Avalon Waterways-an outstanding river cruise choice
- Mary Graham
- Jun 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 8
When it comes to river cruising, finding the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and thoughtful service is key—and Avalon Waterways delivers all that and more. As a river cruise expert with Trips by Mary, I’ve seen firsthand how Avalon’s unique approach to river cruising creates an unforgettable travel experience.
Here’s why Avalon Waterways might be the perfect fit for your next river journey:

🛏️ Panorama Suites: Designed for the Views
What feature sets Avalon Waterways apart? First, their innovative Panorama Suites®. These spacious staterooms feature beds that face the floor-to-ceiling windows. You can wake up to castles, vineyards, and riverside villages drifting by—without even lifting your head from the pillow.
With Open-Air Balconies (essentially a full wall of glass that opens wide), these rooms blur the line between indoors and out. This feature offers an immersive experience of the ever-changing scenery.
It’s a feature you didn’t know you needed—until you have it. And once you do, it’s hard to cruise any other way. I loved my cabin and opened that Panorama Window to enjoy the fresh air and views several times on the Avalon Passion.
🌟 Friendly, Personalized Service
From your Cruise Director to the dining staff and housekeeping crew, I have found Avalon’s service to be consistently excellent. The team takes pride in delivering warm, professional hospitality with attention to detail. They ensure you feel both pampered and at ease. We had a blast during our time onboard the Avalon Passion. So much so that we are still talking about it months later and have another cruise booked!
Avalon also keeps things relaxed onboard. There are no rigid dress codes or stuffy formal nights—just a casually elegant atmosphere. You can enjoy every moment your way.
🍷 Delicious, Locally Inspired Dining with Choices
Dining with Avalon is an experience in itself. You’ll enjoy:
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Regionally inspired menus that change with the itinerary.
Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
Daily tea time with finger sandwiches, cakes, and small desserts in the Panorama Lounge. (See my video below)
They also offer lighter fare, vegetarian options, and healthy dishes under their Avalon Fresh® program. This program is perfect for guests who want wellness-focused meals without sacrificing flavor.
Some guests appreciate the opportunity for a less formal Bistro Lunch and Dinner, offered in the Panorama Lounge. Avalon also does a fun cookout on the Sky Deck. We had a lovely one docked in Belgrade with burgers, salads, fries, and, of course, their amazing house-made ice creams!
✅ Generous Inclusions for a Worry-Free Vacation
Avalon cruises include many thoughtful extras:
Daily guided excursions, including immersive Active & Discovery options.
Onboard enrichment and local entertainment.
Wi-Fi throughout the ship.
Gratuities included on select sailings.
Wine, beer, and soft drinks at meals.
Sparkling wine at breakfast. 🥂
With so much included, your trip feels effortless—just the way it should.
🧭 Active & Discovery Cruises: Choose Your Adventure
One of Avalon’s standout features is their Active & Discovery itineraries. This option offers guests more ways to explore with excursions tailored to different interests and activity levels.
Choose from:
🚴♀️ Active experiences like kayaking, biking, and hiking.
🎨 Discovery options like painting classes, wine tastings, and culinary tours.
🏰 Classic guided tours for a deeper dive into history and culture.
Whether you want to climb a castle wall, paddle through a vineyard valley, or stroll with a local historian, Avalon makes it possible.
🌍 Ready to Cruise with Avalon?
Avalon Waterways offers the perfect mix of luxury, adventure, and comfort. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Europe (and beyond!) in a relaxed, enriching way.
As your trusted river cruise expert at Trips by Mary, I can help you select the best itinerary, sailing date, and stateroom for your travel style. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, I’ll make sure your journey is seamless from start to finish.

Let’s plan your dream river cruise with Avalon Waterways—get in touch today! Make an appointment for a Discovery Call here: https://calendly.com/trips-by-mary/discoverymeeting
Email: mary@tripsbymary.com
Phone: 919-817-4081
Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits
With all of these incredible options, planning your river cruise with Avalon Waterways will be an unforgettable experience. Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Avalon has it all. Every aspect is tailored to meet your needs, ensuring a memorable journey. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and luxurious amenities. Start your adventure today!
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