this as your own personal journey of discovery with an abundance of that precious commodity – leisure time.
Why Choose Avalon?
Avalon lets you experience your destination in your own special way.
Now that you know why river cruising should be your next holiday, you need to decide which cruise company to choose. That’s easy. When you travel with Avalon Waterways, you can relax in the knowledge that you’ve made the best choice.
Once you have settled down in your spacious stateroom you are at home for the duration of your cruise. No need for daily unpacking, you can devote your time to exploring the highlights of each exciting stop.
Then return to your floating hotel to relax on the upper deck or enjoy a meal and marvel at the sights while you glide gently by. An Avalon Waterways cruise lets you do it all - see more, experience more and include more free time in your holiday.
All departures are guaranteed.
Because Avalon’s itineraries take advantage of what a location provides, our cruises offer a variety of itineraries, lengths and shore stays. Some itineraries spend every night on board the ship while others have beginning and/or ending nights on shore.
Europe
From the bustling cities steeped with history and culture to some of the most quaint townships and villages in the world, Europe is the quintessential river cruising destination. Avalon Waterways lets you discover all the major river systems including the Rhine, the Moselle, the Main, the Danube, the Rhône and now the Black Sea.
Egypt
The land of the Great Pyramids of Giza, The tomb of Tutankhamun, the Great Temple of Karnak and the enormous Abu Simbel. Egypt during its peak was the greatest ancient civilisation of its time, and the mysteries of the past still hold a very significant presence today. Avalon Waterways is the perfect way to experience all this plus more with two amazing itineraries.
China
China is a land of continual intrigue from the Great Wall of China and the terracotta warriors to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. With Avalon Waterways you’ll discover the major capitals and the allure of the Yangtze River as well as the colossal Three Gorges Dam. New for 2009 Avalon has introduced an itinerary including Mongolia.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the world’s most amazing wildlife. The marine iguana, sea lions, giant tortoises’, penguins and flamingos all inhabit this small cluster of islands and provided Charles Darwin much of the inspiration behind his theory on evolution. Avalon Waterways offers two exciting cruises.
The Avalon Experience
Now that you know why river cruising should be your next holiday, you need to decide which cruise company to choose. Thats easy, When you travel with Avalon Waterways, you can relax in the knowledge that you’ve made the best choice.
Newest Ships
Avalon sets a new standard in river cruising Europe’s newest ships; you cruise in amazing, one-of-a-kind travel comfort. Sleek and elegant, they are part of a new generation of river cruisers, with state-of-the-art technology. These ships offer larger accommodations with hotel-style beds, private facilities, satellite television, and much more, including email or internet access, and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors in many staterooms. Travellers will enjoy a fitness centre, hair salon and massage services.
The Most Enriching Experiences
Our Enrichment Program is among the best in river cruising. Experienced local guides will take you on sightseeing tours of wonderful towns and cities, plus you can spend the evening on shore, if the schedule permits. In addition to fascinating sightseeing on each itinerary, you can choose from a few optional outings, and there’s always time to make your own discoveries as well. Back on board, you’ll enjoy interactive presentations with area experts, wine tastings, local entertainment, and more. Look on each cruise itinerary page to see the Included Features and Special Highlights listed for each cruise.
Created for the English Speaking Market
These new ships are built for the English Speaking Market, with non-smoking interiors and English speaking crew. They feature larger staterooms than most other river cruise vessels with comfortable beds and large windows to view the passing scene. Meals are European cuisine tailored to western tastes with coffee and tea available at no extra charge throughout the day. The Enrichment Program is geared towards those that like to travel with lively itineraries, time for individual discovery, and onboard entertainment.
Fine Dining
Whether you savour time-tested recipes or experiment more boldly, with Avalon you’ll taste the true flavours of Europe, Egypt and China. Meals enjoyed in the company of your travelling companions are a major part of your cruise experience. On Avalon’s ships, you’ll enjoy open seat dining with one sitting, wine included with all onboard dinners, and panoramic views from your restaurant.
Quality Hotels
On several itineraries, you’ll either begin or end your experience with a stay on land. We understand the importance of hotel quality to your holiday; that’s why any hotels included in your itinerary are rated first class (F) or above (SF). Look for the exact ratings on the itinerary pages.
Unbeatable Value
We include all the main features of a destination without extra cost. Our volume buying power saves you money. And we handle all the logistics and details, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your cruise. Plus we provide all meals on board, a rich land excursion program and much more!