Vacation Specials

Avalon’s New Itineraries

Grand France for Jazz Lovers

In 2025, Avalon introduces the “Grand France for Jazz Lovers,” offering a 15-day river cruise from Arles to Paris, blending France’s breathtaking landscapes with vibrant jazz experiences. The journey begins on the Rhône River in Arles, featuring historical site visits and onboard jazz performances, including the Vienne Jazz Festival. As the cruise sails north, travelers will explore Avignon’s Palace of the Popes, the medieval town of Tournon, and Lyon’s culinary delights. The itinerary continues along the Saône and Seine Rivers to visit the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, Rouen, and either Van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise or Malmaison. The journey concludes in Paris, where guests will experience guided tours of iconic landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower, promising an unforgettable blend of jazz, history, and French charm.

Romantic Rhine with Swiss Alps

New for 2025, Avalon Waterways’ “Romantic Rhine with Swiss Alps” offers a 12-day journey from Lake Como to Amsterdam. The adventure begins with three nights in Lake Como, exploring its historic district, Gothic Town Hall, and Duomo, followed by a boat ride. In Lucerne, spend one night with a guided tour featuring the Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and an excursion to the Swiss Alps, including options like Mount Pilatus or Stanserhorn. The Rhine River cruise then departs from Basel, Switzerland, and sails through France, Germany, and Holland. Highlights include the Black Forest, Strasbourg’s Gothic cathedral, Heidelberg Castle, and Mainz’s Gutenberg Museum. Guests will explore Rüdesheim’s wine culture, the scenic Rhine Gorge, and Cologne’s Gothic cathedral. The journey concludes in Amsterdam, with a canal cruise through the city’s historic grachten, visits to world-class museums, and the vibrant modern capital of Holland.

Bonjour Bordeaux: Châteaux, Wineries & Charming Villages

Avalon Waterways’ “Bonjour Bordeaux: Châteaux, Wineries & Charming Villages” offers an 8-day immersive river cruise along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. This itinerary provides an unforgettable experience for those wishing to explore the heart of France’s Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, known for its world-renowned wines, charming villages, and exquisite châteaux. Starting and ending in Bordeaux, guests will sail through one of France’s most legendary wine regions, experiencing its rich cultural and architectural heritage. This itinerary features Avalon’s signature Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions, allowing guests to delve into the history of regal castles, savor fine wines in romantic cellars, or explore the countryside through biking or panoramic drives. Key highlights include visits to famous wine estates, local cuisine tastings, and a seaside excursion to Arcachon, where guests can enjoy fresh seafood, including oysters from the region’s famous oyster beds. Avalon elevates this journey with exclusive experiences that capture the beauty, culture, and traditions of southwest France.

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

Introduced in 2024, “Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro” is an 8-day river cruise exploring Portugal’s legendary Douro Valley from Porto. Known as the “River of Gold,” the Douro River winds through Portugal’s most scenic landscapes, where centuries-old vineyards and quaint villages produce some of the country’s finest wines and gastronomic delights. Aboard the Avalon AlegriaSM, the newest addition to Avalon’s fleet of Suite Ships®, guests will experience timeless traditions, family-run farms, and the soul-stirring melodies of Fado music. Key highlights include guided tours of Braga and Guimarães, tastings in Peso da Régua and Lamego, and visits to traditional farms. Guests will explore Freixo de Numão and Freixo de Espada à Cinta, with their traditional granite houses and Gothic windows, and tour the Côa Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for Paleolithic rock art. The cruise culminates in Porto, with its stunning UNESCO-listed Historical Centre offering a perfect conclusion to the journey through the dazzling Douro Valley.