 This week I’ve been privileged to sail with Avalon Waterways, traversing the beautiful Rhine River on a Christmas Markets cruise from Basel, Switzerland, to Amsterdam. This is my sixth European River cruise and my second on the Rhine – also my second time aboard Avalon Waterways. Previously, I’ve sailed on the Danube with both Tauck and Amadeus … the South of France with AMA … the Rhine with Riveria River Cruises … and Tulip Time with Avalon Waterways. It was also my first Christmas Markets river cruise experience. Given my previous experience, I have a pretty solid basis for evaluating and comparing this cruise experience to other providers in the industry. Avalon Waterways is part of the highly-regarded Globus family of brands. Globus is family-owned and has been a trusted provider of travel services since 1928. On this sailing, we were aboard the Avalon Expression, a vessel that entered service in 2014 and accommodates 160 passengers. PUBLIC AREASAs I initially boarded the vessel, I was impressed by its immaculate condition of the vessel. Typical of European river boat design, on Avalon Waterways vessels, you enter into a spacious foyer, with the guest lounge toward the forward part of the ship, and three decks of staterooms located aft of the foyer. The unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides of the spacious lounge allow for exceptional scenery viewing, especially welcomed on the day we sailed through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, an area that boasts the largest concentration of castles anywhere on the planet. The vessel’s expansive Sky Deck spans the entire top level of the vessel. During balmy weather, this is a fabulous hang-out space as well… not so much during our Christmas Market itinerary, as the weather in Europe tends to be quite chilly, at least by Florida standards. Our temps ranged from the upper 30s to the upper 40s during our sailing. ACCOMMODATIONSStaff and crew were outstanding during our cruise, and extremely efficient as well. Onboarding and debarkation were both seamless and perfectly organized. I traveled with my sister on this sailing. We were in Room 204 … a Panorama Suite that was comfortable and well arranged, with beds facing the wall of windows. The room provided space for all our “stuff” and also a very comfortable place for me to work. The counter was spacious and I particularly appreciated that there was a proper chair rather than the little stool that I find on some providers. Closet room was more than adequate and, once unpacked, our luggage was quickly stored out of the way under our beds. The bathroom was also nicely appointed with lovely finishes and, again, more than sufficient space for toiletries and necessities for the two of us. Beds were exceptionally comfy … and even the pillows met with my approval. All in all, I believe any supplier would be hard pressed to exceed the level of comfort and convenience provided aboard my sailing aboard Avalon Waterways Expression. DININGFood onboard Avalon Waterways Expression was very good with choices to suit pretty much every palate. The main dining room provided the three standard meals daily. Breakfast and lunch both offered a varied buffet of options, as well as a fixed menu of table service. (Note: do not miss the Belgian Waffle! I’m not normally much of a waffle gal, but theirs are definitely outstanding, which is something I remembered from my first Avalon Waterways cruise!) Most days, the evening menu included dishes reflective of our itinerary, and the wines served were also reflective of our itinerary. Portion sizes were more than adequate, and others seem to feel likewise. On occasions when tablemates have requested an additional appetizer or dessert, they have cheerfully been accommodated. There were always vegetarian options, and the staff is very judicious about allergies and dietary concerns, always asking about any such requirements when taking orders. SERVICE Service in every area was prompt and cheerful. Our room attendant was outstanding; I felt well above the norm. She had our room turned around every morning while we were at breakfast and actually may have been the very best I’ve had in all my years of cruising – both river and ocean. Front desk, dining, and bar service were also exceptional. Even at times of peak demand, I’ve never had to wait more than a very few minutes for a smiling face to appear to take my order. CHRISTMAS MARKETS ITINERARYAs above indicated, this was my second Rhine sailing and my first time on the Christmas Markets. The ports of call were excellent, especially the afternoon sailing through the famous Rhine Gorge. We were scheduled to depart Basel, but due to a water level issue, we were bused to Breisach for embarkation. Stops included Strasbourg, Ludwigshafen, Mainz, Rudesheim, Koblenz, Cologne, and ending in Amsterdam. Tours are included at each stop with alternative options to accommodate a variety of interests. Walking tours also offer a “gentle walkers” option for those who may have mobility challenges or simply prefer a somewhat slower pace for their tour. This is an exceptional itinerary choice for wine lovers as you sail right through the heart of Germany’s wine region and also touch on the French Alsace wine region. Options for visits to local wineries are included, with regional wines served onboard daily at lunch and dinner. VALUEWith all that is included, river cruises offer the utmost in value and convenience for exploring central Europe. The river cruise experience is second to none other for a seamless and stress-free exploration of these iconic cities and charming villages. If a European river cruise is on your travel bucket list … and if it isn’t it should be! … reach out for a no-obligation quote. Questions? I’m always happy to chat! Touch base with me at 404.735.5774 or email [email protected].
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