Avalon River Cruise Reviews
The 493 Avalon River Cruise reviews listed below are from past clients of Global Journeys that have traveled with Avalon. Each review has been individually verified by our team.
4.7
5 Star
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
The Hotel in Amsterdam (Room Mate Aitana) was well situated for the start of the cruise, being about 150 metres from the hotel. It was also very close to the railway station that we arrived at. Room very comfortable and spacious. Restaurant very good.
The cruise was not completely full. We were quite disappointed with our Avalon Cruise Director read more half way through the cruise when we asked for an upgrade cabin since the noise in our cabin was keeping us awake (water slapping against side of ship, some engine noise and vibrations). They had a cabin available but insisted that we pay full price for the rest of the cruise (week) of 2400 Euros. Many other passengers tried to upgrade and got the same response. I would have thought that some leeway for them to get some extra money in the bank. Even a lottery at a cheaper price for those wishing to upgrade would have gone gown well.
When advising customers (particularly older ones) I would recommend you explain the dangers on board due to the stairs. Some of the stairs have a narrow side and a wide side. The narrow side does not provide enough foot space to be safe and a fall could have disastrous consequences. Many older people, particular carrying extra weight struggled with the stairs. Three accidents occurred on the trip requiring urgent hospitalisation (one fall in a cabin and one from the stairs). One other slip on the stairs didn't (fortunately) require immediate attention.
It was obvious that the levels of cabin got different service eg we had to ask for the sheets on the beds to be changed after the first week. This was automatic for the upper deck passengers who had their sheets changed very regularly. The two upper decks had uniformed staff assigned. Our lower floor didn't. Talking to some passengers who have done many cruises in upper decks, all agreed that the difference in price between the lower and upper decks was not value for money. One passenger had booked the lower level cabin for that reason. Overall the experience was one in a lifetime and we saw towns and beautiful countryside. We will have many fond memories of the trip for many years ahead. If you would like to have a further conversation by phone please ask Global Journeys and they'll send my number so you can give me a call.
The cruise was not completely full. We were quite disappointed with our Avalon Cruise Director read more half way through the cruise when we asked for an upgrade cabin since the noise in our cabin was keeping us awake (water slapping against side of ship, some engine noise and vibrations). They had a cabin available but insisted that we pay full price for the rest of the cruise (week) of 2400 Euros. Many other passengers tried to upgrade and got the same response. I would have thought that some leeway for them to get some extra money in the bank. Even a lottery at a cheaper price for those wishing to upgrade would have gone gown well.
When advising customers (particularly older ones) I would recommend you explain the dangers on board due to the stairs. Some of the stairs have a narrow side and a wide side. The narrow side does not provide enough foot space to be safe and a fall could have disastrous consequences. Many older people, particular carrying extra weight struggled with the stairs. Three accidents occurred on the trip requiring urgent hospitalisation (one fall in a cabin and one from the stairs). One other slip on the stairs didn't (fortunately) require immediate attention.
It was obvious that the levels of cabin got different service eg we had to ask for the sheets on the beds to be changed after the first week. This was automatic for the upper deck passengers who had their sheets changed very regularly. The two upper decks had uniformed staff assigned. Our lower floor didn't. Talking to some passengers who have done many cruises in upper decks, all agreed that the difference in price between the lower and upper decks was not value for money. One passenger had booked the lower level cabin for that reason. Overall the experience was one in a lifetime and we saw towns and beautiful countryside. We will have many fond memories of the trip for many years ahead. If you would like to have a further conversation by phone please ask Global Journeys and they'll send my number so you can give me a call.
A great way to holiday and see the sights without the rush 2
Grand France (Southbound)
Tony & Gayleen, New Zealand, Jul 2017
We loved the way we could set our own pace. Plenty of choice in the excursions and plenty of time to just chill and enjoy the sights. The food was amazing in both quantity and quality. If we travel again it will be with Avalon.
The Avalon Mekong Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City ranks at the top of 45 years of travel and adventures. I can't praise it enough. I've traveled to over 90 countries - mostly independently - but have used tours more in the last 15 years, and have been on 7 including a Nile tour that like this, was cities with a cruise in between. This was better. Booking read more through Leanne at Global Journeys over the internet as as easy as being in a travel agent's office. Great communication. What the Mekong trip offered was a tick on our bucket list for the temples of Angkor Wat and a bit of relaxation afterwards. We had no expectations beyond that.
What we got - along with the pleasant company of 30 mostly retired people and 6 much younger ones - was an amazing mix of excursions (morning and afternoon offerings daily), modes of transport, and evening entertainment; all in 5 star luxury. The tour director was Phiem. I can't praise him enough. He really understood the clientele / demographic and our needs. He headed a star lineup of people that made everything a pleasure. They had plan A ready for the day, but with the slightest hitch it became apparent Phiem had plan B and plan C too. For example on a morning excursion to a riverside village, the transport was ox cart. Me and several others have knee or hip problems so when it was apparent we couldn't get on, he conjured up a tuk tuk, and he had a back up plan if that hadn't helped. To my delight and surprise I loved the tuk tuks and sanpans (life jackets provided. Really, they have thought of everything!) Cambodia and Vietnam each had a local guide accompany us. Both were hugely knowledgeable and one was a real raconteur too which helped make us his Avalon family, not just a collection of tourists.
29 Staff on the absolutely 5-star Siem Reap ship anticipated your needs. Several of these were specialist chefs and the buffet cold and hot food at breakfast and lunch was excellent plus the evening meal was a la carte. I need to stop but I could go on. In summary if you want to see Angkor Wat this tour goes to the right temples over 2 days. After that you get to choose your pick of excursions (they are all-included) to riverside villages, local craft makers, temples, museums and markets; some dark stuff linked to Pol Pot in Cambodia and the war in Vietnam, or stay on the ship for spa treatment or a nap. I loved it. Can you tell?
What we got - along with the pleasant company of 30 mostly retired people and 6 much younger ones - was an amazing mix of excursions (morning and afternoon offerings daily), modes of transport, and evening entertainment; all in 5 star luxury. The tour director was Phiem. I can't praise him enough. He really understood the clientele / demographic and our needs. He headed a star lineup of people that made everything a pleasure. They had plan A ready for the day, but with the slightest hitch it became apparent Phiem had plan B and plan C too. For example on a morning excursion to a riverside village, the transport was ox cart. Me and several others have knee or hip problems so when it was apparent we couldn't get on, he conjured up a tuk tuk, and he had a back up plan if that hadn't helped. To my delight and surprise I loved the tuk tuks and sanpans (life jackets provided. Really, they have thought of everything!) Cambodia and Vietnam each had a local guide accompany us. Both were hugely knowledgeable and one was a real raconteur too which helped make us his Avalon family, not just a collection of tourists.
29 Staff on the absolutely 5-star Siem Reap ship anticipated your needs. Several of these were specialist chefs and the buffet cold and hot food at breakfast and lunch was excellent plus the evening meal was a la carte. I need to stop but I could go on. In summary if you want to see Angkor Wat this tour goes to the right temples over 2 days. After that you get to choose your pick of excursions (they are all-included) to riverside villages, local craft makers, temples, museums and markets; some dark stuff linked to Pol Pot in Cambodia and the war in Vietnam, or stay on the ship for spa treatment or a nap. I loved it. Can you tell?
This was our second Avalon cruise and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The best thing about river cruising is being able to settle into your stateroom and know you can stay there for the whole journey. Both the boats, Avalon Affinity and Avalon Creativity were comfortable and the hotel staff and crews of both provided excellent service. Our cruise director, read more Joost Ruitenberg was outstanding: a most engaging manner together with great organisational skills, which made our cruise run very smoothly. He successfully transferred 82 travellers from St Jean to Losne by coach and TGV to Paris, without losing anyone!
The experiences on the cruise were varied with lots of included walks through small towns and villages, as well as optional tours to nearby places. There were so many enjoyable experiences, I cannot name a favourite. We were, however, pleased that we had prebooked all our optional excursions before leaving Australia. Because of this those tours were guaranteed, which meant there were only four people on one tour and five on another. We were the only passengers who had prebooked and as a result, several other tours were cancelled due to insufficient numbers.
The experiences on the cruise were varied with lots of included walks through small towns and villages, as well as optional tours to nearby places. There were so many enjoyable experiences, I cannot name a favourite. We were, however, pleased that we had prebooked all our optional excursions before leaving Australia. Because of this those tours were guaranteed, which meant there were only four people on one tour and five on another. We were the only passengers who had prebooked and as a result, several other tours were cancelled due to insufficient numbers.
Fabulous trip 4
Iconic Rivers of Europe - the Rhine, Main & Danube
Paul & Janelle, NSW, Australia, Jul 2017
Once again Yvonne and the team at Global have ensured a wonderful holiday experience. Our Avalon river cruise was an excellent way to see Eastern Europe. Initially we though 20 nights may have been too long to spend on a river cruise but we had to be dragged off the boat at the end. Terrific cabin, great food and wonderful staff. The experience was read more unforgettable and we would highly recommend both Avalon and Global Journeys. The itinerary was interesting and optional tours good value. Nancy, our cruise director was exceptional.
Memorable and excellent experience cruising Amsterdam to Budapest 5
Magnificent Europe
Suzanne & Fay, New Zealand, Jul 2017
Highlights included the attention to detail and highly organised and well orchestrated operation with multiple opportunities to get off the ship and explore the various cities and towns that we visited. The ship felt spacious and clean and the cabins comfortable (106) and products used in the bathroom of good quality. The Cruise Director was extremely read more good and balanced a great sense of humor with meticulous attention to detail and highly effective and organised.
Great way to Explore Central Europe 1
Neville & Carol, QLD, Australia, Jul 2017
As the ratings below suggest, everything about the cruise was very well organised and managed. We would recommend the tour package to anyone,..... but pay the extra and avoid the cabins with only high-level windows (Cat E)! Hotels in Prague and Paris were unnecessarily extravagant for those on a tight budget. You become very aware of the rates if you extend your stay!
This is the second time that I have travelled with Avalon River Cruises and once again it was fantastic!! The crew and the accommodation were 5 Star! The food was incredible and never disappointed and we loved the way that it was always presented so creatively!! Thank you once again for a great time and a very relaxing trip down the Rhine!!
Our room on the Avalon Tapestry II cruise was fantastic. Food and people were awesome. Saw so much over our 7 day journey - unbelievable sights. Loved every port we visited in France. The Normandy Landing Beaches was very emotional and visiting the Ranville War Cemetery was very sobering. At Juno Beach we saw the NZ and Canadian flags flying read more alongside each other - very special. We were told a very sobering and touching story about an elderly returned serviceman who visited the beach only after his wife passed away. It brought tears to many of us. Could not fault anything or anyone regarding this cruise. Thanks Global Journeys for looking after us so well.
Fabulous European river cruise 1
Roz & Roy, New Zealand, Jun 2017
Idyllic. What more can I say! Experiencing the beautiful towns and countryside - making new friends - loving the relaxing life on board a luxury river boat.
The most relaxing way to travel! 3
Burgundy & Provence (Northbound)
Merri & John, VIC, Australia, Jun 2017
Our cruise came at the end of an extended holiday which included two coach tours, one through Scandinavia and the other through Italy. The cruise was certainly the most relaxing way to travel. We could do as much or as little of the shore activities as we chose, and there was a range of activity levels, which was excellent. The gentle pace suited us read more well, allowing us to visit new places without becoming exhausted. We travelled in mid-June, early summer in Europe, but with an unexpected heat wave as we neared Paris.
The ship was always comfortable. You could soak up the sun on the sky deck, or enjoy air conditioned comfort in the privacy of your own room, or any of the communal areas of the ship. Our room was very comfortable, and our steward, Alex, took great care of us. My one piece of advice: take some clothes with an elastic waist! The food was magnificent - from the breakfast buffet, full (or light) lunch and four course dinner. You might find your clothes a little tight by the end of your trip! We will definitely book another river cruise with Global Journeys again.
The ship was always comfortable. You could soak up the sun on the sky deck, or enjoy air conditioned comfort in the privacy of your own room, or any of the communal areas of the ship. Our room was very comfortable, and our steward, Alex, took great care of us. My one piece of advice: take some clothes with an elastic waist! The food was magnificent - from the breakfast buffet, full (or light) lunch and four course dinner. You might find your clothes a little tight by the end of your trip! We will definitely book another river cruise with Global Journeys again.
Delightful Rhone and Saone River Cruise 2
Burgundy & Provence (Northbound)
Kevin, NSW, Australia, Jun 2017
This was our first river cruise and our first booking through Global Journeys. The cruise was with Avalon Waterways Cruises and the ship was the 'Affinity'. The cruise certainly exceeded our expectations. Documentation arrived in plenty of time. Hotel check-in and ship boarding were both very well managed. The 'Affinity' was immaculate. The rooms and read more facilities were exceptionally clean, including public areas. The staff were very efficient, they were friendly but did not get overly personal. All meals on board were another highlight that exceeded our expectations.
On-board documentation of the trip was also of a high standard. We went on most of the additional side trips and believe they were good very value. Where buses we required they were of a high standard and the itineraries were excellent. Our highlight was a visit to the lavender fields with lavender fragrance in the air as we walked by the fields. However there were many other highlights in the old towns and villages, the picturesque scenery etc. The only disappointment was the slow internet service onboard. We strongly recommend the Avalon brand and we were very satisfied with the service provided by Global Journeys.
On-board documentation of the trip was also of a high standard. We went on most of the additional side trips and believe they were good very value. Where buses we required they were of a high standard and the itineraries were excellent. Our highlight was a visit to the lavender fields with lavender fragrance in the air as we walked by the fields. However there were many other highlights in the old towns and villages, the picturesque scenery etc. The only disappointment was the slow internet service onboard. We strongly recommend the Avalon brand and we were very satisfied with the service provided by Global Journeys.
Fantastic trip down the Rhine River. Modern ship, quality cabins, quality service and outstanding meals. We would highly recommend Avalon and look forward to another journey with them. Thanks for arranging such a well organised trip.
Enjoyable and fascinating holiday through the Balkans 6
Balkan Discovery with Bucharest and Transylvania
Neville & Phil, NSW, Australia, Jun 2017
Overall the cruise from Budapest to Bucharest with extension to Brasov was enjoyable. Pick up from Budapest to hotel was on time and courteous. Accommodation at Sofitel in Budapest was excellent and breakfast choices excellent. Having to obtain our own lunches and dinners for 2 days was inconvenient. Checkout at 11 am and no program for 4 1/2 hours, read more with no accommodation and luggage was extremely inconvenient. Stopover in Cetate with presentation/entertainment by owner was fascinating and locally made product tasting was delicious. Accommodation and breakfast at Athenee Palace Hilton was excellent.
The breakfast, lunches and dinners on the river cruise were good, but lacked variety and missing local food fare, basically menus remain unchanged from day to day and any changes were minor. Chef's presentations were average. fish selections poor- overcooked and not very tasty.
Crew on board were helpful but some not very friendly and warm. The cruise director provided scant information on the tours and had to be coerced to provide basic information i.e. duration, ease of walking, lunch options etc. Entertainment on board was boring particularly detailed historical facts on the countries were were visiting. Musical performance only 1 presented and very amateurish. Shore tours covered mainly palaces, fortresses, museums, castles, the excursion to Pecs was the best tour. Most tours involved walking over uneven surfaces and steep hills especially for seniors and over 60's, as a result we had to forgo some tours. Global journeys could improve on their customer service. (GJ: Ouch)
The breakfast, lunches and dinners on the river cruise were good, but lacked variety and missing local food fare, basically menus remain unchanged from day to day and any changes were minor. Chef's presentations were average. fish selections poor- overcooked and not very tasty.
Crew on board were helpful but some not very friendly and warm. The cruise director provided scant information on the tours and had to be coerced to provide basic information i.e. duration, ease of walking, lunch options etc. Entertainment on board was boring particularly detailed historical facts on the countries were were visiting. Musical performance only 1 presented and very amateurish. Shore tours covered mainly palaces, fortresses, museums, castles, the excursion to Pecs was the best tour. Most tours involved walking over uneven surfaces and steep hills especially for seniors and over 60's, as a result we had to forgo some tours. Global journeys could improve on their customer service. (GJ: Ouch)
Avalon Cruise on the Rhine & Moselle 3
The Rhine & Moselle (Southbound)
Gerry & Theresa, WA, Australia, Jun 2017
Many thanks to Georgie at Global Journeys for your help with organising our European River Cruise. We enjoyed the experience a great deal and much of this was due to you. I do have some comments about Avalon specifically which I will itemise :
1. The cruise itinerary was great especially to places where we had not cruise before ie the Moselle River. read more I would recommend this to anyone
2. The content was varied and generally the operation went smoothly. We were supplied with plenty of information en route. In my critique to Avalon I did say the cruise director talked was too much during her daily 'port briefs' , however in her defense I know many on the cruise thought she was entertaining.
3. Personally I thought the meals were too fussy but as I had the choice of eating in the lounge at midday I did miss the evening meals on several occasions. Again I know others felt it was all fine and I will admit to being a 'non-foodie'
4. The cruise passengers were generally seniors from the USA, Canada, Australia, and NZ. We all got along well and we established some friendships
5. I was miffed with Avalon charging me $600 for the amendments to my flight details when I felt the mistake was not my doing. I have he email detailing my requirements which they did not seem to follow however as I did not notice this until much later in the booking process I did not feel justified in making a big issue of the matter.
6. Would I recommend this cruise to anyone - yes, but I would hesitate going with Avalon (this was my third and last trip with them). There did seem to be a big difference in what we Australians pay to that paid in the UK and the USA.
1. The cruise itinerary was great especially to places where we had not cruise before ie the Moselle River. read more I would recommend this to anyone
2. The content was varied and generally the operation went smoothly. We were supplied with plenty of information en route. In my critique to Avalon I did say the cruise director talked was too much during her daily 'port briefs' , however in her defense I know many on the cruise thought she was entertaining.
3. Personally I thought the meals were too fussy but as I had the choice of eating in the lounge at midday I did miss the evening meals on several occasions. Again I know others felt it was all fine and I will admit to being a 'non-foodie'
4. The cruise passengers were generally seniors from the USA, Canada, Australia, and NZ. We all got along well and we established some friendships
5. I was miffed with Avalon charging me $600 for the amendments to my flight details when I felt the mistake was not my doing. I have he email detailing my requirements which they did not seem to follow however as I did not notice this until much later in the booking process I did not feel justified in making a big issue of the matter.
6. Would I recommend this cruise to anyone - yes, but I would hesitate going with Avalon (this was my third and last trip with them). There did seem to be a big difference in what we Australians pay to that paid in the UK and the USA.
We undertook this cruise as an alternative to an ocean cruise. We were looking for a more intimate experience with less people. We were not disappointed. Noting was too much trouble for the staff on the cruise. They attended to our every need and were very friendly. We felt very pampered. Cabins were first class and meals were very good. Fellow read more travellers, were largely American, and very friendly. Memorable highlights included ancient castles on the Rhine and visits to Strasbourg and Cologne. We are happy to recommend Avalon Cruises to anyone. We arrange all our tours through Global Journeys and are very happy to recommend them for their professionalism and their competitive prices.
12 Day Magical China Tour 1
Bob & Susan, NSW, Australia, May 2017
All of the booking arrangements worked perfectly (international flights, airport pickups and drop offs, hotel accommodation, internal domestic flights, local bus tours etc). We could not have had a better China Tour guide than Vicky Qin, she was fantastic. The itinerary was busy but that's what you want in a tour such as this. The overall tour group read more of 16 people consisting of 2 Canadians, 12 Americans and us (2 Australians) was a comfortable and manageable number. We visited all of the "must see" sights including the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Giant pandas, Yangtze River, Three Gorges Dam and many others. The VIP dining room on the river cruise was an excellent feature and the overall standard of meals on the tour was high, with western options available on most occasions. I would highly recommend this Tour.
We had travelled with Avalon previously and again found them to be excellent. The included excursions were very good and there was an extensive range of optional excursions offered. Everything was taken care of so we had a wonderful carefree holiday.
A wonderful River Cruise 1
Burgundy & Provence (Northbound)
Graeme & Jennifer, NSW, Australia, May 2017
We thoroughly enjoyed our Avalon river cruise between Arles and Paris. We couldn't fault the ship, the crew or service. Our Avalon travel director provided support and guidance, being always there but unintrusive. To go with the beautiful ship (Avalon Poetry II) Avalon chose fabulous hotels in Monte Carlo and Paris. Yvonne at Global Journeys made the read more booking process easy and problem free.
Had a small hick up with not being picked up at the airport by Avalon, after waiting for 2 hours we caught a taxi and Avalon refunded the money with no problems. The overall trip was fantastic but the weather was cool as it was spring. everybody on the boat was very friendly and the staff were tremendous. The sightseeing was amazing with so much history, read more the cruise through the canal with all the locks was very impressive, would recommend the trip, we had a great time.
