Avalon Waterways

On an Avalon vacation, you can discover each destination your way through a wide range of activities and excursions that are included in the upfront price.

Our customers can take advantage of our fantastic limited-time deals on Avalon cruises. To see all current offers, click here.

Avalon will begin operating new river cruises in Bordeaux next week. Sail the charming Dordogne and Garonne rivers and discover idyllic villages, grand chateaux and enchanting wineries in southwest France. Some trips also include time on the Seine, Saone, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Avalon's Europe cruise fares include a river-view stateroom, onboard meals, Wi-Fi access, guided sightseeing, sparkling wine at breakfast and soft drinks, regional beer and wine at lunch and dinner. Complimentary beer, wine and spirits -- along with a featured cocktail of the day -- will be served during an onboard happy hour each night of the cruise.

The company's exclusive Avalon Choice program lets travelers pick from a variety of included excursions on every itinerary -- there are Classic, Active and Discovery options. Shore activities are carefully planned to support local businesses and communities while providing guests with unique, memorable experiences.

On "Classic" excursions, learn about history and culture during visits to museums, cathedrals, castles or archaeological sites with local experts.

"Active" excursions can involve pedaling along the cycling paths of the Wachau Valley, kayaking in Amsterdam's canals or joining an urban hike through Lyon's secret passageways. Adventure Hosts on Europe departures can provide maps, bicycles and Nordic walking sticks to those who wish to explore on their own.

On "Discovery" excursions, you might enjoy a private musical performance or try a local recipe in a cooking class. Participate in interactive experiences in a variety of venues, from celebrated music halls and galleries to farmhouse kitchens.

Avalon's Active & Discovery itineraries provide a greater number of these two types of outings. You can bike or hike, join a cocktail-making class or create your own masterpiece at a painting workshop, for example.

And finally, the Storyteller Series is a collection of cruises featuring celebrity hosts. Join best-selling novelist Christopher Moore on the Danube this year or sail the Rhine with rock band Sister Hazel in 2026.