For those wanting to experience the Rhine River, a river cruise aboard a small cruise ship of 150 passengers or less might be the best way to see a lot in a few days. Avalon Waterways is one of the newest fleets on the Rhine, and throughout Europe and the world. Like most luxury river cruise lines making their way down the rivers of Europe, Avalon offers spacious accommodations and fine dining.
River Cruises Offer Tours and Side Trips, Many Free of Charge
But while the mode of travel might be nice enough to lure passengers to stay aboard, the tours and offerings at each stop allow those traveling to make the most of their time. Avalon Waterways is owned by Globus Family of Brands, a company which has been helping people see the world for decades. When they waded into the river cruise business they already had a cadre of great tour guides available to share their expertise.
Germany a Highlight for Rhine River Cruises
Take for instance a stop in Heidelbury, Germany. The ship docks at Speyer, Germany, a great town on its own to experience the food and people of the country. With a lovely cathedral, bell tower and other churches and sights including an aviation museum, the sparkling clean town is a nice place to wander the side streets and stop for a coffee.
The afternoon means a drive by bus through the countryside to the beautiful town of Heidelberg. The drive itself allows time for the tour guide to educate those going on what they will see. Then, thanks to wireless headsets, a tour of the castle in Heidelberg is a highlight of the trip, ending with some ice wine tastings and a little time to shop before heading back to the ship.
Speaking of castles, the cruise through the Rhine Gorge offers spectacular views of some of the most beautiful castles in the world and a look at the legendary rock of the Lorelei as well.
River Cruising Gives Passengers a Relaxing Mode of Travel
Traveling at night is relaxing, despite the noise going through some of the locks. Evenings on board give guests a chance to get to know each other. One of the nice touches of an Avalon Waterways cruise is that wine with dinner is included in the fare and the waiters keep it flowing freely, which keeps conversation flowing well also.
France and Holland Wonderful Stops on River Cruises
Other extras include a trip on a glass boat in Strasburg, France, which is an included tour. Seeing the beautiful city from the water is a treat. The swans floating along, the lovely flowers and houses, all make it a day to remembers. The Alsace region's wines and food is spectacular and a short visit in the town gives time to see the cathedral and sample some of the specialities of the region as well.
The vibrant city of Amesterdam completes the trip, with visits to the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh musem a must. There was even an after dinner tour of the Red Light District for those adventurous enough. River cruises are leisurely and an easy and pleasant way to sample the lovely sights of Europe.
Rebecca Johnston - Rebecca Johnston is a newspaper columnist and former editor with a published collection of her columns, "Hometown Holidays, Memories ...
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