Avalon Expression is a very nice and pretty new ship. Crew was very attentive and shore excursions were well organized and probably the best part of the trip. Some rain dampened the scenic cruise of the Wachau Valley region and a couple of the shore excursions, but there is little you can do about that. Avalon has many umbrellas on hand. Biking tour of Vienna should not be missed, nor should Cesky Krumlov. Locks were fascinating.

Cabins were small, but comfortable. Bathrooms were well above average and water pressure was outstanding. Meals were good and service was excellent. Only complaint was the requirement to dock along side another 1 to 2 riverboats in most ports. Sewage smell permeated our side of the ship one night due to alignment of ships. There are clearly too many long boats on the Danube this time of year. Would definitely cruise on Avalon again.