As I set sail on a journey through the sun-kissed landscapes and charming villages of southern France, I uncovered the magic of a river cruise with Avalon Waterways.
From the historic streets of Avignon to the serene beauty of Port-Saint-Louis, each day held new adventures and cultural encounters.
With well-paced itineraries and a variety of inclusive excursions, the cruise struck the perfect balance between guided exploration and independent discovery.
The ship, Avalon Poetry II, offered lavish accommodations and a range of amenities, including delightful dining options highlighting regional cuisine and a dedication to sustainability.
As I relished breakfast buffets with a plethora of choices and embraced the thoughtful reduction of single-use plastics, it became clear that Avalon Waterways is devoted to providing a memorable and eco-conscious travel experience.
Join me as I recount the highlights of this exceptional river cruise and review its offerings in the heart of the South of France.
Key Takeaways
- Well-paced trip with included excursions every morning
- Wide range of excursion options for different interests and activity levels
- Culinary experiences, wine tastings, and local food tours
- Commitment to sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint
River Cruise Itinerary
The river cruise itinerary on Avalon Waterways' journey through the South of France offers a well-paced trip with daily included excursions, providing a balance of guided activities and independent exploration.
Each morning, we have the opportunity to participate in active excursions like biking, hiking, or kayaking, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the region.
Additionally, cultural tours of cities, towns, and landmarks provide enriching experiences, deepening our understanding of the local history and traditions.
After these invigorating activities, the afternoons are free for independent exploration or relaxation on the ship, offering the freedom to tailor the journey to our preferences.
This blend of active pursuits and cultural immersions truly makes the itinerary a remarkable and fulfilling experience.
Exciting Activities
I've thoroughly enjoyed participating in the active excursions offered by Avalon Waterways, immersing myself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the South of France.
The active excursions have provided me with a unique way to explore the region, from biking through charming villages to hiking along picturesque trails. These activities have allowed me to engage with the local environment, gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area.
Additionally, the cultural tours have been equally captivating, offering insightful experiences that showcase the history and traditions of the destinations. Exploring historic landmarks and vibrant towns has been a fascinating journey, providing a deeper understanding of the South of France's heritage.
The combination of active excursions and cultural tours has truly enriched my river cruise experience, allowing me to create unforgettable memories while embracing the freedom to explore.
Avalon Waterways Suites
Sailing on Avalon Waterways, I frequently enjoyed the comfort and amenities of their suites while exploring the South of France.
- Suite options: Spacious rooms with open-air balconies
- Onboard amenities: Comfortable beds and luxurious linens
- Suite options: Well-designed bathrooms with L'Occitane toiletries
- Onboard amenities: Large closets and ample storage space
- Suite options: Spectacular views of the passing scenery
The suites on Avalon Waterways' ships are designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience while cruising through the beautiful landscapes of the South of France. With spacious rooms featuring open-air balconies, well-designed bathrooms with L'Occitane toiletries, and large closets, the suites offer a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Additionally, the comfortable beds, luxurious linens, and spectacular views make for a truly indulgent experience onboard.
Ship Amenities
Enjoying the amenities onboard the Avalon Poetry II, I found the ship to be well-equipped for a comfortable and luxurious cruising experience. The ship boasts a range of amenities that cater to various preferences.
The Sky Lounge, Sky Grill, Whirlpool, and Lounge decks on the upper deck offer breathtaking views and relaxation. On the main level, the Panorama Lounge, Bistro, Club Lounge, and a small deck provide cozy spots to unwind. The lower level hosts the dining room and a fitness center, ensuring that guests can enjoy delectable meals and stay active during their cruise.
These amenities perfectly complement the scenic river cruise itinerary, allowing passengers to indulge in both the vibrant destinations and the onboard facilities. Overall, the ship amenities on the Avalon Poetry II enhance the entire river cruising experience, making it truly unforgettable.
Dining Options
The dining options aboard the Avalon Poetry II offer a variety of choices to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.
- Dining experiences showcase regional cuisine
- Menus cater to different dietary needs and preferences
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options available
- Complimentary wine and beer available for lunch and dinner
- Fresh and locally sourced ingredients used in meals
The dining experiences aboard the Avalon Poetry II are diverse and cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you have specific dietary needs or simply enjoy exploring different culinary options, the menus are designed to accommodate various tastes.
With an emphasis on regional cuisine and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, every meal offers a delightful and satisfying experience. Additionally, the availability of complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner further enhances the overall dining experience.
Sustainability Commitment
Avalon Waterways' sustainability commitment is evident in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and eliminate single-use plastics onboard. Their eco-friendly practices align with sustainable tourism initiatives.
They've significantly reduced paper waste onboard and work with local farmers to source fresh, locally produced ingredients for their meals, supporting communities and reducing transportation of food.
Additionally, the company is committed to using shore power when docked and is pledging to use biofuel. Their values are reflected in the dedication to implementing sustainable practices and the elimination of single-use plastics onboard.
This commitment to reducing plastic waste is evident throughout the ship, making it a suitable choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Overall, Avalon Waterways' sustainability efforts contribute to a more eco-friendly and responsible river cruise experience.
Breakfast Choices
I prefer the breakfast buffet on the Avalon Poetry II because it offers a variety of options every day. The breakfast menu caters to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
Here are some of the breakfast choices available:
- Freshly baked pastries, bread, and croissants
- A selection of fruits, yogurts, and cereals
- Made-to-order omelets and eggs
- Smoked salmon and assorted cheeses
- Gluten-free and vegan options
The breakfast service is convenient and satisfying, allowing guests to fuel up for the day's activities. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to indulge in a hearty breakfast, the Avalon Poetry II's breakfast buffet has something for everyone.
Environmental Values
Committed to sustainability, I appreciate Avalon Waterways' dedication to reducing their carbon footprint and implementing environmentally conscious practices. They've eliminated single-use plastics onboard and at operations offices, reducing paper waste by 80% and supporting local farmers to minimize food transportation.
Avalon Waterways pledges to use biofuel and shore power when docked, demonstrating their commitment to eco-friendly initiatives. Plastic bags aren't readily available on the ship, showcasing their values of reducing plastic waste. The staff's dedication to implementing sustainable practices is evident throughout the ship, aligning with environmentally conscious travel.
These sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also contribute to a more enjoyable and guilt-free travel experience, allowing guests the freedom to explore beautiful destinations without compromising their environmental values.
Plastic Reduction Initiatives
Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, I appreciate Avalon Waterways' efforts to reduce plastic waste aboard their ships. Their eco-friendly practices are evident throughout the ship, aligning with environmentally conscious travel.
- Refillable water stations available onboard
- Biodegradable or compostable alternatives to plastic used for packaging
- Straws made from sustainable materials or eliminated altogether
- Reusable shopping bags provided for excursions
- Collaboration with local communities for recycling initiatives
These initiatives not only reduce plastic waste but also contribute to a more responsible and environmentally friendly cruising experience.
It's reassuring to see a cruise line take proactive steps to minimize their environmental impact while still providing exceptional service and comfort for guests.
