Open Avenues

The small-ship, river cruise experience in-depth

Cruising has been a popular mode of tr avel for a multitude of years now. However, in the recent times of ‘doing the different’ cruising does not only mean big ships. River cruising has come to prove that, when it comes to bodies of water and ships, bigger is not necessaril y better

Open Open | 24 Mar, 2023

Avalon Waterways has led the river cruise trend, unveiling for travelers an unforgettable fusion of distinctive sights, colourful cultures and enduring traditions while sailing aboard innovative and award-winning Suite Ships. Aboard Avalon’s spacious, state-ofthe- art Suite Ships, travelers enjoy the company of an expert Cruise Director, personalized attention and seamless dock-and-go sightseeing with insider tips only the locals can provide. Avalon Waterways lays out eight reasons this travel style is a preferred way to see, experience and explore the world.

SIZE MATTERS

River cruise vessels are built to slowly ply the world’s weaving and meandering rivers. To port in storybook settings. To sail under centuries’ old bridges and squeeze between 12-meter-wide locks. Avalon Waterways’ floating “boatique” hotels hold an average of 150 guests. The average guest-to-crew ratio is 3:1. So, crew members give attention to detail easily and happily cater to guests needs, every moment of every day.

SEE, NOT SEA. THERE’S A (BIG) DIFFERENCE

On a river cruise, travelers are not at sea. River cruises wind and bend through the heart of fascinating countries providing a panoramic view of the Old World. Always within a few feet of shore, travelers pass clifftop castles, hillside vineyards, ancient villages, and capital cities.

CRUISING FOCUSED ON “TO DOS,” NOT CROWDS AND QUEUES

River cruises are destination-focused, with local guides who help travelers experience – and connect with – the world around them. They also sail off-the-beaten-path, visiting small fairytale villages, quaint village squares and family-owned wineries, bakeries and restaurants.

Avalon sets the standard in riv er cruising with extraordinary cruises on the newest ships. We offer an incomparable river cruise experience, including one-of-a-kind Panorama SuitesSM – with innovative Open-Air Balconies® (giant wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outside in) – on the industr y’s only Suite Ships®. Our Suite Ships boast t wo full decks of 200 – and 300-square-foot suites. We include
special touches like regional wines and beer at ev ery onboard dinner, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions led by Cer tified Local Guides, VIP access to must-see sights, unique Local Favorites® and more!

FRESH AIR AND PERSPECTIVES

On board Avalon’s award-winning Suite Ships, guests on two full decks are welcomed with 200-square-foot Panorama Suites, featuring a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows that open 7-feet wide (the widest-opening windows in cruising). Every Deluxe Stateroom and Panorama Suite offers natural light and most feature beds facing the views for which river cruising is famous.

WARM “WELCOMES” ALONG THE WAY

Avalon engages with communities by hiring local guides and operators for land activities. This “give back” mentality extends to the purchase of local produce, wines, beers, and even bread, connecting people, places, and culture!

(Avalon Waterways offers a limited special offer available only for India markets of companion free off. For a twin cabin, only on passenger pays and the second travels free. For more information, visit www.avalonwaterways.in)

(A marketing initiative by Open Avenues)