Avalon Waterways is a great choice for:
- Travelers seeking a luxurious river cruise experience
- Guests who value spacious, elegant staterooms
- Those interested in exploring unique destinations that include complimentary excursions and amazing tour guides
Avalon Waterways may not be the best fit for:
- Guests traveling with children
- Those looking for a cruise in North America
Avalon Waterways is designed for travelers who wish to explore the world’s most popular (and beautiful) rivers while enjoying some of the finest staterooms at sea. Since 2004, this distinguished river cruise line has curated millions of journeys aboard a fleet of more than 20 ships sailing through Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Renowned for its attentive service, exceptional cuisine, and elegantly appointed panoramic staterooms, Avalon offers a modern fleet that easily rivals the sophistication of AmaWaterways.
Before we move on, remember that you can always reach out to Famvia by clicking the Request a Quote button. It’s completely free to contact us, and booking through us never costs you a penny more. In fact, our travel advisors often have access to exclusive offers and special promotions you won’t find elsewhere. As river cruise specialists with years of experience working alongside brands like AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines, Viking, and more, we’d be delighted to guide you in planning your journey with Avalon Waterways.
Avalon Waterways does not currently operate within the United States, but its ships sail to some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, including the Rhine, the Seine, the Nile, and the Amazon. The experience is nearly all-inclusive, as is customary with luxury river cruising. Guests enjoy complimentary gourmet dining, premium wines and spirits served during meals and evening happy hours, as well as soft drinks, specialty coffees, and refreshments available throughout the day. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also included, so you can always browse social media and send beautiful pictures to your family and friends when you are far away near the Eiffel Tower or the Sphinx.
Another big perk is that a curated selection of shore excursions is also included at every port of call, allowing guests to immerse themselves in each destination at no additional cost. Travelers may choose the pace that best suits their style, from leisurely experiences such as a culinary journey through Paris to more adventurous pursuits like hiking in the Galápagos next to giant turtles and all kinds of birds. The inclusion of these excursions within the cruise fare adds tremendous value, while those seeking something even more tailored can opt for premium excursions designed to showcase unique aspects of each city.
Avalon’s ships are sleek, contemporary, and beautifully designed. Many feature heated swimming pools, multiple dining venues, and elegant lounges that offer beautiful views of the passing landscapes. Most vessels are also equipped with fitness centers and whirlpools, perfect for those that want to relax… which is basically everyone, let’s be honest. Paired with a top notch service and an impressive guest-to-crew ratio of 3:1, guests can expect a level of personalized care that ensures every journey feels truly unique. Reviews consistently praise the crew, noting not only their professionalism and efficiency but also their warmth and genuine hospitality that make each voyage feel special.
One of Avalon Waterways’ true hallmarks is its staterooms. Standard accommodations begin at a generous 172 square feet, but it is the Panorama Suites - starting at 200 square feet - that truly set Avalon apart. Widely regarded as some of the finest suites in river cruising, they feature floor-to-ceiling windows that transform into an open-air balcony, offering truly beautiful, close views of your surroundings. Guests in these suites also enjoy little extras that make a big difference, like complimentary room service for every meal and even the option to choose their preferred mattress style, ranging from ultra-soft to extra firm. Personally, I’d go with extra firm… my back would thank me later.
So, who is Avalon Waterways best suited for? Like most luxury river cruise lines, the majority of guests tend to be retirees and couples in their 60s who are looking to relax while discovering the world in comfort. Life onboard is generally for those that want nothing but relax, though Avalon does offer its own version of nightlife through “After Dark” activities. These range from live performances in the main lounge to lively dance parties that carry on into the evening. The line also includes overnight stays at select ports, giving guests the chance to dive deeper into local culture and explore cities at a more relaxed pace.
When it comes to pricing, Avalon Waterways cruises begin at around $2,400 per guest, though most travelers should expect to spend between $3,000 and $4,000 for an entry-level Deluxe Stateroom. More exotic itineraries, such as the Nile, typically start at $4,500, while a bucket-list Galápagos sailing begins at about $6,500.
Avalon Waterways Reviews
The Good
Panorama Suites: One of the standout features of Avalon Waterways is the Panorama Suite, and it’s not even the most expensive option on board (that distinction goes to the Royal Suites). These suites boast the industry’s only open-air balconies with the widest-opening windows in cruising, with beds thoughtfully positioned to face the view. Starting at 200 square feet, the suites are spacious and cozy, featuring exceptionally comfortable beds with customizable pillows and mattresses. Guests can even enjoy meals in the privacy of their own room.
Unique Destinations: Ever dreamed of sailing the Nile, exploring the Galápagos Islands, or journeying along the Amazon? With Avalon Waterways, you can do it all in style. While many river cruise lines focus primarily on Europe, Avalon broadens the horizon with itineraries that reach as far as Ecuador, Egypt, and even Thailand. Even better, these adventures come with expertly guided tours and some of the most comfortable, well-designed staterooms in the industry.
Lots Included in Your Fare: Avalon Waterways is nearly all-inclusive, covering gourmet dining, alcoholic beverages during meals and happy hours, soft drinks and coffee throughout the day, complimentary Wi-Fi, and select shore excursions at each port. Drinks are always of exceptional quality, with premium wines and champagne available onboard. While Avalon may not be as fully inclusive as some other river cruise lines, it ensures that the most essential perks are included in your cruise fare.
Great Service: Avalon Waterways consistently earns praise for its exceptional service. The staff is polite, attentive, and the impressive 3:1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures a seamless onboard experience. It’s not unusual for crew members to know your name by the second day of your cruise, often having your favorite drink ready as you approach the bar. The guided tours and professionals working on excursions are also absolutely amazing. For guests investing in a premium river cruise, this level of personalized attention is a definite highlight.
The Bad
Not Fully All-Inclusive: While Avalon Waterways covers many essentials in your base fare, it is not entirely all-inclusive. Gratuities are generally not included, and additional charges apply for alcoholic beverages consumed outside of meal times or happy hours.
Not for Children: As is typical for river cruise lines, Avalon Waterways is not designed with children in mind. Most guests are couples in their 60s rather than families with young children. There are no kids’ clubs on board, most of their ships do not have a swimming pool and activities for younger guests are extremely limited.
How Much is a Cruise on Avalon Waterways?
Good question. Prices with Avalon Waterways can vary quite a bit for a number of reasons. The company operates 20 ships across Europe, the Amazon and Egypt, and offers multiple stateroom categories, including the popular Panorama Suite, which influences the overall rate. We also have to consider travel seasons, since pricing shifts significantly between peak and off peak periods.
In general, cruises with Avalon Waterways begin around $2,500 for an entry level stateroom for one guest. If you choose the Panorama Suite, expect rates to increase by approximately 40 to 50 percent.
Below you will find a few sample prices from different destinations. These are based on one guest. Keep in mind that pricing fluctuates throughout the year, but this should give you a helpful idea of what to expect.
- A 5 Day Rhine Cruise starts at $2,410 ($3,400 for a Panorama Suite)
- A 6 Day Danube Cruise starts at $2,600 ($4,000 for a Panorama Suite)
- An 8 Day Seine Cruise starts at $4,400 ($6,100 for a Panorama Suite)
- A 10 Day Nile Cruise starts at $4,600.
- An 18 Day Galápagos Cruise starts at $14,800.
What is included in your Avalon Waterways fare?
A great deal is included in your Avalon Waterways fare. While Avalon is not classified as an all inclusive cruise line, it still offers a generous range of amenities and perks for you. Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages at select times, complimentary Wi Fi, a curated selection of included shore excursions and much more.
Here is what you can expect when you book an Avalon Waterways cruise:
- You Stateroom
- Choice of complimentary wine, beer or soft drinks are included with dinner & lunch and sparkling wine with breakfast. Complimentary specialty coffees, tea, and filtered water refill stations are available 24 hours a day.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Continental Breakfast is usually available for all cabin types; suite guests get free room service and can order breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Select Shore Excursions
- Bikes for Shore Excursions
- Wi-Fi
- Fitness Center
- Onboard Entertainment (live shows, music, etc).
What is NOT included in your Avalon Waterways fare?
Although many amenities are included in your fare, there are still a few items that come at an additional cost. These include:
- Gratuities
- Laundry services
- Alcoholic beverages outside of meal times and hosted cocktail hours
- Select spa or salon services, such as manicures and pedicures on certain ships
Avalon Waterways Fleet and Destinations
One of the most exciting things about Avalon Waterways is their global reach. They operate in many remarkable destinations around the world. The only region where they do not offer sailings is North America, so if you were hoping to cruise the Mississippi with Avalon, you are out of luck.
Everywhere else, though, Avalon shines. Their itineraries include popular and niche waterways alike, from the Nile to the Seine, the Danube and the Mekong River in Asia, along with voyages to the Galápagos.
Now just close your eyes and imagine these incredible destinations paired with some of the best staterooms in river cruising, complete with spacious layouts and beds positioned facing the window so you can wake up to the view right from your pillow.
Even though Avalon has a large fleet, their ships are quite consistent in terms of what they offer onboard. While some vessels are longer than others by ten or twenty meters, that does not impact the amenities you will find. Smaller ships may have fewer staterooms or a bit less top deck space to stroll around, but the size of the rooms and suites remains the same across the fleet, and that is what matters. Restaurants, the fitness center and other onboard spaces also follow the same layout and experience throughout their ships.
Most Avalon ships do not have swimming pools. In fact, one of the few vessels with a pool is the one sailing the Douro, and only the more recent ships feature whirlpools on the top deck. Every ship does include a comfortable indoor lounge, perfect for socializing and relaxing.
Overall, I would not choose an Avalon cruise based on onboard amenities. Itineraries and pricing definitely come first!
Avalon Waterways Destinations
Avalon WaterWays focusses on:
- Europe: including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhône, Saône and Garonne
- Southeast Asia: Mekong River
- Egypt: Nile
- South America and the Galápagos: The Amazon River and the Galápagos
Is Avalon Waterways for you?
Let's be honest: if someone asks me whether I would like to go on a luxurious cruise, I would say yes without blinking an eye. Most river cruises offer an incredible experience along some of the most iconic rivers in the world, and Avalon is no exception.
So, what does Avalon do differently? This is a fantastic cruise line for travelers who want to explore Europe, but it is also a strong option for those interested in more niche destinations, such as the Nile, the Amazon and the Galápagos. Avalon is also an excellent choice for guests who prioritize spacious staterooms and curated excursions above all else. The rooms here are often larger than the industry standard, and beds positioned toward the window are a true game changer. If you love the idea of waking up to beautiful river views right from your bed, this is a wonderful pick.
Their complimentary guides also earn consistently great feedback from guests around the world. If you do not want to stress about choosing the right excursion in each destination, Avalon has you covered. Their professional guides make sure you enjoy every moment as you explore cities like Paris or Cairo. Plus, you even have access to complimentary bicycles for select excursions that involve pedaling through specific routes.
There you have it. If memorable excursions and top tier staterooms are your top priorities, Avalon is a perfect fit. There are other options if you prioritize gourmet dining and multiple restaurants, like AmaWaterways, or if you cannot live without a swimming pool onboard. As with most river cruises, Avalon Waterways also is not the best match for families with young children, as this is a more mature experience catering primarily to guests in their sixties who are looking to relax.
Activities onboard Avalon Waterways
River cruises are never about huge Broadway style shows or over the top attractions like roller coasters or 3D simulators. Those experiences are usually reserved for mainstream ocean cruise lines. With Avalon Waterways, the vibe is even more relaxed, giving you time to appreciate the scenery at your own pace.
Activities range from morning yoga and workout classes at the fitness center to just enjoying a drink in the main lounge, visiting the library, joining history talks/lectures and enjoying wine tasting sessions. Keep in mind that most Avalon ships do not have a swimming pool or a whirlpool, so if those are very important to you, it is a good idea to check your specific ship before booking.
Avalon also features what they call Avalon After Dark. This is an exclusive evening program offering new entertainment options once the sun goes down. One of the common complaints about river cruises is that entertainment usually pauses after dinner. That is not the case with Avalon. Avalon After Dark introduces plenty of fun nighttime activities, including live music, piano performances, karaoke, trivia and even dance parties.
Why book Avalon Waterways with us?
At Famvia, we’re true experts when it comes to river cruising. Our team has crafted detailed guides and reviews covering a wide range of cruise lines, from Viking and A-Rosa to American Cruise Lines, AmaWaterways and more. We're also one of the few sources with an early guide ready for Celebrity River Cruises, set to debut in 2027.
Our expertise extends well beyond river cruising. We’ve worked closely for years with some of the world’s most prestigious luxury cruise lines, including Silversea, Seabourn, Explora Journeys, and others. This deep knowledge of luxury travel makes us especially well-equipped to help you plan the perfect Avalon Waterways experience.
Ready to get started? Just click the Request a Quote button and send us a message. It’s completely free to reach out, and booking through us doesn’t cost a thing. In fact, you may even unlock exclusive deals available only through our travel advisors. Let us help you choose the right itinerary, ship, and sailing so you can enjoy the river cruise of a lifetime with Avalon Waterways.
Avalon Waterways Additional Info
Dress Code
The dress code for Avalon Waterways is smart casual. This means you should dress comfortably, but try not to wear beach clothing inside the dining venues. For dinner, jeans or nice khaki shorts and a presentable shirt are perfectly fine.
About ninety five percent of guests do not dress formally for dinner, since the rule onboard is simply to feel comfortable. Avalon cares more about its passengers enjoying their cruise than about whether they are dressed “right”.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in your base cruise fare.
Wi‑Fi
Wi‑Fi is included in your cruise fare at no additional cost.
Laundry
Laundry services are available onboard for an additional fee. Guests often report that Avalon does an excellent job with laundry.
Carry-on Drink Policy
You are welcome to bring as much alcohol onboard as you can carry, and you may enjoy it in your cabin. However, there are corkage fees if you consume alcohol not purchased on board in public areas.
Smoking
In Europe and the Galápagos, all ships have non‑smoking interiors, with smoking allowed only on the Sky Deck. On vessels in Egypt and China, smoking is restricted to designated areas. On the Mekong, smoking is permitted only on the Sun Deck.
Book your dream vacation with Avalon Waterways!
Now that you know a lot about Avalon Waterways… why not learn even more!? Yeah, our guides do not end here. We have guides about almost anything you can think of. How about the room options at Avalon Waterways? Or the list of restaurants you can find there? We have those too. Wait, now you want to know about the specific pH levels of the swimming pools during June on a rainy night? We don't have that guide yet, but don't tempt us!
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