For years Avalon Waterways has catered to its guests who wanted relaxed luxury, a window into the destinations they sailed through and a taste of what was on offer; from the history and food to the shopping and scenery.
Avalon Waterways designed ships that encouraged socialising amongst guests and crew, and developed included tours that were sure to showcase the best of the best in each port.
And when travellers revealed they were seeking even more interactive, more immersive tour experiences, Avalon Waterways crafted Active Discovery cruises. These itineraries cater to the active traveller; those who crave movement and action on their travels, as well as the guests who want to discover the hidden gems of a place or learn the local secrets.
Active Discovery on the Rhine
Departing from either Amsterdam or Wiesbaden, Germany, this seven-night, eight-day itinerary is available north to south or vice versa. Snaking its way through Germany and the Netherlands, guests will discover both well-known and off-the-beaten-path treasures at each stop, via their choice of active outing. These include climbing the UNESCO World Heritage Marksburg Castle in Braubach; cycling along the Rhine; participating in a re-enactment of Roman Games in Xanten, or joining a running tour in Amsterdam.
For those looking to discover the gems of the area, guests will also have the option to sip on the fine local wines at a tasting in Eltville, learn the art of chocolate at the Chocolate Museum in Cologne and try German delicacies during a culinary tour in Duisburg. Walk the mining corridors of an ancient volcano, marvel at a live concert at Castle Engers, and visit the Zollverein Coal Mine, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or perhaps take part in a Roman Clothes Workshop and get creative with a paintbrush at a painting class in Amsterdam.
From 2019, all ships on the Active Discovery itinerary will feature suite rooms with floor-to-ceiling open air balconies and the bed perfectly positioned facing towards the water, ideal for taking in the scenery.
The FlexDining™ option allows guests to choose when and where they want to dine onboard, with a choice of three different restaurants. Featuring mouthwatering cuisine from regional delicacies to traditional favourites, as well as Avalon’s Avalon Fresh menu, offering an array of healthy dining options.
The inclusions of active and discovery excursions mean those who’ve always loved Avalon Waterways can now enjoy a more hands-on travel experience and for those who haven’t considered river cruising in the past, the new excursions and approach might just tempt them to take a look.
Visit Avalon Waterways: https://www.avalonwaterways.com.au/en/2018/europe-river-cruises/popular-river-cruises/popular-river-cruises/tour?prod=2018.WAW-E&tourcode=WAW
