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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 2,124 cruise departures along the world’s most memorable and mesmerising waterways.
CRUISE DEPARTURES: 2,124
FLEET SIZE: 16
KNOWN FOR: Panorama Suites
479 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 8,774
Save 3,079

8 Days Amsterdam to Basel

Operator: Avalon

From 3,945
Save 2,337

8 Days Basel to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon

From 4,044
Save 2,338

16 Days Budapest to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon

From 9,443
Save 3,090

Popular Destinations View all Explore the following regions on one of 2,124 river cruises with Avalon

Avalon Asia River Cruises
Asia
Avalon Europe River Cruises
Europe
Avalon Nile River Cruises
Nile

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
479 Reviews
5 Star
72%
4 Star
24%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Wow, so good!   0 , VIC, Australia, Oct 2024
As a solo traveller and first time cruiser, I had my hesitations about a 14 day cruise. But it was wonderful in every respect - my room, the ship, the extraordinary Tour Director, the friendly staff and the company of interesting and friendly travel companions. It was a joy.
The best holiday of our lives!     0 , NSW, Australia, Aug 2024
We absolutely loved our Avalon cruise from Prague to Budapest and the accomodation arranged for us at hotels in both Prague and Budapest by Global Journeys we’re fantastic. Everything went smoothly with on the holiday. The cabin on the Avalon cruise was perfect with floor to ceiling windows and the staff on the ship were great. It was our first river ...read more cruise and we would be keen to travel this way again in the future. The flights arranged for us with Emirates were well timed. I would gladly recommend Global Journeys and Avalon to others. The weather was very hot in August, so next time I would travel in September/October.
Loved this cruise   0 , NSW, Australia, Jul 2024
The cruise with Avalon was lovely. All personnel on board were great. Food and cabin great as well as optional excursions. However the optional excursion to Little Venice would not recommend had done a similar one the day before which was included in the trip.
The cruise along the Rhine beautiful and travelled through many locks.
The very best sailing the Danube   1 , New Zealand, Jul 2024
Avalon were exceptional. Our cabin on the top floor and closer to front is important as too near the back is more noisy and fumes.
Our biggest disappointment was that we were totally unaware that the first day we were staying at a hotel and not on the boat. Also there was available an additional staying after in Prague which again we were not aware ...read more of.
Cruising the Seine before the Olympics     0 , SA, Australia, Jul 2024
The highlights for me included experiencing an organised bike tour for 3 hours during blocked Parisian streets before the Olympics, the Unusual Gardens of Etratat, historic Joan of Arc town of Rouen, and walking the path of Vincent van Gough. This is the second Avalon cruise I have done as I was able to avoid the solo supplement. I love the meals on ...read more board which are a contrast from my daily pre-packed dinners! I have already booked another Avalon cruise in France for 2025 with Hannah of Global Journeys who is always efficient and informative. (GJ: Great photo Alick!)
Danube Dreams   2 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2024
Absolutely wonderful trip. Loved every minute. The staff were so consistently cheerful and helpful. The Cruise Director was outstanding. Regarding embarkation - we were told we would be sent an email the day before to tell us the location of the ship, but it didn't come, which was a bit stressful. However, I emailed the ship early the same morning and ...read more was told the information.

The other suggestion I would have is to contact travellers a few weeks before, to ask for what they need after the cruise in terms of transport to airports, stations, whatever. I read a statement in the info that said not to have flights at Munich airport leaving before 8am. I assumed by that (wrongly) that there would be an automatic shuttle to the airport early in the morning. However, when I checked with the wonderful cruise director, she put me straight, and with difficulty managed to get me on a bus to the airport for my flight. Thanks again - amazing.
First River Cruise     1 , WA, Australia, May 2024
From start to finish we thoroughly enjoyed our first river cruise. Georgie managed the whole process for us and kept us fully informed in the lead up. Flights were great, albeit long from Perth. Arriving a day early and staying at the Radisson Blu meant we were fresh and rested for the river cruise. Coming from Perth we were blown away by the experience, ...read more the history and the culture. The ship was excellent and all staff went over and above to add to the experience. Excursions ashore were well planned to cater for individual interests and fitness levels. The whole trip operated like a well oiled machine. Really enjoyed the casual relaxed atmosphere and getting to know the other passengers. Would definitely recommend to anyone interested in doing a cruise and would do it again in a heartbeat.
Danube river cruise with Avalon     1 , New Zealand, May 2024
We did have an unfortunate start to our holiday. When we arrived at Auckland Airport & attempted to check in at Qatar airlines we were told our Travel Agent had cancelled our booking, after a two hour wait trying to sort this out & not being able to get hold of Global Journeys because it was a Sunday we eventually had to purchase two more tickets to ...read more Prague. We have been fully reimbursed by Global Journeys & thank them & Maisie for their quick response. We are still awaiting a full explanation as to why this happened.

The Avalon cruise from Prague to Budapest was fantastic & lived up to our expectations as we had previously cruised on the Rhine with Avalon & were well aware of their very high standards. The excursions available were varied & appeared to suit all passengers. The meals were as expected excellent & the activities & onboard entertainment were very well received by all. Our cruise director Daniela did an amazing job of organising the daily activities & keeping all passengers up to date with up & coming events. We meet some lovely people on board & shared many meal times & a few beers & wines with them.

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...

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 to the cruise director and crew on board are included for European river cruises. For river cruises outside Europe gratuities are not included but can be pre-paid. Tips to local guides on optional excursions are not included. Tipping is a way to show your satisfaction for good service and is always...read more appreciated, but not expected. If you were to tip your local guide it's recommended that tips be paid in cash.
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!