My Cruises x Avalon | Discover Europe's Most Enchanting Treasures

From Romantic Riverbanks to Sparkling Skies

Spotlight on Europe: Mediterranean and Rhine Odyssey

A Real Taste of Spain and Portugal

Romantic Rhine River Cruise Review

Choose Your Own Adventure: Onshore Experiences

Two Iconic Rivers, One Unforgettable Cruise

Explore. Engage. Immerse.

New ships, new itineraries, new destinations. Get set to experience a European river cruise unlike any other with Avalon Waterways and My Cruises. I’m thrilled to share these feature articles with you to give you a taste of Avalon Waterways, as experienced first-hand by our My Cruises Experts. In this edition, expect even more inspiring journeys that allow you to discover in a way you never imagined.

Along with these articles, you’ll find a collection of hand-selected, effortlessly planned itineraries brimming with up to $4000 Bonus Value, including flights, hotel stays, scenic rail journeys, airport lounge access and more. And all of this can be secured with a low deposit, making your cruising holidays so much easier.

Cabins for 2025 sailings are already filling fast so secure your unbelievable river cruise holiday today.

Last year, I was lucky enough to embark on an Avalon Waterways journey with my family which was like navigating through a dream, where each moment on tranquil waters became a treasure of shared laughter, joy, experiences, and onshore discoveries.

Reasons

6 TO EMBARK ON A EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE

IT’S NO SECRET THAT A RIVER CRUISE IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO EXPLORE THE EUROPEAN CONTINENT. AFTER ALL, A RIVER CRUISE JOURNEY OFFERS ALL THE CONVENIENCES OF A TRADITIONAL CRUISE HOLIDAY, WITH THE ADDED BENEFITS OF INLAND TRAVEL THROUGH EUROPE.

Arriving in a new port-of-call every day, you’ll visit destinations both familiar and off-the-beaten-path, while only having to unpack once. You’ll even be immersed in the local sights whilst onboard your perfectly designed ship, with regionally-inspired food and beverages, and unsurpassed views of romantic riverways wherever you look.

Here are six reasons why you’ll love the relaxed luxury of river cruising with Avalon Waterways.

BOUTIQUE SHIPS 01

Expect a relaxed, intimate atmosphere when onboard a river cruise. Each ship in Avalon’s fleet carries less than 170 passengers, and every single stateroom is at least 20 percent larger than the industry standard. Better yet, Avalon’s boutique hotel-inspired Panorama Suites feature the industry’s only Open-Air Balconies, complete with the widest-opening windows in river cruising. Beyond your stateroom, Avalon’s ships have no shortage of comfortable spots to stretch out, daydream or simply watch the world go by.

02

TRAVEL TO THE HEART

Enjoy more off-ship adventures when exploring Europe via river cruise. Avalon’s immersive river cruise itineraries stop at a new port-of-call every day, visiting a mix of iconic cities, like Budapest and Amsterdam, and lesser-known but equally as beautiful towns, such as Strasbourg and Heidelberg. Best of all, Avalon’s fleet is built to sail under centuriesold bridges and right into the heart of every port. Plus, Avalon promises dock-to-discovery in mere minutes, so you can step off your ship and get straight to exploring your dream destinations.

SCENIC SAILING 03

04

By choosing a river cruise, you’ll swap sea days for see days. Prepare for abundant sights at every turn when cruising down Europe’s most legendary riverways, like the Danube’s Wachau Valley or the stunning Rhine River Gorge, with Avalon. Whether you’re relaxing in your stateroom, socialising in a restaurant or lounge, or soaking in the sun on the sky deck, the scenic shoreline – dotted with centuries-old villages, rolling vineyards and fairytale castles – is always in view.

PERSONALISED SERVICE 05

With high crew-to-guest ratios, the service onboard a river cruise is second to none. This is particularly true onboard Avalon, who take special care to ensure that you are perfectly taken care of every step of the way. From your Captain and Cruise Director right through to your stateroom attendants, Avalon delivers extraordinary, personalised service that’s warm, intuitive, and knowledgeable. This superior service continues even when in port, with friendly local guides ready to greet you at every port-of-call with engaging tales that bring you closer to your destination.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

Savour next-level culinary experiences when cruising Europe’s rivers. Designed around a paddock-to-plate philosophy, menus onboard your river cruise are regionally inspired, with produce sourced directly from ports along your route. Naturally, dining is accompanied by the service of fine wine and beer, also of local origin. Thanks to Avalon’s FlexDining approach, you can choose from a range of onboard dining options, including breezy al fresco lunches, elegant four-course feasts and everything in between. On an Avalon cruise, dining is part of the journey.

TRAVEL YOUR WAY 06

Destination immersion is an integral part of every river cruise, which is why onshore excursions are typically included. No two travellers are alike, so Avalon would never expect you to enjoy the same cruise experiences as everyone else. That’s why they’ve curated a collection of varied experiences, with three distinct shore excursion types: Classic, Discovery and Active. For instance, Classic excursions include guided walking tours, Active excursions include biking, hiking and kayaking tours, and Discovery excursions include cooking and painting classes. The choice is yours with Avalon.

It’s time to discover Europe in a new light. 06

A Real Taste of

SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

THIS BRAND-NEW ITINERARY ON A BRAND-NEW SHIP COLLATES INCREDIBLE DESTINATIONS ALL IN ONE UNFORGETTABLE CRUISE HOLIDAY.

Spain and Portugal offer delicious dining, colourful cities, fascinating history, jaw-dropping art and architecture, stunning coastlines, and gorgeous weather all year round. There’s intense pleasure in slowly waking up to the sights of rolling hills, neat vineyards, and picturesque villages while cruising along the majestic Douro River.

Brimming with the colour, life, and energy of Spanish culture, the Gothic Quarter is our favourite area of this destination for its extraordinary food.

The wine and bars are exceptional, and La Boqueria Food Market is well worth a visit. A major drawcard of this city is also the art scene and dramatic architecture.

The remarkable Gaudi sites dotted around the city make this a bucket list destination, and the Picasso Museum is a lifetime highlight. With a Bonus three-night hotel stay to explore Barcelona, you can truly immerse yourself in this charming town.

Bustling with markets, Madrid is a vibrant city of excellent eats and nightlife. Marked with lush parks, eye-popping squares, world-class art galleries, and elite shopping, you’ll never be short on things to do in Madrid.

Stop by The Prado Museum, Retiro Park, and the Royal Palace. You also get a Bonus three-night hotel stay here to further explore and enjoy Madrid.

The original home of Port and one of Europe’s oldest cities, captivating Porto is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Climb Clerigos Tower for unmatched views over the city, be wowed by the lovely Livraria Lello bookstore and admire the famed Azulejo tiles at Sao Bento Railway Station. Top off your day with a glass of decadent Port wine, of course. The romantic city of bridges, take advantage of the many perspectives as you stroll on foot across this stunning city.

Take a guided sightseeing tour to discover the many charms, including a visit to the nearby riverside city of Matosinhos with its beautiful beaches.

Known for its small-town charm, Entre-os-Rios is home to colourful castles, panoramic views, and historic monasteries. Take a shuttle to the medieval Ducal Palace or simply walk around the tiny town and encounter local fishermen, climbing bougainvillea, cobblestone streets, and laneway laundry. Onboard, pass the Carrapatelo lock which feels a bit like a fun park ride.

Located in the countryside, this town has been the centre of Portugal’s port wine industry for centuries. Pay a visit to one of the oldest farms in the Douro Valley or enjoy a walk through the town’s narrow streets, where you’ll find religious architecture, beautiful tiles, and stained-glass windows Take a guided tour, meet local olive oil makers, and taste the flavours of Portugal. This is a great place to feel, eat, and shop like a local, rather than a tourist.

Beneath the Portuguese sky, where whispers of history roam, Castelo Rodrigo stands, a sentinel of time’s ancient tome. The traces of this town lead back to Medieval times, marked by its towering cobblestone castle. Surrounded by terraced vineyards and picturesque olive groves, this sleepy town is a step back in pace and time.

This port offers the perfect base to visit Amarante, the heart of the picturesque Minho region. Enjoy exploring this charming town, known for its beautiful kaleidoscope of architecture and rich history. The bridge of São Gonçalo, constructed in the 18th century, is the standout attraction.

BARCELONA, SPAIN

MADRID, SPAIN

PORTO, PORTUGAL

PORTO ANTIGO, PORTUGAL

PESO DA REGUA, PORTUGAL

BARCA DEL ALVA, PORTUGAL

FERRADOSA-LEVERINHO, PORTUGAL

BRAND NEW SHIP

Experience relaxed luxury river cruising through Portugal’s stunning Douro River onboard the brand-new Avalon Alegria, launching in 2024.

Be one of the first to sail on this newest addition to the award-winning fleet. Avalon Alegria offers suites with floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall panoramic views, open-air balconies, 30% more space, and signature ‘Beds with a View’.

Make yourself at home in the Club Lounge and watch the world go by from the Observation Lounge. Stretch out on the Sky Deck, dip into the swimming pool, and relax on premium lounge chairs whilst indulging in spectacular views of Portugal.

LISBON, PORTUGAL

You’ll love Lisbon for it’s lush seaside setting, cobblestone laneways, pastel buildings, and iconic trams, but the best part is the Portuguese tarts and sweets. Renowned for luscious culinary dishes, especially seafood, cherry liquor, and Portuguese tarts, foodies will revel in the culinary delights on offer.

For lively nightlife, Fado and Bairro Alto boast bars, restaurants, and Fado bars. City highlights include Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries and the magnificent Palacio Nacional de Sintra.

ROMANTIC RHINE RIVER CRUISE REVIEW Insider Scoop:

My Cruises’ Specialist, Jacky, recently experienced the Romantic Rhine River Cruise from Basel to Amsterdam. Here, she shares her daily experiences and tips with you, so you know what to expect.

GETTING THERE

Getting to the Rhine River with My Cruises was easier than I imagined. Navigating Zurich train station before boarding the ship in Basel, was surprisingly easy!

01 BREISACH (BLACK FOREST), GERMANY  DAY

Day Highlight – Welcome to Breisach, the perfect base for the mysterious Black Forest.

Onshore Experience – This storybook town is the ideal gateway to uncovering the wine and foodloving culture of this German region.

Onboard Moment – The Avalon app helped us plan daily activities and was easy to use.

Best Surprise – We upgraded to the Panorama Suite (it’s worth the upgrade if you can!) and absolutely loved the views from the window-facing bed!

TOP TIP

It’s a good idea to secure your activities ahead of time, as they book out quickly.

DAY

02 STRASBOURG, FRANCE & COLMAR

Day Highlight – Strasbourg is a picturesque town on the border of France and Germany! Explore cobbled lanes, colourful homes, Renaissance buildings, and stained-glass cathedrals.

Onshore Experience – The walking tour excursion of downtown Strasbourg was something to remember, and we fell in love with the mouthwatering pastries filled with cream and Nutella!

Onboard Moment – We savoured the delicious daily buffet breakfast using locally sourced ingredients, which changes with each town you visit.

Best Surprise – We loved that the excursions and tours were in the morning, exclusively with Avalon, before all the crowds arrived.

Watch a sneak peek of your cruise.

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03 HEIDELBERG, GERMANY DAY

Day Highlight – Heidelberg is a historic German university town. Don’t miss the incredible ruins of the Renaissance palace, once home to the Imperial Princess.

Onshore Experience – Heidelburg Castle is one of the only castles that exists in its original condition. A ticket here gives you a funicular ride (steep trolley ride) and it’s included in your tour.

Onboard Moment – At dusk, we savoured evening cocktails whilst gazing at the stunning European sunset over the Rhine River as we sailed away.

Best Surprise – Happy Hour meant we could have complimentary cocktails every day. It was the perfect way to end your day.

Day Highlight –

Welcome to Rudesheim, a quaint town known for Riesling wine vineyards. Visit laneways lined with shops, gin distilleries, taverns, restaurants.

Onshore Experience – We borrowed a bike from Avalon to ride through the vineyards.

Onboard Moment – My favourite moment was lying on the bed in our suite and watching the castles go by. It doesn’t seem believable!

Best Surprise – You witness more castles along the Rhine River than anywhere else on Earth! You’re invited on the deck during this part of the cruise which is perfectly timed to sail by this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site.

05

COLOGNE, GERMANY   DAY TOP TIP

Make the most of all-inclusive onboard dining and return to the ship for lunch.

Day Highlight – One of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful cities, spend your visit exploring squares, local markets, historical monuments, and the modern city.

Onshore Experience – We enjoyed the half-day walking tour and learning the history of the Old Town, as well as visiting the huge cathedrals that took hundreds of years to build!

Onboard Moment – Watching a movie was a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day exploring.

Best Surprise – I was blown away by the phenomenal service. Everyone from the receptionist to housekeeping was so helpful and knowledgeable.

Day Highlight – Welcome to Amsterdam, home to picturesque canals and architectural delights. Enjoy an overnight stay onboard in port for more time ashore.

Onshore Experience – A highlight of the entire trip was the Zaanse Schans Windmills, and traditional clog and cheese-making excursion - all organised through Avalon.

Onboard Moment – We enjoyed eating the lighter portions of the same menu in the lounge area that are offered daily, as well as the overnight stay onboard in Amsterdam.

Best Surprise – The activities are extremely well organised by Avalon, and you can go at your own pace on walking tours.

12 night British Isles cruise onboard Cunard Queen Mary 2 and an 8 day Rhine River cruise onboard Avalon Waterways.

ON EUROPE Spotlight

MEDITERRANEAN AND RHINE ODYSSEY

COMBINE A MEDITERRANEAN OCEAN AND RHINE RIVER CRUISE FOR ONE EPIC EUROPEAN ODYSSEY

Make memories that last a lifetime as you sail across the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean and the beguiling beauty of the Rhine River.

Wander winding cobblestoned streets, laze on postcard-worthy beaches and tick iconic European attractions off your bucket list. Breathtaking vistas, culinary delights and architectural gems await on this dreamy ocean and river combined cruise discovery.

Every avid traveller needs to visit Paris at least once in their lifetime. After all, the City of Light is dripping in art, culture and beauty, and is home to more iconic monuments than we can count.

Beautiful Barcelona offers a feast for all the senses. Be sure to hit up Antoni Gaudi’s quirky architectural masterpieces, including La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and Casa Batllo.

PARIS

AMSTERDAM

With its winding canals, cobblestone lanes, centuriesold homes and flower-adorned bridges, Amsterdam is as pretty as a postcard. A leisurely bike ride is by far the best way to explore this charming city.

MILAN

It’s easy to fall in love with Milan, the art and fashion capital of Europe. While here, consider taking a day trip to iconic Lake Como, famous for its dreamy setting against the foothills of the Alps.

RUDESHEIM

For a taste of a true Rhine wine town, you can’t miss Rudesheim. En route, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge and take in breathtaking views of ancient clifftop castles and picturesque vineyards.

DUBROVNIK

A must-see spot, the Pearl of the Adriatic is famous for its terracotta rooftops and gleaming turquoise waters. You may recognise Dubrovnik’s historic walls from the hit television show, Game of Thrones.

taking a gondola ride down the Grand Canal, passing icons like Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.

The treasures of Europe await. Scan to discover the best of both worlds.

ITALIAN LAKES, MEDITERRANEAN & ROMANTIC RHINE DISCOVERY

NETHERLANDS

Amsterdam Koblenz

FRANCE

Paris

Barcelona

SPAIN

RIVER CRUISE RAIL OCEAN CRUISE

GERMANY

RHINE GOR GE

Cologne Rudesheim Strasbourg Basel Breisach Mainz Heidelberg

Milan

Cannes

Palma Majorca

SWITZERLAND

Venice

Trieste

Rome Livorno/ Florence

Naples/ Pompeii

Messina (Sicily)

Split Dubrovnik

CROATIA

Corfu

ITALY

GREECE

SAILING ONBOARD NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY & AVALON WATERWAYS

This exclusive package includes return international flights, city stays in Milan, Venice, Barcelona and Paris, a 10 night Mediterranean cruise onboard Norwegian Breakaway with all-inclusive onboard beverages and an 8 day Rhine River cruise onboard Avalon Waterways.

RIVERBANKS TO SPARKLING SKIES Romantic

TWO WAYS TO DISCOVER EUROPE’S MOST ENCHANTING TREASURES

FROM THE PICTURESQUE RIVERBANKS OF THE RHINE TO THE CELESTIAL HUES OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS, EUROPE IS AN ENDLESS TREASURE TROVE OF BUCKET LIST DELIGHTS. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE CONTINENT’S MOST EXTRAORDINARY WONDERS ON THIS EXCLUSIVE OCEAN AND RIVER CRUISE HOLIDAY, AVAILABLE ONLY AT MY CRUISES.

EXPLORE THE ROMANTIC RHINE

What better way to begin the holiday of a lifetime than onboard a relaxed luxury river cruise along the Rhine? Stretching from the majestic Swiss Alps to the North Sea in Holland, the oh-so-romantic Rhine River is a diverse mosaic of history, culture, food, wine and landscapes.

As you sail down the picturesque riverbanks of the Rhine with Avalon Waterways, you’ll traverse four must-see European countries –Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands – exploring fairytale towns like Basel, Strasbourg, Cologne and Amsterdam along the way. At every point of your journey, expect to feast your sights on otherworldly scenery, from medieval castles to terraced vineyards to craggy clifftops. Plus, you’ll get to cross an array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites off your bucket list.

Best of all, Avalon’s luxurious river ships dock right in the heart of each destination, giving you more time to explore. Make the most of every

moment with Avalon’s captivating shore excursions, ranging from locally-led bicycle and walking tours to cooking and painting classes. At the end of each day of exploration, retreat to the luxury of your well-appointed Panorama Suite, which features the industry’s only Open Air Balcony. Talk about a view with a room!

GET MORE INCLUDED

So much more than just a cruise, this perfectly packaged holiday takes care of every single detail, so you can simply arrive and slip into exploration mode. Savour $4000 Bonus Value, including return international flights, scenic rail journeys, and hotel stays in the stunning cities of Zurich and London. Plus, your journey with Avalon includes gourmet food, local wine, and beer, complimentary wifi and daily onshore excursions led by expert guides.

While onboard your northern lights voyage with Norwegian Cruise Line, you’ll also get NCL’s Free at Sea benefits. Savour unlimited cocktails with your onboard beverage package, treat yourself to an extra-special meal with your specialty dining package, tick off bucket list moments with your shore excursion credit and share your wow-worthy aurora borealis shots with your loved ones back home with onboard wifi. Cruising has never felt more free.

CHASE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

As one of nature’s most spectacular displays, there’s no doubt that the aurora borealis will leave you wonderstruck. My Cruises has worked exclusively with Norwegian Cruise Line to curate the ultimate northern lights chasing itinerary onboard Norwegian Star.

Visiting Norway’s most treasured destinations, prepare to marvel at misty mountainscapes, sail amongst sparkling blue fjords and get lost in the cobblestoned streets of colourful coastal villages. Plus, sail above the Arctic Circle and enjoy late-night stays in the Arctic cities of Tromso and Alta, which offer a chance to watch as the aurora borealis paints the night sky in shimmering strokes of emerald, violet and magenta.

You can trust that My Cruises has timed this journey to ensure your best chance at glimpsing the northern lights in all their mystical glory. This ocean sailing departs in early October, considered one of the best times for an aurora borealis sighting, thanks to clearer skies and darker nights. Better yet, this next year marks a solar maximum, a time when auroral displays are at their most active and vibrant. An opportunity to see the northern lights like this doesn’t come around often.

Only available at My Cruises, this river and ocean cruise holiday is the perfect way to revel in Europe’s most magical destinations. Scan to secure your cabin on this limited-time offer.

This exclusive package includes return international flights, city stays in Zurich and London, an 8 day Rhine River cruise onboard Avalon Waterways and a 12 night Northern Lights Discovery cruise onboard Norwegian Star.

EUROPEAN RIVERS, ONE UNFORGETTABLE CRUISE

Whether it’s exploring historical landmarks, immersing yourself in diverse cultures, or enjoying scenic landscapes, the Danube and Rhine Rivers offer unique experiences, and combining both iconic rivers makes for the ideal European cruise holiday. Plus, to kick off your cruise the right way, My Cruises includes a Bonus scenic rail journey from Paris to Amsterdam. There’s no doubt about it – river cruising affords some of the best perspectives of the world, some of which you may not see otherwise. Here’s why it’s a good idea to cruise both the Rhine and Danube in one magnificent cruise holiday.

Fall in love with Two Iconic

THE DANUBE RIVER

DESTINATIONS

Glide through Germany, Austria, and Hungary. Along the Danube, you’ll visit Passau, Wachau Valley, Vienna, and Budapest. Wake in the morning to see uninterrupted views from your cabin window.

SCENERY

The Danube is quiet, green, and rural. As the river ribbons its way through the countryside, you’re blessed with rolling hills and picturesque vineyards on both sides. You needn’t move from your bed as you sail past stunning landscapes, farmhouses, grand castles, and centuries-old monuments. In Linz, the sunsets are unbelievable.

FOOD

Relish in hearty, comfort food like goulash, schnitzel, and Viennese pastries. The Wachau Valley produces some delicious varieties of wine. Its most famous is Grüner Veltliner, a dry white wine made from the grape variety of the same name.

ARCHITECTURE

Take your time wandering the stunning architecture at St Florian Monastery Library and Basilica in Vienna, then visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Take a guided walk in Passau with its classic Patrician houses. In Renensburg, marvel at the medieval walls in the only city that remained untouched during WWII. Sail past the iconic Budapest Parliament building.

EXPERIENCES

In Passau, hike through the forest for incredible views of the city. Take a guided tour through Český Krumlov. Follow the Sound of Music trail in Salzburg, Austria. Indulge in the Vienna city tour which gives you beautiful views of the town from St. Stevens tower. When in Vienna, we highly recommend viewing the optional Classical Music Concert. In Budapest, take the guided hike with your Adventure Guide. In Regensburg, enjoy lunch in the oldest sausage kitchen in the world!

THE RHINE RIVER Fall in love with

DESTINATIONS

This Rhine River cruise passes through Germany, France, and the Netherlands. You’ll be experiencing cities and towns like Amsterdam, Cologne, Rudesheim, Miltenburg, Wurzburg and more.

SCENERY

The Rhine River is known for its breathtaking scenery, particularly the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It winds past medieval castles, vineyards, quaint villages, quirky towns, narrow houses, and historic areas of French and German influence.

This fairytale fantasy is even more magical when witnessed from your window-facing bed.

FOOD

The Rhine passes through Germany so you can expect to dine on delicious pork and different types of sausages, followed by a slice of Black Forest chocolate cake for dessert and a glass of crisp Riesling. Onboard, you’ll indulge in a locally-sourced heart-healthy menu.

EXPERIENCES

For history buffs and castle lovers, the Rhine is for you. Avalon intentionally sails during the day through the famous Rhine Gorge so you can marvel at the 40+ castles and fortresses dotted all over the hills. You won’t find another place on the globe with more castles than this 65-kilometre UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Click to experience the Rhine and Danube Rivers on one incredible cruise holiday.

ARCHITECTURE

In Amsterdam, meander through charming neighbourhoods, take a bike ride or explore historic gems like the Anne Frank House. A canal cruise is an incredible way to see more of Amsterdam.

Throughout Germany, as you’re walking the streets, you can grab cocktails to go! In Cologne, don’t miss the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When in Rudesheim, the Rheingau Wine Museum is a must-visit.

MAGNIFICENT EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE DISCOVERY

This exclusive package includes return international flights, VIP international airport lounge access, a city stay in Paris and a 15 day relaxed luxury river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest onboard Avalon Waterways.

With everything from international flights, city stays and scenic rail journeys, these exclusive deals have your next cruise holiday effortlessly planned for you.

Expect pure relaxation and recreation, as and when you need it, on these unforgettable ocean and river journeys.

Discover more of the world with My Cruises on these perfectly packaged ocean and river cruises, hand-selected by the My Cruises Experts.

Whether you’re in the mood for dazzling romantic sunsets in the Greek Islands and Italian villages, a luxurious journey through stunning Scandinavia, or a decadent exploration of Paris and beyond, we’ve curated these exceptional itineraries to ensure you get the best of both worlds in river and ocean cruising. In each package, you’ll experience intimate sailing along the iconic Rhine River AND the feeling of freedom on an ocean cruise.

LUXURY

Adventure CHOOSE YOUR OWN

CUSTOMISE YOUR RIVER CRUISE ONSHORE EXPERIENCES

TAKE YOUR CRUISE HOLIDAY TO THE NEXT LEVEL AND SEE MORE BEYOND YOUR BEAUTIFUL CABIN AND SHIP. WITH AN EXCITING SELECTION OF CLASSIC, DISCOVERY AND ACTIVE EXCURSIONS, AVALON INVITES YOU TO TAILOR YOUR EXPERIENCE TO YOUR ENERGY LEVELS EACH DAY.

Whether you’re sailing the Danube, Rhine, Douro, or Seine River, design your days to perfectly suit your travelling style on land. Curb your curiosity in a collection of tours that allows you to see the world on your terms. Feel like speeding up at the start of the trip, but slowing down towards the end? No problem, your explorations are set to your mood. Whether you like to take it easy, get hands-on, or move your body, you’ll love an immersive river cruise with Avalon Waterways. Indulge, interact, and engage with the world – your way.

CLASSIC SIGHTSEEING

Created for the dreamer and listener, this classic sightseeing collection of tours gets you up close and personal with iconic places you’ve only dreamed of. With expert Avalon Local Guides, you’ll get preferred access to famous sites, gain insider knowledge and stories, and experience the true history and heritage of each incredible destination. Listen and learn on guided walking tours through ancient fortresses and majestic castles. Go back centuries and see the works of sculptors and painters. Follow sweet aromas and alluring fragrances. Trace the footsteps of those who have walked before us. Examine, be enlightened, and explore at your own pace.

DISCOVERY EXCURSIONS

This one’s for the learner and maker. Savour the moment and discover the world’s simple pleasures from grand artistry, and famous galleries, to farmhouse kitchens. Sip, saute, and stir up a dish from a recipe that’s been lovingly passed down through generations of locals. Combine paint colours to create new hues and bring an artwork to life that you’ll cherish forever. These hands-on tours awaken the senses, and each presents a heart-warming, mind-blowing experience. Hear a Viennese waltz, paint like Van Gogh, discover essential oils in a Provencal farmhouse, or grab an apron to whip up a local delicacy. Meet farmers and brewers to taste their divine secrets. Enjoy intimate gatherings, imitating the techniques of creators from bygone eras.

ACTIVE EXCURSIONS

For the mover and shaker, these tours are for you if you’re ready to relish the energy of engaging physically with the world around you. Greet the day with a guided e-bike, ride through vineyards, hike to a hilltop castle, or kayak through a European gorge for a whole new perspective of the world. Paddle through spectacular scenery or pedal around bustling antique towns. Move and be moved by stories while hiking through history on an adventure tour, and glimpse panoramic views at the peak of your trail. Cool off with a special underground wine tasting. Pedal, paddle, hike, climb, experiment, seize every moment, and dance your way through exhilarating experiences.

Select from My Cruises’ exclusive river packages and begin customising your Avalon journey today.