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Avalon River Cruises

Avalon River Cruises

Avalon Waterways puts you in the captain’s seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you journey on one of 1,207 cruise departures along the world’s most memorable and mesmerising waterways.
CRUISE DEPARTURES: 1,207
FLEET SIZE: 16
KNOWN FOR: Panorama Suites
464 Reviews (4.7/5)
CRUISE STYLES:
River Cruises
DESTINATIONS:
Asia Europe Nile

Featured River Cruises View all

15 Days Amsterdam to Budapest

Operator: Avalon

From 7,243
Save 4,071

8 Days Amsterdam to Basel

Operator: Avalon

From 3,692
Save 1,884

8 Days Basel to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon

From 3,907
Save 1,884

16 Days Budapest to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon

From 8,343
Save 4,080

Popular Destinations View all Explore the following regions on one of 1,207 river cruises with Avalon

Avalon Asia River Cruises
Asia

14 River Cruises

Avalon Europe River Cruises
Europe

122 River Cruises

Avalon Nile River Cruises
Nile

1 River Cruise

Cruise Fleet View all Inclusions, itineraries, onboard facilities & deck plans of each Avalon cruise ship.

Avalon Alegria
Ship Class: River Ship

Avalon Alegria, a dazzling addition to the Douro River, offers an intimate cruising experience with just 102 passengers. Its Panorama Suites, 30% larger than industry standard, and extensive amenities like a state-of-the-art Fitness Center...

Avalon View
Ship Class: River Ship

The Avalon View, a gem in Europe's waterways, offers expansive Panorama Suites and a unique Open-Air Balcony experience. Guests enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a modern Fitness Center, and diverse dining options, all enhanced by...

Avalon Envision
Ship Class: River Ship

The Avalon Envision sets the benchmark in relaxed luxury cruising, with its Panorama Suites offering unparalleled river views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests enjoy modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art...

Avalon Saigon
Ship Class: River Ship

Since first taking her maiden voyage on the Mekong River in 2018, the Avalon Saigon has been praised for delivering an intimate cruise experience as part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships®. With her colonial charm and modern...

Avalon River Cruises Reviews View all

4.7
AVG. RATING 4.7 / 5
464 Reviews
5 Star
71%
4 Star
25%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Great short cruise     1 , NSW, Australia, Oct 2023
This was our third Avalon river cruise and we weren’t disappointed. Despite the itinerary being changed due to low water on the Danube. Avalon handled the situation well. Stayed in cabin 210 which was only a short walk to the main sections of the ship. Food and staff very good, though there appears to be less staff on board. Due to the low water we ...read more stayed 2 nights on the Avalon Impression docked in Budapest. We were then bused to Bratislava for our day tour there and continued on to Vienna to join our correct ship the Avalon Envision.

All crew were the same on each ship which helped with continuation. Avalon provided each passenger with cash to purchase lunch in Bratislava and also some free optional excursions as compensation. Tracey handled our booking very professionally, as always! Appreciated the updates on the changes. The team at Global Journeys are great and will continue to be our go to agents. They offer great value and a friendly and helpful team.
Balkan Discovery + Transylvania   1 , NSW, Australia, Oct 2023
Travelled on Avalon View, an excellent vessel. Cabin and crew were great. Our river time was cut short by one day due to low water levels in the lower Danube but Avalon responded well with alternate arrangements. Transylvania extension was excellent, thanks to our local guide, Stefan.
Excellent experience   1 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2023
Avalon Panorama was a perfect experience, each day waking up in a new country was so fascinating. The on board experience from the beautiful big window , happy hour, four course meals or optional casual, a place to sit quietly and read or watch the world go by. The room was a good size with a very functional bathroom. The people who made the trip was ...read more the staff , the tour director Simona , our room gentleman Blessing ,every person I interacted with was kind, polite and happy to be there . They made it fun, interesting and a pleasure.
Avalon cruise from Basel to Nuremberg was perfect for first-time cruisers   0 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2023
Although my husband and I have already been on previous Rhine cruise, it is still enjoyable and more appreciated the second time. We travelled with 6 other friends/family who are all first-time river cruisers and they all enjoyed and wowed by the river cruise, especially the food and services on board. The only thing which stopped me from rating this ...read more a 5-star is the lack of self-service laundry which other river cruise companies have.
Booking with our Avalon cruise with Hannah   0 , WA, Australia, Aug 2023
Thanks Hannah, everything went great. Despite Emirates delay into Amsterdam. The booked pickup waited an extra thirty minutes for us. We made the boat with 45 minutes to spare. Cabin 312 was excellent as was the whole cruise. See you sometime 2024. Thanks.
Wonderful tour through the south of France   1 , Australia, Jul 2023
The cruise exceeded our expectations. Beautiful scenery and wonderful towns to explore. Would highly recommend Avalon cruises.
Excellent service with friendly staff and the best cruise director we have ever had Tony Jenkins. And thank you Global Journeys for an easy and hassle free booking. Will certainly book with you again.
Romantic Reine     3 , New Zealand, Jul 2023
Absolutely loved the 8 day/ 7 night river cruise from Basel in Switzerland up to Amsterdam. The crew were amazing. The service and food was like being in a five star hotel throughout the whole time. Excursions were organized for us every day. We will definitely do another river cruise with Avalon.
Avalon Waterways Rhine cruise   0 , New Zealand, Jul 2023
We can't recommend Avalon Waterways cruise enough - it was brilliant from start to finish. The facilities were well maintained, modern and spacious (the bed was extremely comfortable). The staff went out of their way to make you feel welcomed. The excursions were very well run and informative. The food was delicious and plentiful, and the free drinks ...read more were also generous. Entertainment was great. With only 100 guests onboard we felt we were valued guests. Will definitely be returning to do another Avalon cruise.

Avalon Brochures Download the latest Avalon brochures to read at your convenience.

River Cruises

River Cruises (2024-25)

Embark with Avalon on your choice of over 75 cruises on 12 rivers (plus the Galápagos!) featuring 24 countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Egypt. Discover tradition and timeless beauty on the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Saône—to name a few....more Discover how generations of graceful traditions live on while sailing the Mekong in Southeast Asia or unlock the secrets of the Sphinx on the mysterious Nile in Egypt. Welcome aboard! Where shall we sail next?
River Cruises

River Cruises (2023-24)

Embark with Avalon on your choice of over 70 cruises on 10 rivers through 24 countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Egypt. Discover the European continent on its legendary rivers from the North Sea to the Black Sea. From the English Channel to...more the Mediterranean Sea, discover timeless tradition and beauty on the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Saône—to name a few.
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The Avalon River Cruise Experience Choose to travel with Avalon on your next adventure!

It's All About Your Outlook
It's All About Your Outlook

No other fleet of river cruise offers you a view of the world like Avalon Suite Ships, featuring Avalon Panorama Suites. Thirty percent larger than the industry standard, they’re actually river cruising’s only Open-Air Balcony - with nothing between you and the view.

While other river cruise cabins are designed with beds against a wall for a view of another wall, our Comfort Collection beds actually face the view with the widest-opening, wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in river cruising.

Think of it as a view with a room!

Included Luxury
Included Luxury

From meticulous millwork to hand applied finishes, Avalon's ships are thoughtfully designed and appointed with quality materials. Each Avalon Suite Ship was created with customer comfort as a priority.

Every well-appointed Deluxe Stateroom or Suite is a spacious refuge of inviting home-away-from-home features. Delight in a large private bathroom with full shower with glass door and premium L'Occitane bath products; quality robes and slippers; luxurious Comfort Collection Beds with premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, European-style duvets; soft or firm pillows; ample closet space and under-bed storage; fully stocked minibars with complimentary bottled water; and flatscreen televisions with a movie channel and selection of films.

In addition, we boast countless amenities like complimentary access to Wi-Fi, local specialty dishes, regional wines and beers, a fitness centre, hair salon and more.

Over 85 years In Travel
Over 85 years In Travel

Avalon Waterways is one of the most reputable cruise operators on the waterways today. Family owned, the Globus Family have more than 85 years of experience planning itineraries and guiding holidays around the world.

You can book with confidence knowing that we have a 97% customer satisfaction rating and international recognition for our ships and service offerings. In 2004, excited by the promise of river cruising that (at the time) was characterized by older ships, limited space and land excursions that operated as an afterthought, Avalon Waterways was established to create a different kind of river cruise experience - one that would embrace and celebrate everything special about the travel style.

Explore More Explore more Your guide to travelling with Avalon River Cruises

A Holiday Experience Like No Other

18 December, 2023

A Holiday Experience Like No Other

Surely the most scenic way to explore a country is by river cruise, journeying peacefully through picturesque countryside, admiring the beauty of the surrounding area and watching the world float by. Whether passing by pretty villages, enchanting castles and vineyards perched on nearby cliffs...

Cruising the Moselle with Avalon

18 December, 2023

Cruising the Moselle with Avalon

As intoxicating as the grapes that grow along its path, Europe’s beautiful Moselle River takes travellers deep into some of the continent’s most memorable rural landscapes. Branching out from the famous waters of the Rhine in Germany, the Moselle flows for more than 500 kilometres through the...

Earn Qantas Points with Globus Family of Brands

19 April, 2022

Earn Qantas Points with Globus Family of Brands

The Globus Family of Brands has announced an exciting new partnership with Qantas meaning that when you book a tour or river cruise with one of their brands you will now be eligible to earn Qantas Points as well. For tours booked with Globus and Cosmos, you will earn you one Qantas point per...

Your Avalon Adventure is up to You

29 April, 2019

Your Avalon Adventure is up to You

If life is an adventure, shouldn’t your river cruise be one too? Avalon Waterways believe that there are more ways than one to explore destinations. That’s why your Avalon Adventure Host is ready with activities and excursions that speak to your preferences and pace to explore each locale your...

Avalon River Cruise FAQ's Frequently asked questions for those considering travelling with Avalon River Cruises

Who will I be cruising with?
Avalon guests are a mix of passengers from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, as well as Europe and Asia.
Are drinks included onboard?
Avalon offer complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks, which are served with lunch and dinner onboard. Sparkling wine is also served with breakfast!
Is Wi-Fi included on my cruise?
All Avalon ships in Europe and Egypt have complimentary Wi-Fi available to guests. On the Mekong, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge.
Are excursions included?
Avalon include a range of Classic, Active and Discovery sightseeing options in your cruise fare. You can also pre-purchase Optional Excursions once your cruise is placed onto a 'Definite Departure' status.
When can I book my Optional Excursions?
Once your cruise is booked and confirmed, your Global Journeys Cruise Advisor will ask you to complete your Avalon ‘MyAccount’, where you can book your additional excursions between 90-4 days prior to the excursion date. Availability is limited and on a first-come-first-served basis, so we recommend booking your...read more shore excursions as soon as possible.
Are airport transfers included?
No, but you can pre-purchase Avalon’s airport transfers if your flights arrive and/or depart on the first and last days of your cruise, or with pre and/or post-cruise accommodation booked as part of your Avalon cruise package.
Do I need to tip during my cruise?
Gratuities are not included in the cruise price. Avalon advise that gratuities can be paid at the passenger's discretion.
How much luggage can I bring?
Avalon recommend guests bring one (1) suitcase per person, with the weight not exceeding 22kg (48lbs). You can find further details on luggage limits in your final cruise documents. Remember that airlines have their own luggage restrictions as well.
Do I need a travel adaptor?
Electricity onboard Avalon Waterways ships ranges from 110v-220v. Specific electricity details for your ship will be included in your final cruise documents. It is recommended to pack an international travel adaptor, as well as a converter if your appliances are not dual voltage.
What do I wear on my cruise?
The dress code with Avalon Waterways is casual, so dress for comfort and practicality. Dinner attire is smart casual (open-neck shirts, pants, dresses are fine). Some guests dress up for the Captain’s Reception and Farewell Dinner, but it's not required.
Remember to consider the places you’ll visit in each...read more destination and if there are any dress codes or cultural expectations – we’d hate for you to miss out on any must-see sites!
What should I pack?
We suggest packing layers to cover all temperatures. Include appropriate clothes, comfortable shoes, and a small backpack for your time ashore. You might want to pack a mix of smart-casual and dressy options for your time onboard. Adventure Hosts will also lead daily workouts on European cruises, so pack your...read more active wear and dress for fitness success.
How do I pay for things onboard?
Avalon use a cashless system where all onboard services and purchases are added to a shipboard account. At the end of your cruise, your account can be settled with either cash or credit card (traveller’s cheques incur a fee).
What currency is used onboard?
In Europe, Euro and US Dollars are accepted by Avalon Waterways, as well as American Express, VISA, MasterCard and Diner’s Club. In Southeast Asia, Avalon accepts US Dollars and payment using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or cash.
Can I cruise with Avalon Waterways as a single traveller?
Single travellers can sail with Avalon, and enjoy the privacy of their own stateroom, however a Single Supplement will apply. Avalon occasionally offer Single Supplement Waivers on select itineraries and sailing dates, so be sure to speak with your Global Journeys Cruise Advisor if you’re thinking of cruising...read more solo.
Where can I do my laundry?
Avalon Waterways offer a laundry service on their ships. You'll find the price list and details for arranging laundry services in your stateroom.
Will there be children onboard?
You might see some younger travellers onboard your Avalon ship, but there are no special arrangements or activities for children so it’s unlikely you’ll see many, if any.
When do I embark and disembark my cruise?
Details on when and where to embark and disembark your cruise will be provided in your final travel documents.
What’s the best side of the ship to book my cabin?
There isn't a specific right or wrong side to book your cabin. Both sides offer generous views, allowing you to choose based on personal preference and cabin availability.
Will I get seasick on a river cruise?
It's uncommon to experience seasickness on a river cruise, given the calm waters and slower ship movement. If you’re concerned, consult your doctor before departure for peace of mind.
When will I receive my cruise documents?
Your Global Journeys Cruise Advisor will email your final cruise documents to you about 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided we have received all the required information we need from you. Bon Voyage!
What is SafetyNet Protection?
If you’re unsure of your commitments leading up to your departure, Avalon Waterways offer an optional SafetyNet Protection policy for an additional fee, allowing you to amend your trip without penalty. Read more here. If you'd like to include...read more this protection, please let your Global Journeys Cruise Advisor know.
Do I need a visa?
You will need to contact the Embassy (Consular Services) of each country on your itinerary for specific visa requirements, information, forms and fees for your nationality. More information can be found here.
Do I need travel insurance?
Australian Medicare, New Zealand ACC and private health insurance will not cover you for any medical costs while away. We strongly recommend that you organise your travel insurance at the time you pay your deposit.

Travel insurance is an essential part of your holiday plans. Be aware when organising...read more your insurance, that uninsured travellers (or their families) and travellers without the appropriate level of cover, are held personally liable for cancellation, medical and associated costs incurred at any time whether before the cruise, on board or overseas.

Global Journeys recommends Cover-More Travel Insurance.

Terms & Conditions All the boring small print. We recommend you read them, as no one likes surprises!