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One of life's greatest feelings is the anticipation of an upcoming trip. After all, a vacation is a dream that you’ve turned into a reality – so when the moment finally approaches, you can't help but get excited. If you’re reading this, we know that you’re not an average traveler, so why settle for an average vacation? You deserve the best. One of the best all-inclusive river cruise lines is Avalon Waterways. Here’s five reasons why…
1. Panorama Suites
So much of what makes a river cruise a wonderful vacation is the captivating views of riverside sights as you float along. Avalon has made this a huge emphasis on their suite ships by providing the ‘widest views in river cruising’. You can expect wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in every Panorama Suite that open to become a balcony comparable to no other river cruise line. Over 80% of their cabins on Suite Ships are at least 200-square feet giving you about 30% more space than the industry standard. Avid cruisers will tell you this extra space and comfort is invaluable, and once you experience it firsthand you may never want to cruise another way.
Related: Save on the Most Comfortable River Suites in Cruising
In addition to the beautiful views in Panorama Suites, Avalon faces their beds towards the windows. This simple innovation that lets you enjoy the finest views in Europe from the comfort of your own bed, is quite genius. Enjoy ever-changing views in luxury as you drift off on your dream vacation.
2. Customized Shore Excursions
Whether you like to paddle a canoe or paint a canvas Avalon makes sure to offer something for every traveler with their Avalon Choice excursion program. They divide the land exploration into three different categories, so guests have a more diverse range of options to choose from.
‘Classic’ excursions are focused on the history and heritage of local sites with a knowledgeable insider guiding you along. ‘Discovery’ excursions are more hands on. Think interactive activities that usually showcase local cuisine or artists design to inspire and captivate. ‘Active’ excursions are for the guests who want to move around and explore during a hike, bike ride, or kayak adventure with an Adventure Host there with you every step of the way.
3. Personalized Accommodations
Your dream vacation continues when you come back onboard to luxurious amenities and services. Prepare for a pampering experience from your dinner plate to your state-of-the art cabin amenities. On select ships and itineraries, you can start your day with complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast, enjoy cappuccinos throughout the day and sample tastings of local delicacies. The Avalon Waterways beverage package does vary by the itinerary you choose; however, you can look forward to beverages like complimentary wine, beer and spirits (including local beer and spirits), soft drinks, and tea.
Avalon’s emphasis on the little details like your choice of firmness in their Comfort Collection beds and pillows, the plushest of towels, and L'Occitane bath products atop marble countertops make you feel like royalty as you sail. Plus, enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, free bicycles for use in select ports, and a bubbling whirlpool on the Sky Deck awaiting your return.
4. Destination-Inspired Cuisine
In every bite of the food you try, you’ll have a taste of each region you visit as your chefs strive to provide local and fresh ingredients, even more so through the Avalon Fresh program. Menus do change seasonally and by itinerary, but you can look forward to four-course meals including appetizers, soups and salads, entrees, and desserts. Your meal continues with a choice of specialty cheeses and coffee.
Tip: Avalon Waterways also keeps in mind diverse diets and offers excellent options for those that prefer vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-free meals.
Which ships offer Avalon Fresh, vegetarian/vegan options, and happy hour?
- Avalon Tranquility II
- Avalon Artistry II
- Avalon Vista
- Avalon Affinity
- Avalon Imagery II
- Avalon Envision
5. Intimate and Luxurious Ships
Avalon Cruise ships are intimate and boutique in size, which will bring you closer to your destination so that you can enjoy a not-so-average cruise experience. You don’t have to worry about huge crowds or long lines with Avalon. Guests typically develop a comradery during these voyages as they share experiences, make conversation over drinks, or participate in onshore excursions together.
The small ship experience is one that every traveler should experience at least once and with our deals, you can book your sailing at a great price.
Where will your next dream vacation be to? Will it be a Europe River Cruise? An Asia River Cruise? Your adventure starts now. Find the best Avalon Waterways deals here.
Related: Discover Which Relaxing Destination is Best for You