Rhine River Cruise - Avalon Waterways Rhine River Cruise - Avalon Waterways
About
Embark on a journey where every day brings new romance and breathtaking European scenery. The 7-night Romantic Rhine Southbound River Cruise with Avalon Waterways is designed for couples seeking unforgettable shared experiences, from charming cobblestone streets to scenic vineyards and majestic castles. Each day offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and leisurely exploration along one of Europe’s most iconic rivers.
Departing from Amsterdam, this immersive itinerary winds south through the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland, visiting vibrant cities like Cologne, Rüdesheim, Strasbourg, and Basel. Discover storybook towns, picturesque vineyards, and UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way, with each stop offering romantic walks, wine tastings, and local experiences to create memories together.
Step onboard your Avalon Suite Ship, an intimate floating retreat designed with couples in mind. Relax in stylish staterooms with panoramic windows, enjoy gourmet dining with open seating, and unwind in elegant lounges, on the sun deck, or at the wellness centre. From live music to enriching excursions, every moment on board is designed to feel both luxurious and relaxed.
Highlights include a scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge, wine tasting at historic Johannisberg Castle, cycling or strolling through Strasbourg’s La Petite France, and exploring the Black Forest or medieval Freiburg. Each day offers the perfect balance of guided adventures and free time to explore at your own pace.
Whether it’s your first European river cruise or a romantic getaway to celebrate love, this Rhine adventure promises magical landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences to share together.
Set sail with Avalon Waterways and discover the romance, culture, and beauty of the Rhine River—your unforgettable European escape awaits.
- Cruise through iconic Rhine landscapes, from medieval castles to charming wine villages
- Stylish suites with panoramic windows, all meals included, and onboard entertainment for relaxed luxury
- Guided excursions and optional activities lets you explore culture, history, and local flavours at your own pace
Overview
At a glance
About The Ship
Avalon Envision
Step onboard Avalon Envision, a modern, elegant river cruise ship designed to make your journey as enjoyable as your destinations. As one of the newest additions to the fleet, Envision brings together comfort, style and effortless relaxation along Europe’s waterways.
Throughout the ship you’ll find inviting public spaces where you can unwind or socialise. Recline in the airy Panorama Lounge or Observation Lounge as the river drifts by, sip a drink in the bar, or curl up in the Club Lounge with a book, a board game or friendly conversation. Avalon Waterways
Meals on board are a treat - enjoy freshly prepared dishes in the glass-walled main Dining Room, casual bites at the Panorama Bistro, or an al-fresco dinner on the Sky Deck’s Sky Grill when the weather tempts you.
For those who like to stay active, there’s a fitness centre and an Adventure Centre stocked with bikes and gear, plus an onboard Adventure Host to help you plan active excursions ashore.
And when it’s time to relax, head up to the Sky Deck where lounge chairs, a whirlpool, deck games, and open-air views make it the perfect spot to soak up the scenery or unwind after a day exploring
Avalon Vista
Step aboard Avalon Vista - a graceful river cruise ship designed for comfort, easygoing style, and unforgettable journeys down Europe’s waterways. With its sleek design and welcoming public spaces, Vista sets the stage for a relaxed, elegant cruise from the moment you step on board.
Unwind in the ship’s bright and airy lounges as the river flows by, whether you’re enjoying a drink in the lounge bar, reading a book in the comfy lounge spaces, or simply gazing out at the passing scenery. Mealtime is relaxed and refined: choose from full-service dining in the main dining room, casual meals or snacks in the bistro-style dining area, or alfresco bites on the deck when the weather calls for it.
For downtime, head to the Sky Deck, where lounge chairs, open-air views and a laid-back ambiance make it perfect for watching the world go by or enjoying each other’s company under the sky.
Whether you’re sharing a glass of wine in the lounge, dining under gentle lights after a day’s exploring, or relaxing above the river on deck, Avalon Vista offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a tranquil floating home.
Cabins
Both Avalon Vista and Avalon Envision offer thoughtfully designed cabins that blend comfort, convenience, and scenic views whether you prefer a cosy retreat or a panoramic suite with sweeping windows. All cabins onboard are equipped with the following amenities to ensure a comfortable stay:
- 1 Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Premium bed linens & matress toppers
- Nightly turn-down service
- L'Occitane bath products
- Bathrobes & slippers
- hairdryer
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Well-stocked minibar with complimentary filtered water
- In-room safe
- Individual climate control
- Shower
- Make-up mirror
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Deluxe Stateroom
Ideal for couples seeking a comfortable base with all essentials. Deluxe Staterooms provide a cozy, functional space to relax after a day of exploring.
Panorama Suite
If you're looking to travel in elevated comfort and enjoy the beauty of the Rhine (or Europe’s waterways) in style, the Panorama Suite offers a large panoramic wall of windows - perfect for enjoying sweeping views of the riverside from the comfort of your own cabin.
Royal Suite
The Royal Suite offers luxurious, spacious accommodations with panoramic river views, premium amenities, and an elevated level of comfort for a truly indulgent cruise experience.
Dining
Dining on Avalon Vista and Avalon Envision is all about fresh flavours, relaxed elegance, and plenty of choice. From regionally inspired dishes to familiar favourites, every meal is crafted with locally sourced ingredients and paired with complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner. Start your morning with a made-to-order breakfast, enjoy leisurely lunches, and wind down with beautifully prepared evening meals - all included in your river cruise experience.
Main Dining Room
The heart of the ship’s culinary experience, the Dining Room offers open-seating meals that blend classic dishes with regional specialities from the countries you sail through. Floor-to-ceiling windows make every breakfast, lunch, or dinner feel like a scenic event, with menus that evolve daily to keep things fresh and exciting.
Panorama Bistro
A more casual, intimate alternative, the Panorama Bistro serves up lighter bites and relaxed, tapas-style dining. It’s perfect for evenings when you want a laid-back meal paired with wine, soft music, and views of the river drifting by.
Sky Grill
When the weather’s warm, head up to the Sky Deck for alfresco dining at the Sky Grill. Think grilled favourites, fresh salads, and open-air lunches served with a side of sunshine and panoramic river views.
Bars & Lounges
Unwind with a drink in the Panorama Lounge or grab a coffee in the Club Lounge, both ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. Whether you prefer a glass of regional wine, a classic cocktail, or a warm cup of tea, friendly service and comfortable spaces make every sip feel special.
FlexDining®
Both ships offer Avalon’s signature FlexDining®, giving you the freedom to dine when and where you like. Choose your tablemates, linger over dessert, or enjoy a quicker bite before evening entertainment - it’s dining designed around your day, not the other way around.
Faqs
What's included with my sailing?
- Seven nights in a Deluxe stateroom or Panorama suite aboard the Avalon Vista or Avalon Envision
- Full-board plus basis
- All dining experiences including four-course dinners, room service, afternoon tea, and snacks
- Wine, beer, and soft drinks included at lunch and dinner
- Complimentary happy hour every night (except the first) with wine, beer and specialty cocktails
- 24-hour Club Lounge access with complimentary specialty teas and coffees
- Evening entertainment including trivia, dance parties and themed events
- Choice of immersive small-group explorations at each destination
- Included bike and e-bike hire
- Complimentary wellness and fitness classes
- Flights included from your selected airport to Amsterdam, Netherlands, returning from Basel, Switzerland
- Return shared transfers from airport to ship
- One piece of hand and hold luggage allowed per person
Are gratuitities included in my cruise fare?
Yes, gratuities are included as a standard with Avalon waterways - allowing you to enjoy a seamless stress-free voyage.
What is the onboard dress code?
Avalon cruises embrace a relaxed, casual style, perfect for excursions and scenic days on deck, with layers and comfortable walking shoes recommended. Evenings are casual, though guests may choose to dress up slightly for special events like the Captain’s Reception or Farewell Dinner.
Itinerary
Day 1: UK – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Arrive in Amsterdam and board your cruise ship, your cozy floating home for the week. Explore charming Zaanse Schans with its iconic windmills, then relax on board as evening falls.
Day 2: Amsterdam – Cologne, Germany
Enjoy a guided walking tour or romantic canal cruise in Amsterdam, then spend the afternoon wandering galleries, shops, and cafés at your leisure. In the late afternoon, your ship sets sail for scenic Cologne.
Day 3: Cologne – Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
Wake up in Cologne and choose between cycling through the city, exploring its Jewish heritage, or visiting the Gothic cathedral. Sip a local Kölsch and enjoy live music on board before cruising to Rüdesheim.
Day 4: Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
Cruise through the stunning Rhine Gorge, home to castles and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei. In Rüdesheim, hike vineyards, visit the Mechanical Music Museum, or enjoy a wine tasting at Johannisberg Castle.
Day 5: Rüdesheim – Heidelberg/Mainz – Kehl, Germany
Visit Heidelberg’s castle or the Philosophenweg, or explore Mainz and the Gutenberg Museum. Return to the ship for a relaxing dinner as you sail to Kehl.
Day 6: Kehl – Strasbourg, France – Breisach, Germany
Discover Strasbourg by bike or on a city tour, including La Petite France and the Gothic cathedral, or join optional excursions to Alsace wine country or the Maginot Line. The ship then sails overnight to Breisach.
Day 7: Breisach – Basel, Switzerland
Explore the Black Forest’s open-air museum and traditional mills, Freiburg’s medieval streets, or take an optional trip to picturesque Colmar. Enjoy your final evening on board as the Rhine winds toward Basel.
Day 8: Basel – UK
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Rhine and head to Basel Airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of a romantic European river cruise.
