Upon discovering Avalon Waterways‘ tagline, “Cruising Elevated,” one may perceive it merely as a marketing phrase. However, a recent four-day experience aboard the refurbished Avalon Artistry II in France’s Bordeaux region has provided compelling evidence that this tagline embodies the essence of their services.
“It’s not simply a matter of higher standards,” explained Avalon president Pam Hoffee. “It emphasizes distinction, and Avalon brings a multitude of unique experiences to the table.” The recent enhancements grant a fresh perspective on what the Avalon experience offers, particularly highlighted during the Bordeaux cruise.
The Ships
Avalon Waterways has taken significant strides to differentiate itself in the competitive river cruise arena. A major milestone was achieved over a decade ago with the introduction of its Suite Ships, the first and only river boats featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that open a remarkable seven feet, effectively transforming each cabin into a balcony. This innovation enhances both space and scenic views from the comfort of the accommodation.
The Avalon Artistry II, originally launched in 2013, has undergone an extensive refresh, updating its contemporary furnishings and decor throughout public areas like the Sky Deck. This upgrade gives the ship a vibe akin to newness. Furthermore, Avalon has expanded its offerings with a new fleet of bicycles, including four e-bikes, to cater to diverse guest preferences.
Exciting Activities
Prior to the pandemic, Avalon introduced an ambitious initiative known as Active & Discovery excursions. This program expands included activities to explore a region’s culture beyond traditional sightseeing, offering options such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and culinary classes.
For instance, while cruising Bordeaux, one morning featured a scenic 4-mile vineyard walk in Margaux, guided by a local vineyard worker sharing real-life experiences. On another day, guests could opt for a traditional walking tour or an excursion to the Atlantic coast, where we savored oysters fresh from an oyster farm and enjoyed leisure time at Port Arcachon beach.
These itineraries also provide ample time for evening exploration, with extended stays in various cities. Other popular routes in Europe, such as Vienna, Budapest, and Amsterdam, also include overnight stops to maximize guest engagement.
Culinary Excellence
Avalon Waterways has made notable advances in its dining experience, transitioning from past critiques of its culinary offerings compared to competitors. Now, it proudly embraces farm-to-table dining, showcasing local ingredients and wines representative of the regions visited.
Additionally, Avalon’s focus on unique excursions includes collaborations with local businesses like My Bordeaux Tours, which provides trips to boutique wineries and family-owned vineyards, ensuring guests receive a truly immersive experience.
In summary, Avalon Waterways continues to refine its offerings, ensuring that “Cruising Elevated” speaks to the unique and enriching experiences they provide, from innovative ship designs to exceptional culinary delights.
