Avalon Waterways

For those that want the best river views from their stateroom.

Avalon Waterways has built an outstanding reputation as a luxury river cruise line offering amazing staterooms and attention to detail, especially when it comes to visiting different cities. They operate more than 20 modern ships across Europe, Africa, Asia and South America while sailing some of the most popular rivers in the world including the Rhine, Seine, Danube, Douro, Nile... (let me catch my breath)... Amazon, and even the Mekong. They don't operate in North America, but for how big they've become in the last few years, I wouldn't be surprised to see them in the Mississippi soon enough.

Avalon's main feature are what they call the Panorama Suites, regarded as some of the best (and most beautiful) staterooms ever created for river cruising. Starting at 200 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows that transform into open-air balconies, these suites feature beds positioned to glass windows so guests always have the best views around them. This is an idea similar to the Infinite Verandas on Celebrity Cruises, and works amazingly well for a river cruise.

Avalon offers a nearly all-inclusive cruise fare. Your fare covers restaurants, premium wines and spirits during meals and happy hours, soft drinks and specialty coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi and some shore excursions at every port. You have the option to choose the kind of shore excursion you want, by the way, and that might be a bike tour in Rome or simply watching a local performance near the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The good part? Avalon lets you rent their bikes at no additional charge. The bad part? No training wheels are available.

Service is another area where Avalon gets great reviews, with a 3:1 guest-to-crew ratio ensuring that there will always be someone to help you out. Crew members often remember your name by the second day, and shore excursion guides receive great reviews worldwide as well.

Most of their modern ships feature swimming pools, whirlpools, fitness centers, multiple dining venues and lounges with panoramic views. Avalon also has what they call "Avalon After Dark". You probably have heard that entertainment onboard river cruises is basically non-existant at night, right? Avalon does things differently, and offers live music, karaoke, trivia and dance parties once the sun goes down. They also include overnight stays at select ports to really let you explore each city.

Avalon usually attracts retirees and couples in their 60s looking for cultural cruises above all else. This is a great option for travelers that want spacious accommodations and complimentary guided tours over everything else. Do keep in mind that Avalon isn't the best cruise line for children. There are no kids' clubs, most ships lack swimming pools and activities cater 100% to older, mature audiences.

The large number of destinations, combined with unique staterooms and included excursions, positions Avalon as an excellent choice for travelers who want a fun and memorable river cruise. Just remember to eat and sleep well so your energy is recharged once Avalon After Dark kicks off.