Emerald River Cruises vs Avalon River Cruises

Why should we cruise with Emerald?

We asked Emerald why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...

Experience relaxed luxury and authentic adventures with Emerald Cruises. Enjoy exceptional inclusions along Europe’s iconic rivers and the Mekong on our river ships and cruise by luxury yacht through the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean, Central America, Seychelles, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.

From the enticing rivers of Europe and Southeast Asia, to the vibrant coastlines of the Caribbean and Mediterranean, and inspiring landscapes of Canada and Japan, each journey is designed to connect you meaningfully with your destination. On shore, read more enjoy cultural encounters and interactive experiences, guided walks, bike tours and more - always with your comfort and curiosity in mind.

What rivers do Emerald explore?

Our thoughts...

The low down on Emerald from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...

Emerald Cruises offer, part of the Scenic Group, offer a premium alternative to its luxury sister brand. Emerald is to Scenic what Travelmarvel is to APT, with fewer inclusions and a lower price point than their luxury counterparts. The Emerald fleet operates river ships along the waterways of Europe and Asia and in 2022 they launched their first of five luxury small ships that cruise the oceans aroudn the world.

With Emerald can expect generous inclusions like meals, airport transfers, gratuities and a selection of excursions so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey, knowing everything you need is taken care of.

Who are we likely to meet on a Emerald river cruise?

Experienced travellers seeking a relaxed, premium river cruise with included sightseeing, local experiences and a contemporary onboard style.

Do Emerald river cruises suit solo-travellers?

Yes. Emerald actively caters for solo travellers with dedicated single staterooms on selected European ships and reduced or waived single supplements on selected departures.

How inclusive are Emerald's river cruises?

Fares include accommodation, all onboard meals, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, WiFi, almost-daily shore excursions, EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE experiences, transfers, port charges and gratuities both onboard and onshore.

Are there any extras to pay on top of the price shown?

Additional costs include optional DiscoverMORE excursions, alcoholic and premium beverages outside the included lunch and dinner selection, upgraded drinks packages and spa treatments.

Do Emerald include shore excursions?

Yes. Guided excursions are included almost every day, together with EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences and EmeraldACTIVE activities. Optional DiscoverMORE excursions cost extra.

What types of excusions are available?

Guests can choose from included guided sightseeing, EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences and more active EmeraldACTIVE options such as hiking and cycling. Additional DiscoverMORE excursions are available for purchase.

Are there any onboard activities or entertainment?

Facilities and activities include lounges, live entertainment, fitness areas, wellness activities, a Sun Deck and depending on the ship, an indoor heated pool that converts into a cinema. Complimentary bicycles are also available on most European ships for exploration ashore.

What are the cabins like on Emerald's river ships?

Accommodation ranges from river-view staterooms to panorama balcony suites and larger Owner's Suites. Many suites feature Emerald's all-weather balcony system, while selected European Star-Ships also have dedicated single staterooms.

Why should we cruise with Avalon?

We asked Avalon why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...

One of our favourite sayings that describes Avalon Waterways is ‘the possibilities are as wide open as the views’. From Europe to the Galapagos and Asia, you can cruise in relaxed luxury with Avalon Waterways, with choices as unique as you. Avalon offers you a range of choices from excursions, dining options, activities that help you tailor your experience.

Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites read more blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.

What rivers do Avalon explore?

Our thoughts...

The low down on Avalon from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...

Avalon Waterways have been cruising the rivers of Europe and Asia since 2004 and its parent company was founded in Switzerland nearly a century ago. Avalon's modern luxury river ships, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, are a firm favourite amongst our past clients, and some of their itineraries are our biggest sellers. Avalon don't usually include Fly Offers with their cruise fare, so you'll need to book flights separately, but consequently their prices are cheaper than other luxury all-inclusive operators - and they offer some great Earlybird discounts too if you get in early. As part of the Globus Family group of Brands, you can also read more secure further discounts the next time you decide to travel by coach with either Globus or Cosmos.

Who are we likely to meet on a Avalon river cruise?

Travellers seeking relaxed river cruising with flexible dining, included sightseeing and a choice of classic, active and immersive experiences. Solo travellers are also well catered for.

Do Avalon river cruises suit solo-travellers?

Yes. Around 10% of Avalon guests travel solo, and Avalon regularly waives single supplements on selected European and Southeast Asia sailings.

How inclusive are Avalon's river cruises?

Fares include accommodation, all onboard meals, a substantial choice of shore excursions, WiFi, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, fitness activities and onboard entertainment.

Are there any extras to pay on top of the price shown?

Gratuities for the onboard crew are included in the cruise fare for Aussies and Kiwis, but not for North Americans. Optional excursions and activities, laundry, premium food and beverages outside the included offering and transfers will cost extra.

Do Avalon include shore excursions?

Yes. Avalon includes a generous choice of shore excursions in your cruise fare, with most itineraries offering a selection of Classic, Discovery and Active experiences at no extra charge. Some cruises include up to 28 ways to explore across the journey, while additional optional excursions are also available to purchase.

What types of excusions are available?

With Avalon Choice, you can explore in a way that suits you. Get moving with Active excursions, try something hands-on with Discovery experiences focused on food, culture and local life, or keep things classic with sightseeing that brings the destination’s history and landmarks to life. You can also head out on your own with complimentary bikes, e-bikes and other gear available on selected cruises.

Are there any onboard activities or entertainment?

Included onboard activities and facilities include live music, trivia, themed events, movies, fitness centres, yoga and stretching classes, an Adventure Host, lounges, a library, Sky Deck areas and whirlpools or plunge pools on selected ships.

What are the cabins like on Avalon's river ships?

All staterooms are exterior-facing. Around 80% are Panorama Suites, featuring wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling Open-Air Balconies and beds positioned to face the river views. Deluxe Staterooms and larger suites are also available, depending on the ship.