SPOTLIGHT ON
Avalon's New Panorama — a Unique "Suite Ship"

Have you ever looked at a word, known what it meant, frequently used it, but were not quite sure of its current context? I have. As we put this article together, that word was “inspired.” Sure, it’s a word that we all use, maybe even every day, but in the context of a new Europe river cruise ship I had my doubts.

So, we pulled out our old Webster’s unabridged dictionary, and “the light went on.” Besides inspired, the other two most relevant words we came up with were “brilliant” and “creative.” We then completely understood why Avalon Waterways chose “inspiring” to primarily describe the extraordinary features to be found on their newest ship, the Avalon Panorama, launched in the spring of 2011 and now sailing the Danube and Rhine Rivers.

When we discussed the ship with Avalon management, they told us something we had rarely heard from a river cruise line… that every element of the Avalon cruise experience and the Panorama were traveler-inspired. Also called the “Suite Ship," you’ll immediately see how this translates into more space, more comfort, and more enjoyment aboard the Panorama on your next Europe river cruise. Guess that means they really have been listening to their guests! From her length, a robust 443 feet to her onboard features, she’ll be one of the longest and most beautiful contemporary ships sailing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. It’s this added length (about 80 feet longer than most ships) that has allowed Avalon to create a very modern, striking, spacious and comfortable ship.

With the introduction of the Panorama (view DECK PLAN), Avalon Waterways will unveil a new concept in stateroom design and comfort created especially for river cruising — the Panorama Suite. In addition to her 17 large, deluxe staterooms on the lower deck (172 sq. ft.), this “Suite Ship” will feature 64 of the new-concept queen-bed suites located on the upper two decks, each offering 200 square feet of luxurious living space. The new suite design features a large seating area (see diagram) set next to the floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window that opens to a width of 7 feet. When fully open, the nearly 11-foot wide by 7-foot tall window transforms the suite into your own personal, indoor/outdoor open-air balcony — bringing the outside inside so you don’t miss a thing.

To those fortunate enough to sail in a Panorama Suite, that design translates into being able to experience the most breathtaking views of the river and shoreline available on any European river cruise ship. No other ship can match this “open-air” concept! Can you imagine cruising the Danube on a warm summer’s eve, delighting in the passing magical scenery while the sweet fragrances of jasmine, lavender and other flora that line the banks waft gently into your cabin? Oh, yes!

For those looking for even more opulence on the rivers, imagine sailing in one of the Panorama’s two Royal Suites which offer guests a whopping 300 square feet of decadently furnished comfort. These may in fact be the most beautifully designed and decorated cabins of any river ship in the world!

Inspired by discerning Avalon guests, every element of the Panorama's onboard experience will appeal to your senses, too. Some enhancements, including fresh flowers in each stateroom and premium l'Occitane products are ever so subtle. Other offerings such as large designer marble bathrooms, all new Avalon-branded deluxe bedding (queen or twin), and perfectly balanced, warm interiors with natural lighting, to put it simply. The inspiring, elegant suites also come equipped with a flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels; wi-fi access; and a well-stocked mini-bar. Combined together, these elements provide every guest with a pampered, unique feeling of space, freedom and comfort not previously found on European river cruise ships.

Inspiring is a word that also very easily translates to the dining experience you’ll enjoy on the new Panorama, as well as every one of Avalon’s young fleet of European river cruise ships. All Avalon ships incorporate menus featuring local fare prepared by chefs who are experts at hand-crafting local ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Making dinner even more unforgettable, you’ll also enjoy complimentary regional wines specially paired to the nightly creations.

This inspired ship will sail equally inspirational itineraries in 2011. Panorama will sail the most popular, most demanded Europe river cruise route: the incredible, 15-day Magnificent Europe cruise from Amsterdam down to Budapest (or reverse direction) from late May through November. Can you imagine what it would be like to sail through the Iron Gates or past the Melk Abbey, and be able to take it all in while sitting in the comfort and luxury of your indoor/outdoor suite? She’ll also do what we believe is the most under-rated river cruise anywhere… the Christmastime (Holiday Markets) cruises on the Danube River. These exciting, early winter 8 and 9-day itineraries begin in late November and go through the Christmas/New Years periods. They're not only fun cruises, but exceptional values.

If you’ve ever dreamed about what a real Yuletide Festival is like — you know, the ones that are the root of all the traditions enjoyed in the States — then you’ll absolutely love these itineraries. Don’t be put off by the PERCEPTION we in the States have about the weather in Europe; at that time of the year, it’s actually a bit warmer than it would be in New York City. Who knows? If you’re lucky you might even get a dusting of snow one evening as you stroll the cobblestone streets of a picturesque medieval town or village along the Rhine or Danube Rivers. You’ll also enjoy some incredible shopping, sip warm “toddies” as you browse local festivals in the early evening, enjoy carolers and much, much more. Just think: snow-globe magic, no crowds, extraordinary accommodations, sumptuous cuisines and wines, incredible ports.

These fabulous Holiday Market cruises aboard the beautiful Panorama start at a truly “inspirational” $1719 per person, and remember… that price includes all most everything but your low airfare. So, while we cannot guarantee the snow, try one and we think you’ll have found a sparkling, new best winter vacation of choice for many holiday periods to come. The Holiday Market cruises are extremely well priced, you say, but what about high season prices? After all, a new ship, all that space, all those extra features are sure to cost more, right? Not really! We checked out the Panorama’s advance pricing, and for the most part found it to be priced very similarly to other Avalon ships on the same itineraries.

The best way to ensure you have the inside scoop on Avalon Waterways and their fleet of "Suite Ships," and to get the best price on your river cruise, is to book now with one of the cruise experts at Premier River Cruises. Give us a call at 1-855-255-1200, toll free, to begin discussing your river or small ship cruise plans. No time to call right now? Use the cruisGENIE™ Cruise Search Tool to begin searching for your perfect cruise vacation.