The small ships Avalon Waterways uses have floor-to-ceiling windows and French balconies so you won't miss the scenery you are passing. You don't have to arrange shore excursions; Avalon Waterways provides guided sightseeing in every port, with headsets, VIP access and no waiting in lines. Dress is casual on board, but the experience is luxurious, with premium bedding, robes and slippers and fresh flowers in every room. Marble baths and L'Occitane toiletries add another luxurious touch.
Avalon Waterways
5301 South Federal Circle
Littleton, CO 80123
877-797-8791
Spend eight days in Burgundy and Provence, cruising the Rhône and Saône Rivers. See the Roman Amphitheater in Arles, Palace of the Popes in Avignon, Old Town and the cathedral in Viviers and medieval Tournon. In Lyons, France's gastronomic capital, sample Beaujolais wine and see the renaissance architecture. Tour a wine cellar in Tournus. The Avalon Scenery holds just 138 passengers and has a whirlpool, hair salon, lounge and bar.
Cruise round-trip, Paris to Paris, on a seven night trip. The cruise goes along the Seine, through the Normandy region, and to the WWII landing beaches. Take a guided tour of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and see a 14th-century château in St. Germain-en-Lave. You can also visit Monet's house in Giverny, the medieval quarter and Gothic Catherdral in Rouen, and Omaha Beach. The Avalon Creativity accommodates 140 passengers.
Although children over age eight are welcome on Avalon Waterways cruises, there are no programs specifically for them. You will not find the organized, supervised programs for kids found on a large cruise ships. However, the company tailors cruises to its vacationers' needs, and offers interactive experiences and storytelling on its shore excursions.
The Avalon Waterways' French itineraries emphasize sustainable cuisine and local wine. Buffet breakfast and lunch, plus sit-down multi-course dinners, with wine, beer or soft drinks, are included on French river cruises. There is also sparkling wine at breakfast, so you can have a mimosa, a self-service 'late riser' breakfast, afternoon tea and Cocktail Hour and late night snacks. The company has healthy food alternatives that include low calorie, low sodium and glucose-free options.
