Travelbiz E-Zine
13
March
2026

Discovering Avalon Waterways Onboard Avalon View

Avalon is often associated with natural beauty and enchantment and our river ship Avalon View could certainly fit that bill. Alan & Jo-Ann from ASM Ireland issued a lovely invitation to view the ship and Travelbiz jumped on board in Amsterdam, joining a great group of travel agents.

Facilities on board are excellent from the Club Lounge, Sky Deck & Grill, Sapphire Deck Dining Room, Fitness Room, Panorama Lounge & Bistro to Observation Lounge, we sampled them all! State Rooms, Royal Suite and Panorama Suites (with beds facing the water!) are ultra comfortable and spacious.

We joined Pam’s party later to ensure fun on board and reinforce the 1980’s vibe with neon gear. What a night! Sail on Avalon View.

Discovering Avalon Waterways Onboard Avalon View

Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus family of brands, has built a strong reputation in the river cruise sector since launching in 2004, offering stylish and contemporary river journeys across Europe and beyond. Today the company operates itineraries along many of the world’s most iconic waterways including the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône and Moselle in Europe, as well as rivers in Asia, South America and India.

The Avalon Waterways Difference

Avalon Waterways has carved out a unique position in the river cruise market by focusing on space, panoramic views and relaxed luxury.

The fleet is known as the “Suite Ships”, designed with innovative features that maximise the connection between guests and the landscapes they are sailing through. Many of the ships feature Avalon’s signature Panorama Suites, which are more than 30% larger than the industry standard and include wall-to-wall panoramic windows that transform the living space into an indoor Open-Air Balcony.

Another distinctive feature is the “Beds with a View” concept, where beds are positioned facing the windows, allowing guests to wake up to constantly changing river scenery.

Avalon also places a strong emphasis on choice and flexibility, offering a variety of shore excursions, active experiences and culinary options designed to match different travel styles.

The Elegant Avalon View

Launched in 2020, Avalon View is one of the newest ships in the Avalon fleet and reflects the company’s modern approach to river cruising. The ship carries around 166 guests with a crew of approximately 47, creating a boutique-style atmosphere and personalised service.

Key highlights of Avalon View include:

  • Two full decks of spacious Panorama Suites
  • Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows with Open-Air Balcony design
  • Elegant Panorama Lounge and Observation Lounge
  • A stylish Sky Deck for outdoor relaxation and scenic cruising
  • Fitness centre and wellness facilities
  • An Adventure Center with bikes and equipment for active excursions

The ship also features a choice of dining venues including the Panorama Dining Room, Sky Bistro and lounge areas, all designed to create a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

Active, Cultural and Immersive Experiences

Avalon Waterways is particularly popular with guests who enjoy active exploration and immersive travel.

The cruise line offers a range of included and optional excursions such as:

  • Guided cultural walking tours
  • Culinary and wine experiences
  • Cycling tours using onboard bikes
  • Hiking excursions led by Avalon Adventure Hosts
  • Local cultural encounters and performances

This combination of relaxed luxury onboard and authentic destination experiences ashore is one of the key reasons Avalon continues to attract both first-time and repeat river cruise guests.

A Warm Welcome for The Irish Trade

For the Irish travel agents visiting Avalon View in Amsterdam, the ship inspection provided an excellent opportunity to experience the Avalon Waterways product first-hand.

With its spacious suites, innovative design and strong focus on destination experiences, Avalon continues to offer a compelling option for clients seeking a modern, stylish and immersive river cruise experience across Europe’s most scenic waterways.

Travelbiz would like to thank Alan and Jo-Ann from ASM Ireland for the warm welcome onboard and for showcasing a river cruise product that truly captures the spirit and beauty associated with the name Avalon.

Top 5 Selling Points for Travel Agents – Avalon Waterways

1. Panorama Suites with “Beds with a View”
Avalon’s signature Panorama Suites are among the largest in river cruising, featuring wall-to-wall panoramic windows that transform the living space into an Open-Air Balcony. The unique “Beds with a View” design positions the bed facing the river scenery so guests wake up to the destination every morning.

2. More Space Than the Industry Standard
Avalon’s Suite Ships are designed to maximise space and comfort. Over 80% of staterooms are Panorama Suites, which are significantly larger than the average river cruise cabin, offering guests more room to relax and enjoy the journey.

3. Choice and Flexibility Onshore
Avalon offers a wide range of included excursions to suit different interests and activity levels. Guests can choose from Classic sightseeing tours, Active adventures like cycling or hiking, and Discovery experiences focused on food, wine and culture.

4. Relaxed Luxury Dining
Dining onboard Avalon ships is flexible and regionally inspired, with options such as the Panorama Dining Room and Sky Bistro. Guests can enjoy local dishes, fresh ingredients and an open seating approach that encourages a relaxed atmosphere.

5. Ideal for Active & Experiential Travellers
Avalon appeals strongly to travellers who want more than traditional sightseeing. With Adventure Hosts onboard, complimentary bikes, hiking excursions and wellness activities, guests can explore destinations in a more active and immersive way.

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