Avalon Creativity Review
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This was our first ever cruise experience and overall we loved it. If you've never tried river cruising you really should. The ship sails along at a leisurely pace and you'd barely know you were moving. There are 3 full meals a day in the spacious dining room, and opportunities for snacking and tea in the late afternoons and evenings, all at no extra charge. Drinks at the on-board bar are extra. There are many opportunities for excursions at each port, and optional extra excursions are available at an additional charge. These may be purchased about a month before your cruise date on-line, or may be added as an on-board extra, provided there is space available.
The ship is a few years old (2009), but is still in beautiful shape and is very nicely appointed. Plenty of opportunities for relaxation and/or conversation in the ship's many public areas, so you don't ever have an excuse for sitting cooped up in that tiny cabin. And the food is EXCELLENT, especially at dinnertime, where you can enjoy a 5-course meal with complimentary wine, beer or soft drinks.
The ship's intimate atmosphere is one of its best selling points. With only 70 cabins (140 passengers) and 39 crew members, there are plenty of opportunities to make and cultivate new friendships.
Cabin Review
Very comfortable though slightly cramped. Bed was very nice. Sliding "French" balcony provided lovely view of passing scenery. Adequate storage for clothing and belongings, but only for cruises of this length. There was room for 4 suitcases under the bed. Room was quiet except for occasional plumbing noises (gurgling in the sink drain), and occasional creaking noise caused by ship movement. Bathroom was tight. Shower had barely enough room to turn around in, and water leaked out onto the floor at the bottom of the shower door.