About Avalon Waterways

With the youngest, most contemporary fleet of award-winning ships in Europe, Avalon Waterways brings you river cruising at its very best.

Luxurious comfort, an uncompromising level of service, sleek and spacious staterooms, fine cuisine and carefully-crafted itineraries along some of the world’s most beautiful waterways are just some of the reasons why our guests have awarded us a 97% satisfaction rating, and why they choose to return, time after time.

The Avalon Waterways difference

Is it our luxuriously-appointed ships? Is it our decades of experience?  Or is it our Swiss heritage and meticulous attention to detail that sets Avalon Waterways apart from all other river cruise companies?   We believe it is all these things – and more. 

Since it was founded, Avalon Waterways has been inspired to create an altogether different river cruise experience – one that celebrates the art of travel.  We are actively involved in every aspect of the ship’s design which results in an impressive list of innovations and industry firsts.

We were the first to introduce floor-to-ceiling windows and French balconies on both decks of every ship.  We were also the first to design a Silent Drive System (SDS) for a quieter, smoother sailing.  And we were – and remain - the first to make space a priority with the largest staterooms in Europe.  In short, Avalon Waterways is the first river cruise company to completely transform the river cruise experience, from the predictable to the remarkable.

Heralding a new era in river cruising

Testament to our continuing commitment to lead the way and to always exceed our guests’ expectations is the launch of a new class of ships in 2011 and 2012, with the Avalon Panorama; a ship that redefines the concept of space, in every sense. 

Panorama is the industry’s first Suite Ship, with two full decks of spacious suites and floor-to-ceiling windows that, when opened, transform your suite into an open-air balcony.  With sweeping views from every public area, the Avalon Panorama rewards all of its guests with an unequalled sense of freedom, space and comfort. 

New heights in space and style are matched by Avalon Waterways’ impeccable service, as well as a range of inspiring new dining experiences led by some of Europe’s most talented chefs.

On board every one of our ships your Cruise Director will personally help you make the most of your holiday. On shore, immerse yourself in the history and culture of each hand-picked destination, with our expert English-speaking guides, whose local knowledge and fascinating insights make every excursion a memorable one. 

Relax, you are in safe hands

When you book European river cruises with Avalon Waterways, you book with confidence in the knowledge that you are fully protected.  Avalon Waterways is a member of ABTA and our air-inclusive packages are protected by ATOL, so rest assured that your holiday and your money are secure. 

In the unlikely event that your holiday is affected by travel disruption, either before you travel or while you are away, we will give you the very est travel advice and assistance. 
As part of the Globus travel group; a large and well established travel company with 50 years’ experience, we have a network of worldwide offices and teams of dedicated staff able to take care of you.