The Essential Cruise Shop’s Guide to Avalon Waterways 2025

In This Guide

A Brief History
The Avalon Waterways Fleet
Accommodation and Service Levels
What's Included in Your Fare
Loyalty Programme: Journey Club
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Dining Options
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Avalon Waterways for Solo Travellers
Dress Code
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
Official Websites
Required Travel Documents
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
Food Policy
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Avalon Waterways
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
Additional Resources
Disclaimer
Affiliate Disclosure

Avalon Waterways is a leading river cruise line celebrated for its innovative "Suite Ships" and a focus on immersive, upscale travel experiences. As part of the globally recognised Globus family of brands, Avalon excels in providing spacious accommodation with unparalleled panoramic views. Their cruises are tailored for travellers who appreciate comfort, cultural depth, and a rich selection of included shore excursions.

A Brief History

Founded in 2004 as a key division of the Globus family of brands, Avalon Waterways leveraged a travel legacy stretching back to 1928. The company aimed to transform the river cruise industry by focusing on superior guest comfort and distinctive sightseeing opportunities. This built upon Globus's decades of expertise in expertly guided land tours.

The introduction of the Avalon Panorama in 2011 marked a turning point for the brand and the industry. This vessel debuted the signature "Suite Ship" concept, featuring Open-Air Balconies with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows. This design cleverly turns the entire suite into a balcony-like space, with beds strategically angled to face the ever-changing river views.

Today, Avalon continues to expand its fleet of Suite Ships across Europe's rivers, with specialised vessels also navigating waterways in Asia and South America. They have diversified their offerings with "Active & Discovery" cruises, providing a wider choice of excursion styles for every type of traveller. The company also demonstrates a strong commitment to responsible travel through its "Lighthouse Project" sustainability initiatives.

The Avalon Waterways Fleet

Avalon operates a modern and consistent fleet of river cruise ships, renowned for their signature "Suite Ship" design. These vessels prioritise comfort, space, and maximising the stunning views of the landscapes they glide through. The majority of the fleet sails Europe's iconic rivers, with custom-built ships for more exotic destinations.

Avalon View

Launch Date: 2022
Tonnage: Not applicable for river ships
Capacity: 166 passengers
Notable Features: Panorama Suites, Panorama Bistro, Sky Grill, fitness centre

As one of the newest additions, Avalon View represents the latest evolution of the Suite Ship design. It offers a contemporary and elegant atmosphere for exploring the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers. The ship's spacious public areas and focus on scenery make it a flagship of the European fleet.

Avalon Envision

Launch Date: 2019
Tonnage: Not applicable for river ships
Capacity: 166 passengers
Notable Features: Open-Air Balconies, multiple dining venues, Club Lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi

Avalon Envision sails the Danube and is a perfect example of the line's commitment to comfort and choice. Guests can enjoy varied dining from casual to fine dining. The signature Panorama Suites ensure they never miss a moment of the passing scenery.

Avalon Passion

Launch Date: 2016
Tonnage: Not applicable for river ships
Capacity: 166 passengers
Notable Features: Wall-to-wall panoramic windows, Sky Deck with whirlpool, Adventure Center

Designed for the Danube River, Avalon Passion embodies the Suite Ship experience with its focus on light, space, and views. The Adventure Center provides equipment for active excursions. Meanwhile, the Sky Deck offers a relaxing space to watch the world go by.

Avalon Alegria

Launch Date: 2024
Tonnage: Not applicable for river ships
Capacity: 102 passengers
Notable Features: Panorama Suites, Sky Deck pool, custom-built for the Douro

Meaning "happiness" in Portuguese, the Alegria is custom-built to navigate Portugal's stunning Douro River. Its smaller size allows for an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. A pool on the Sky Deck and the signature Open-Air Balconies make it the perfect vessel for soaking in the sun-drenched landscapes.

Avalon Saigon

Launch Date: 2018
Tonnage: Not applicable for river ships
Capacity: 36 passengers
Notable Features: All-suite ship, intimate atmosphere, open-air observation lounge

The Avalon Saigon offers an exceptionally intimate journey along the mighty Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia. As an all-suite ship, every guest enjoys a spacious 245-square-foot Panorama Suite. Its design ensures a personal and comfortable base from which to explore the rich cultures of the region.

Accommodation and Service Levels

Avalon Waterways places a strong emphasis on spacious and view-oriented accommodation, setting a high standard for comfort in river cruising. The innovative design of their staterooms and suites is a cornerstone of the guest experience. Service onboard is attentive, friendly, and professional, aimed at creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Standard Cabins

Located on the lower (Indigo) deck, the Deluxe Staterooms measure approximately 172 square feet. These cabins feature high windows positioned near the ceiling to allow for natural light. While they do not have balconies, they offer excellent value and are appointed with high-quality amenities, a writing desk, and a well-equipped private bathroom.

Suite Categories

The hallmark of Avalon is its Panorama Suites, which make up 80% of the accommodation on their European Suite Ships. These suites are a generous 200 square feet and feature a unique Open-Air Balcony concept. A wall of floor-to-ceiling, retractable glass windows slides open to transform the entire living space into a breezy, open-air lounge.

Exclusive Suite-Level Services

For those seeking more space, the Royal Suites are the top-tier accommodation, measuring an expansive 300 square feet. These suites provide an extra touch of luxury with a separate living area, a larger bathroom, and the signature Open-Air Balcony. While they do not come with exclusive services like butlers or private lounges, the primary benefit is the significant increase in personal space and premium corner locations on the ship.

Accessible Cabins

Avalon Waterways does not have dedicated wheelchair-accessible cabins. However, they can accommodate guests with mobility challenges, providing assistance with collapsible wheelchairs. It is crucial for guests with specific accessibility needs to discuss them with the cruise line at the time of booking to ensure the ship and itinerary are suitable.

What's Included in Your Fare

Avalon Waterways offers a largely inclusive fare, which simplifies budgeting and enhances the onboard experience. Guests can relax knowing that most of their needs are covered from the outset. This approach allows travellers to focus more on the destinations and less on managing daily expenses.

Spacious Outside Accommodation: Every cabin has a view, with most featuring the signature Open-Air Balcony.
All Meals Onboard: This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a choice of dining venues.
Complimentary Beverages: Regional wine, beer, and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner.
Shore Excursions: A selection of daily included excursions is offered, categorised as Classic, Discovery, and Active.
Onboard Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for all guests.
Enrichment Activities: Onboard lectures, local entertainment, and cooking demonstrations are part of the experience.
Gratuities: On European river cruises, all onboard service charges are included in the fare.
Bicycles and Equipment: Use of onboard bicycles and fitness equipment is complimentary.

Loyalty Programme: Journey Club

Avalon Waterways rewards its repeat guests through the Journey Club, a loyalty programme shared across the Globus family of brands. The programme is straightforward, offering benefits as soon as you book your second trip. There are no complex points or tiers to track; the focus is on providing tangible savings for your loyalty.

Journey Club Member

Requirement: Complete one prior trip with Avalon, Globus, Cosmos, or Monograms.
Perks & Benefits:
- A 5% repeat traveller discount on any future Avalon Waterways or Globus tour.
- Special deals and promotions sent exclusively to members throughout the year.
- Onboard recognition from the Cruise Director.

Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.

Pre-Paid Packages Available

Avalon Waterways operates on a largely all-inclusive model, which means the need for pre-paid packages is minimal. Most of the amenities that other cruise lines sell as add-ons are already built into the cruise fare. This simplifies the holiday experience, allowing guests to relax without worrying about extra costs.

Beverage, Internet, and Dining Packages

Beverage Packages: Not offered, as complimentary regional wine, beer, and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner. Cocktails and other drinks can be purchased à la carte.
Internet Packages: Not necessary, as complimentary Wi-Fi access is included for all guests throughout the ship.
Specialty Dining Packages: Not offered, as all dining venues, including the Panorama Bistro and Sky Grill, are complimentary.

Please visit the official Avalon Waterways website for the most current information. This straightforward, inclusive approach is a key feature of the Avalon experience.

Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line's official website.

Dining Options

Dining with Avalon Waterways is a culinary journey that reflects the regions you sail through, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cruise line offers several dining venues and experiences, all of which are included in the fare. The dress code is always relaxed, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere.

The main dining room is the primary venue, offering panoramic windows for continuous scenic views. Avalon's "FlexDining" approach allows guests to choose when and where they dine. For a more casual option, the Panorama Bistro offers lighter fare, and the Sky Grill hosts al fresco lunches in fair weather.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities

Life onboard an Avalon Waterways cruise is designed to be relaxing and enriching, with a focus on the destinations. The atmosphere is sociable and sophisticated, encouraging guests to mingle and enjoy the scenery. The primary entertainment is the ever-changing landscape visible from the ship's panoramic windows and lounges.

During the day, guests can attend informative lectures by the Cruise Director about the history and culture of upcoming ports. In the evenings, the Panorama Lounge is the social hub of the ship. Guests can enjoy cocktails while listening to live music from the resident pianist or authentic cultural performances from local entertainers.

Avalon Waterways for Solo Travellers

Avalon Waterways offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for solo travellers, with a sociable atmosphere that makes it easy to meet fellow guests. The smaller size of the ships and the communal nature of river cruising create a friendly setting. Group excursions and open-seating dining provide natural opportunities for interaction.

Accommodation for Solo Cruisers

Avalon actively caters to solo travellers by waiving or reducing the single supplement on a selection of cruises each year. This makes cruising alone significantly more affordable. While they do not have dedicated single cabins, this promotion allows a solo traveller to occupy a standard double-occupancy stateroom without paying the typical 100% supplement.

Meeting People and Onboard Life

The intimate scale of an Avalon ship fosters a sense of community, making it easy for solo travellers to connect with others. The open-seating policy in the dining room allows you to join different tables and meet new people at every meal. Group shore excursions are another excellent way to socialise, as you explore destinations with like-minded travellers.

Dress Code

The dress code aboard Avalon Waterways is relaxed and casual, reflecting the comfortable atmosphere of river cruising. During the day, guests typically wear sightseeing attire such as shorts or trousers with comfortable walking shoes. It's wise to bring layers and a light waterproof jacket for changing weather conditions during excursions.

In the evenings, the dress code elevates slightly to "smart casual." For men, this means trousers or smart jeans with a collared shirt. For women, outfits like a dress, skirt, or trousers with a blouse are perfectly appropriate. There are no formal nights, so there is no need to pack tuxedos or evening gowns.

Gratuities / Tipping Policy

Avalon Waterways simplifies the tipping process for its guests, especially on its popular European itineraries. For all European river cruises, onboard gratuities for the Cruise Director and crew are pre-paid and included in the cruise fare. This means you do not need to budget for additional tips for the ship's staff.

For cruises in other destinations, such as those on the Mekong, the policy may differ, so it's essential to verify before you travel. While shipboard gratuities are covered in Europe, it is customary to tip local guides and drivers at the end of each shore excursion. This is at your discretion and should reflect your satisfaction with the service.

Embarkation Day Beverage Policy

Avalon Waterways generally permits guests to bring a reasonable amount of their own wine or champagne onboard. This allows you to enjoy a special bottle you may have purchased in a local port. The wine can be consumed in your stateroom without any additional charge.

If you wish to enjoy your personal bottle of wine in one of the ship's public areas, such as the dining room, a corkage fee will typically apply. Bringing other spirits or large quantities of alcohol onboard is generally discouraged. The ship is well-stocked with a wide variety of beverages available for purchase at the bar.

What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View

Guests consistently praise Avalon Waterways for its innovative "Suite Ship" design, particularly the Open-Air Balconies and the river-facing beds. The spaciousness of the Panorama Suites and the stunning, uninterrupted views are frequently highlighted as a major advantage. The quality of the food and the friendly, professional service from the crew also receive high marks.

The variety and quality of the included shore excursions, especially the "Active & Discovery" options, are appreciated for catering to diverse interests. The all-inclusive nature of the European cruises is seen as a significant benefit. This simplifies the travel experience and provides excellent value.

On the other hand, some guests have noted that the complimentary onboard Wi-Fi can be slow, especially when the ship is sailing through remote areas or locks. As is common with all river cruising, ships sometimes have to dock alongside each other, which can temporarily obstruct cabin views. While unavoidable, this is a point of feedback some travellers mention.

Environmental & Sustainability Efforts

Avalon Waterways is deeply committed to sustainable tourism through the Globus family of brands' Lighthouse Project. This project is built on the core values of giving back, conserving resources, and supporting local economies. The company has established a robust framework for its environmental and social responsibilities.

Onboard, Avalon has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, including significant reductions in single-use plastics and the installation of fuel-efficient engines. The culinary teams also focus on sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to reduce food miles. Beyond the ships, the Lighthouse Project partners with over 50 organisations worldwide, such as The Ocean Cleanup and Trees4Travel.

Official Websites

Avalon Waterways provides dedicated websites for its key markets to offer tailored information and booking services. To find the most accurate pricing, itineraries, and policies for your region, it is best to use the official local site. This ensures you have access to relevant promotions and support.

USA Official Website: https://www.avalonwaterways.com/
UK Official Website: https://www.avalonwaterways.co.uk/

Required Travel Documents

Ensuring you have the correct travel documents is your personal responsibility and is critical for a smooth journey. All guests must carry a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the final date of their cruise. This is a strict requirement for most cruise lines, including Avalon Waterways, regardless of the destinations visited.

Warning: A cruise line's passport validity rule can be stricter than that of the countries on the itinerary. For instance, a European country might only require three months of passport validity for entry, but Avalon will enforce its own six-month rule. Guests who fail to meet this standard will be denied boarding without a refund.

You must also secure any necessary visas for the countries on your itinerary before you travel. Check the entry requirements for your specific nationality for every port of call. Failure to present the required visas will result in being denied boarding or being unable to go ashore.

Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)

When travelling with a minor for whom you are not the parent or legal guardian, strict documentation is required. You must carry a notarised letter of consent signed by both of the child's legal parents. This letter should explicitly grant you permission to take the child on the cruise and to authorise emergency medical treatment.

This policy also applies to single parents or family members travelling with a child. A single parent should carry a copy of the child's full birth certificate and, if applicable, documentation of sole custody. A signed consent letter from the non-travelling parent is strongly recommended to avoid any potential issues.

Onboard Safety & Permitted Items

Guest safety is the highest priority on any Avalon Waterways cruise. Upon boarding, all guests are required to participate in a mandatory safety briefing. This ensures everyone is familiar with the ship's safety procedures and their designated muster station.

To maintain a safe environment, certain items are strictly prohibited from being brought onboard. These include weapons, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, and items with heating elements like clothes irons or candles. The operation of personal drones is also forbidden on the ship and in many port areas.

Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy

Guests requiring prescription medications must bring a sufficient supply for the entire duration of their trip, plus extra in case of delays. All medications should be kept in their original, clearly labelled containers and packed in your carry-on luggage. It is also advisable to carry a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor.

The possession and use of illegal substances, including marijuana (even if legal in your home state), is strictly forbidden. Any guest found with prohibited substances will be disembarked at the next port of call at their own expense. The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy in this regard to ensure the safety and legal compliance of the vessel.

Food Policy

The policies regarding bringing food on and off the ship are in place to ensure health and safety standards. Understanding these rules can prevent inconvenience during your travels. Always consult with the ship's crew if you are unsure about a specific item.

Bringing Food Onboard

Guests are generally permitted to bring small quantities of pre-packaged, non-perishable snacks onboard. However, bringing fresh food like fruits, vegetables, or meat products is not allowed. This is to prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Taking Food Off the Ship

For similar health and safety reasons, guests are not permitted to take fresh food from the ship's restaurants or buffets to consume ashore. You may, however, take sealed, pre-packaged items like a box of biscuits with you. This policy helps maintain hygiene standards.

Bringing Food Back from Port

Bringing food back to the ship from a port of call is subject to strict international regulations. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and meat products are almost always prohibited. Sealed, commercially packaged items like chocolates or olive oil are usually permissible.

Current Starting Ports (2025)

Avalon Waterways operates from a variety of well-connected and historically rich cities across the globe. These ports serve as the gateways to their diverse river cruise itineraries. Below are some of the key departure points for the 2025 season.

Danube River: Budapest (Hungary) | Vilshofen (Germany) | Nuremberg (Germany) | Passau (Germany)
Rhine River: Amsterdam (Netherlands) | Basel (Switzerland) | Frankfurt (Germany)
Seine River: Paris (France)
Rhône & Saône Rivers: Lyon (France) | Arles (France)
Douro River: Porto (Portugal)
Mekong River: Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) | Siem Reap (Cambodia)

Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Avalon Waterways

To give you a clearer picture of the Avalon experience, here are three examples of popular itineraries. These routes showcase the variety of cultures, landscapes, and experiences the cruise line offers. Each one is designed to provide deep immersion into the heart of the region.

The Legendary Danube

This quintessential European river cruise is perfect for first-time river cruisers and history enthusiasts alike. It journeys through four countries, showcasing grand capitals, charming villages, and stunning Wachau Valley landscapes. The blend of guided tours and free time makes it a well-balanced and enriching experience.

Best For: Couples, History Buffs, First-Time River Cruisers
Duration: 8 Days
Departure Port: Nuremberg, Germany
Example Ship: Avalon Envision
Typical Ports of Call: Regensburg, Passau, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

Rhine & Rhône Revealed (Northbound)

Ideal for wine lovers and connoisseurs of French culture, this comprehensive journey connects the Mediterranean with the North Sea. It combines the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence with the fairytale castles of the Rhine Gorge. This itinerary offers a deep dive into the art, history, and gastronomy of France and Germany.

Best For: Foodies, Wine Lovers, Experienced Travellers
Duration: 16 Days
Departure Port: Arles, France
Example Ship: Avalon Poetry II
Typical Ports of Call: Avignon, Lyon, Beaune, Cologne, Rüdesheim, Strasbourg, Amsterdam

Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches

This poignant and picturesque itinerary is a must for those interested in art history and World War II. Sailing roundtrip from Paris, it follows the winding Seine River through the heart of Normandy. The itinerary masterfully balances visits to historical landmarks with the beauty of Monet's gardens and charming French towns.

Best For: History Buffs, Art Lovers, Couples
Duration: 8 Days
Departure Port: Paris, France
Example Ship: Avalon Tapestry II
Typical Ports of Call: Vernon (for Giverny), Caudebec-en-Caux, Normandy Beaches, Rouen, Conflans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available for all guests. However, the speed can vary depending on the ship's location, especially when navigating through locks or remote stretches of the river.

2. What power sockets are in the cabins?
Cabins on European ships are equipped with standard European 220V, two-pin outlets. It is recommended to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure your devices are compatible.

3. What currency is used onboard?
The onboard currency for all European river cruises is the Euro (€). All onboard purchases are charged to your shipboard account, which can be settled at the end of the cruise.

4. Can Avalon accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, Avalon can cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free. It is essential to advise the cruise line of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

5. Is smoking permitted on the ships?
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is only permitted in a designated area on the Sky Deck. Smoking is not allowed in any indoor areas, staterooms, or suites.

6. Is there a doctor onboard?
No, river cruise ships do not have a doctor or medical facility onboard. However, the crew is trained in first aid, and medical services can be quickly accessed on shore.

7. Are children allowed on Avalon Waterways?
Yes, but Avalon's cruises are primarily designed for adults. The minimum age for passengers is 8 years old, and there are no dedicated children's facilities onboard.

8. Is there a fitness centre onboard?
Yes, all of Avalon's European Suite Ships have a small fitness centre with equipment such as treadmills and stationary bikes. Many guests also enjoy walking on the Sky Deck.

9. What is the policy on mobility for guests?
Guests must be able to manage a short flight of stairs and walk reasonable distances for shore excursions. The ships are not fully accessible for wheelchairs, so guests should discuss their needs with Avalon before booking.

10. Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?
Guests are permitted to bring a reasonable amount of local wine onboard to enjoy in their suite. A corkage fee will apply if you wish to drink it in the ship's public dining areas or lounges.

A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams

When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:

"Free Cruise" or "Exclusive Offer" Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you've won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced "exclusive" deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for "port taxes," or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line's official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a "limited-time offer" that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer's legitimacy.
Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.

To ensure your journey with Avalon Waterways begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Avalon Waterways directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.

Additional Resources

The following are affiliate links; we will receive a commission for any qualifying orders/bookings at no additional cost to you.

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Tours & Activities

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Other Services

Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
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Yesim: eSIM Provider

Disclaimer

The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.

Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.

We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.

Affiliate Disclosure

Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.

The Essential Cruise Shop’s Guide to Avalon Waterways 2025 | Ships, Dress Code & Tips

Your complete expert guide to the fleet, dining, onboard life, and policies for Avalon Waterways in 2025.