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Avalon Waterways River Cruises

About Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Avalon Waterways is a river cruise company that focuses on meaningful travel and global respect. It began with simple boat rides in 1928 and has grown into a trusted name in river cruising. As part of the Swiss family-owned Globus group, Avalon believes in caring for the world, its cultures, and its people. They want travelers to feel a deep connection with the places they visit, not just enjoy the views. Avalon takes steps to reduce its impact on the environment and supports traditions across the globe. With nearly 100 years of experience, the company continues to help guests create lasting memories on every journey.

Avalon Waterways officially started in 2004 with one ship, Avalon Artistry. The next year, Avalon Poetry joined the fleet. Since then, the company has expanded to rivers across Europe, Asia, and South America. Today, they operate cruises on famous rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Mekong, Yangtze, Amazon, and Ganges. Avalon offers modern ships, scenic views, and award-winning service. In 2019, it was named “Best European River line,” showing its strong reputation in the cruise world. As a member of CLIA since 2009, Avalon Waterways continues to grow while offering thoughtful, well-planned trips for curious travelers.

Highlights: Panorama Lounge, Club Lounge, Cooking Demonstrations, Movie Nights, Sky Deck, Aft Lounge, Fitness Center, Hot Tub, Live Entertainment and more.

Avalon Waterways is a river cruise company that focuses on meaningful travel and global respect. It began with simple boat rides in 1928 and has grown into a trusted name in river cruising. As part of the Swiss family-owned Globus group, Avalon believes in caring for the world, its cultures, and its people. They want travelers to feel a deep connection with the places they visit, not just enjoy the views. Avalon takes steps to reduce its impact on the environment and supports traditions across the globe. With nearly 100 years of experience, the company continues to help guests create lasting memories on every journey.

Avalon Waterways officially started in 2004 with one ship, Avalon Artistry. The next year, Avalon Poetry joined the fleet. Since then, the company has expanded to rivers across Europe, Asia, and South America. Today, they operate cruises on famous rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Mekong, Yangtze, Amazon, and Ganges. Avalon offers modern ships, scenic views, and award-winning service. In 2019, it was named “Best European River line,” showing its strong reputation in the cruise world. As a member of CLIA since 2009, Avalon Waterways continues to grow while offering thoughtful, well-planned trips for curious travelers.

Highlights: Panorama Lounge, Club Lounge, Cooking Demonstrations, Movie Nights, Sky Deck, Aft Lounge, Fitness Center, Hot Tub, Live Entertainment and more.

Avalon Waterways Cruises – Quick Info
Avalon Saigon Treasure of Galapagos Avalon Artistry II
Most Recommended Avalon Waterways Cruise Ships

Step onto Avalon’s top ships, built for comfort, style, and great views. Each one brings a smooth trip with local flavor.

More Avalon Waterways River Cruise Ships
Europe South America Asia
Top Avalon Waterways Cruise Destinations

Cruise through peaceful European rivers, pass old towns and see the pretty countryside. Avalon takes you to spots full of charm and history.

Amsterdam London Ho Chi Minh City
Top Ports for Avalon Waterways Cruises

Walk through busy markets, enjoy local food, and soak in the views. Avalon ports give you real moments in great places.

Avalon Waterways Cruises Experience Gallery
Voyage Duration
Select Cruise Length
These shorter cruises are great if you’ve got limited time. You’ll still see a lot and enjoy every day on board.
A week-long trip gives you time to settle in, enjoy the views, and visit a few different towns along the river.
With more days, you’ll visit more places, enjoy slower mornings, and have time to try out extra experiences along the way.
These longer cruises let you see more of Europe at a relaxed pace. You’ll get to know the places you visit.

Avalon Waterways Cruise Booking

Book an Avalon Waterways cruise for a peaceful trip through scenic rivers. Enjoy tasty meals, guided shore visits, friendly service, and cozy staterooms. Spend quiet days on the deck, visit charming towns, and make simple moments feel special with your favorite people.
3656 Itineraries Found
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5 Nights | Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Impression

5 Nights | Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Impression
Avalon Waterways

Avalon Impression

Vilshofen Budapest

5 Nights
Vilshofen | Linz | Wachau Valley | Vienna | Bratislava | Budapest **

Cruise Deals from Vilshofen to Budapest

Lowest Rate*
  • Oceanview $2,199.00*
  • Suite $3,306.00*
From USD $2,199.00* USD $439.80* / night(s) Includes taxes and fees*
What's Included?

5 Nights | Eastern Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Expression

5 Nights | Eastern Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Expression
Avalon Waterways

Avalon Expression

Budapest Vienna

5 Nights
Budapest | Bratislava | Melk | Vienna **

Cruise Deals from Budapest to Vienna

Lowest Rate*
  • Oceanview $2,274.00*
  • Suite $3,452.00*
From USD $2,274.00* USD $454.80* / night(s) Includes taxes and fees*
What's Included?

5 Nights | Eastern Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Imagery II

5 Nights | Eastern Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Imagery II
Avalon Waterways

Avalon Imagery II

Budapest Vienna

5 Nights
Budapest | Bratislava | Melk | Vienna **

Cruise Deals from Budapest to Vienna

Lowest Rate*
  • Oceanview $2,374.00*
  • Suite $3,624.00*
From USD $2,374.00* USD $474.80* / night(s) Includes taxes and fees*
What's Included?

4 Nights | Western Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Illumination

4 Nights | Western Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Illumination
Avalon Waterways

Avalon Illumination

Frankfurt Basel

4 Nights
Frankfurt | SPEY | Strasbourg | Breisach | Basel **

Cruise Deals from Frankfurt to Basel

Lowest Rate*
  • Oceanview $2,406.00*
  • Suite $3,492.00*
From USD $2,406.00* USD $601.50* / night(s) Includes taxes and fees*
What's Included?

5 Nights | Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Illumination

5 Nights | Europe | Avalon Waterways | Avalon Illumination
Avalon Waterways

Avalon Illumination

Budapest Vilshofen

5 Nights
Budapest | Bratislava | Vienna | KREM | Linz | Vilshofen **

Cruise Deals from Budapest to Vilshofen

Lowest Rate*
  • Oceanview $2,414.00*
  • Suite $3,699.00*
From USD $2,414.00* USD $482.80* / night(s) Includes taxes and fees*
What's Included?

Avalon Waterways Adventures Gallery

Embark on a visual journey through the captivating experiences awaiting you with Avalon Waterways. Our Adventures Gallery showcases the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unparalleled comfort you'll discover on our river cruises, inviting you to envision your next unforgettable voyage.
Skydeck Game
Dining Room
Observation Lounge
Wine

FAQ for Avalon Waterways River Cruise Line

Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands, a well-known travel company based in Switzerland. The brand focuses on river cruising and has built a reputation for offering upscale, scenic cruises along major rivers in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa. Avalon combines small-ship comfort with immersive shore excursions and modern amenities.

The oldest ships still sailing in the Avalon Waterways fleet include the Avalon Panorama and Avalon Vista, both launched in the early 2010s.

  • Avalon Panorama: Debuting in 2011, this was the first Suite Ship® in the Avalon fleet and introduced the brand’s signature Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • Avalon Vista: Launched in 2012, Avalon Vista followed in Panorama’s footsteps with the same spacious suite layout and modern onboard experience.

Recent additions to the Avalon fleet include ships like the Avalon View and Avalon Envision.

  • Avalon View: Launched in 2022, this Suite Ship® features open-air balconies, wall-to-wall panoramic windows, and a focus on relaxed luxury with personalized service.
  • Avalon Alegria: The Avalon Alegria launched in April 2024 on Portugal’s Douro River, bringing wide Panorama Suites and Avalon’s signature style to this new route.

All of Avalon’s Suite Ships offer a similar standard of service and amenities, so the "best" ship often depends on the itinerary and personal preferences. Ships like Avalon View, Avalon Impression, and Avalon Panorama are often praised for their spacious Panorama Suites, floor-to-ceiling windows, and stylish design. With fewer passengers than larger ocean ships, all Avalon vessels provide a quiet, intimate, and relaxed river cruise experience.

To book a group cruise with Avalon, visit CruiseBooking.com or contact us. Group bookings often come with added perks like discounted fares, private excursions, and onboard amenities crafted to group interests. Avalon can assist with custom arrangements for reunions, themed cruises, or special events, making the process smooth and flexible.

Avalon Waterways is best known for its Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that turn the entire room into a viewing platform. The cruise line focuses on Active & Discovery excursions, allowing guests to explore destinations at their own pace through hiking, biking, tastings, and guided tours. Its small ships sail along iconic rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and Mekong, offering a relaxed atmosphere with personalized service, locally inspired cuisine, and plenty of scenic cruising time.

An Avalon cruise includes accommodations in spacious Panorama Suites (on most ships), all onboard meals with regional wines and beers at lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions with options for classic, active, or discovery experiences, onboard enrichment programs, complimentary Wi-Fi, gratuities, and beverages like tea, coffee, soft drinks, and sparkling wine at breakfast.

Avalon Waterways offers several types of staterooms and suites across its fleet, with a focus on comfort and views. Most ships feature Panorama Suites, which include wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open to create a full open-air balcony. These suites are larger than the industry standard and offer beds that face the windows for better views. Deluxe Staterooms and Royal Suites are also available, all including plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms.

Dining on Avalon Waterways ships is relaxing and regionally inspired. Guests can enjoy meals in the Panorama Dining Room, which features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and open seating. The Panorama Bistro offers light bites in a casual setting, while the Sky Grill (on select ships) provides outdoor dining with scenic views. Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and Avalon Fresh® menu options are available for those who prefer healthy choices.

While Avalon Cruises focuses on the destinations, there’s still plenty of enrichment onboard. Guests can enjoy live music in the lounge, cooking demonstrations, and guest lectures related to the regions visited. Some itineraries include local performers and cultural shows. Avalon also partners with local guides and experts to offer deeper insight into the ports of call through onboard talks and guided excursions.

Avalon Waterways offers a wellness-focused experience with fitness centers on each ship equipped with cardio and strength-training machines. Daily stretching and yoga classes are led by a dedicated onboard Wellness Host. Guests can also take advantage of walking tours and active shore excursions like biking or hiking. Massage services are available, and there’s a hair salon on most ships.

Avalon stands out with its innovative Panorama Suites that face the water, offering a unique open-air balcony experience. Its smaller ships provide a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere with fewer passengers. The focus is on destination immersion, customizable excursions through the Avalon Choice® program, and wellness through active excursion options and healthy dining. The cruise experience is designed to be quiet, scenic, and flexible.

Yes, Avalon Waterways includes many extras in its cruise fares. Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, regional wine and beer with lunch and dinner, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas, and daily excursions led by local experts. Gratuities for cruise staff are often included, depending on the itinerary. Airport transfers are also part of the package when airfare is booked through Avalon.

Avalon ships are equipped with up-to-date technology for guest comfort. Each stateroom includes a flat-screen TV with movies and entertainment, along with individual climate control. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. In public areas, guests can access a small internet corner, and daily programs are shared digitally or through the in-room TV system.

The cost of an Avalon Waterways cruise depends on several factors, including the itinerary, trip duration, cabin category, and when you book. Prices reflect Avalon’s upscale, river-focused offerings and typically range higher than mainstream river cruise options. For the most accurate and current pricing, we recommend checking directly with us at CruiseBooking.com.

Avalon Waterways offers a highly inclusive cruise experience. The fare generally covers accommodations, all onboard meals, regional wine and beer with lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions, gratuities for ship staff, Wi-Fi access, and port charges. Transfers and airport transportation are also included if air is booked through Avalon. Many itineraries also offer Avalon Choice® excursions and wellness activities at no extra cost.

While Avalon covers many essentials, there are some optional services and items that come with an added charge. These include premium alcoholic beverages, optional excursions beyond the daily included tours, spa treatments (if available), laundry services, and purchases from the onboard boutique. Travel insurance and airfare (unless part of a package) are also additional.

Yes, Avalon frequently runs special promotions, such as early booking discounts, free or reduced airfare, and limited-time savings on select sailings. Travelers may also find exclusive deals through travel advisors or partner sites. For the latest offers and available discounts, visit CruiseBooking.com.

Avalon Waterways is positioned as a premium river cruise provider. Compared to some other river cruise lines, their pricing reflects a blend of upscale service, spacious cabins, and many built-in inclusions. While fares might be higher than entry-level cruise options, the value-added features, like excursions, drinks with meals, and gratuities, can make the overall experience more cost-effective.

Avalon is known for transparent pricing with few unexpected charges. Still, it’s wise to plan for optional expenses like upgraded shore excursions, premium drinks, onboard shopping, and any pre- or post-cruise hotel stays. Taxes, port fees, and fuel surcharges are typically included in the advertised fare but should be verified at the time of booking.

Avalon Waterways follows a tiered cancellation policy based on how close to departure the cancellation is made:

  • From the Final Payment Date up to 30 days before departure: 50% of the total fare is charged
  • From 29 to 1 day before departure: 80% of the total fare is charged
  • On the day of departure or later: 100% of the total fare is charged

Yes, you can request changes to your Avalon Waterways reservation, such as switching dates or upgrading your stateroom. These changes are subject to availability and may involve additional charges. The sooner you request a change, the better your chances of avoiding higher fees. For accurate guidance, contact CruiseBooking.com to review your options and any applicable charges.

Refunds depend on when you cancel your trip. Canceling early usually means a partial refund, though the $250* deposit is typically non-refundable. As your departure date gets closer, the cancellation penalties increase and may reach 100% of the fare. Be sure to review Avalon’s cancellation terms and speak with CruiseBooking.com to understand how much of your payment is refundable.

If Avalon Waterways cancels your trip, they usually offer a full refund or the chance to reschedule your cruise. They may also offer incentives such as future cruise credits or discounts on a later voyage. Avalon or your booking partner will contact you directly with available options and help guide you through the process.

Yes, you can cancel due to illness or emergency. If you purchased travel insurance, it may cover these situations and help you recover some or all of the cruise cost. Make sure to check the terms of your policy and file your claim as soon as possible. Without insurance, Avalon’s standard cancellation penalties will apply.
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Image Source: Avalon Waterways River Cruises and Freepik