This was our first river cruise. We have been on several ocean cruises, which we love, but this river cruise was better. Nothing could have been better about this cruise (northbound Rhine cruise from Basel to Amsterdam) - the ship, the cruise itself, the staff, the food, the shore excursions. We knew nothing about Avalon. We took this particular cruise because it fit into our schedule. And it was wonderful. We did have to bus from Basel to Strasbourg because of high water, but what we missed seeing was mainly at night. Instead they booked an excursion up Mount Pilatus by gondola and cog railway. It was wet and cold and foggy, but still fun. The excursions that came with the cruise were all exceptionally well handled and had wonderful guides. The groups were small, and individual hearing devices were used so you could hear everything the guide said..

The only entertainment was music in the public areas, but one night some of the staff put on a show, which was lots of fun. The ships are small (100 passengers), so there is no need nor room for entertainment - just enjoy talking to your fellow passengers and watching the beautiful scenery. There is a tiny exercise room. The cabins are not too small and had plenty of storage. We could not hear our neighbors at all.The food was fabulous and plentiful. There were always soft drinks, tea and coffee available in one of the public areas. Plus some kind of pastries. Embarkation and disembarkation went so smoothly it was amazing compared to large ocean cruise ships. We would absolutely take another of their cruises.