A different way to go. There are so many ways to explore the world, but nothing compares to the "just right" feel of an Avalon river cruise. http://www.avalonwaterways.com.au/
1. AVA L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U
RIVER CRUISES
2 0 1 7 A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S
2. 3
A DIFFERENT WAY TO GO: There are so many
ways to explore the world, but nothing compares
to the “just right” feel of an Avalon river cruise. River
cruising transports you at just the right pace...with just
the right amenities and just the right views. And those
enchanting castles and medieval villages? Your Avalon
ship delivers you just right there...in the heart of it all.
Add in our enriching experiences, included excursions,
unmatched service, and mouthwatering cuisine and
you’ve got the Avalon difference—a difference that’s
just right.
3
A V A L O N R I V E R C R U I S E S
JUST
RIGHT
3. G O W H E R E Y O U R
DREAMS
TA K E Y O U
You dream of waking to views so epic they take your breath
away...on a romantic mini-break, an extended exploration, or
maybe on something in between. With Avalon, you awaken
to the best of Europe, Southeast Asia, or South America...so,
go ahead. Join us and follow your dream.
4 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 5
FESTIVE SEASON
188 Christmastime in Alsace
Germany
— Zürich to Frankfurt
WZF 5 days
— Frankfurt to Basel
WFZ 5 days
190 Christmas in the Heart
of Germany
— Frankfurt to Prague
WFN 8 days
— Prague to Frankfurt
WNF 8 days
192 Christmastime on
the Danube
— Prague to Vienna
WNV 9 days
— Vienna to Prague
WVN 9 days
YANGTZE RIVER
196 Magical China the
Yangtze River
— Beijing to Shanghai
WYC 12 days
200 Cultural China Tibet
with Yangtze River
Cruise
— Shanghai to Beijing
WXY 16 days
204 Enchanting China the
Yangtze River
— Beijing to Shanghai
WCY 16 days
SOUTHEASTASIA
212 Fascinating Vietnam,
Cambodia the
Mekong River
— Ho Chi Minh City
to Siem Reap
WHS 13 days
— Siem Reap to
Ho Chi Minh City
WSH 13 days
222 Golden Myanmar the .
Alluring Irrawaddy
— Yangon to Yangon
WBK 14 days
— Yangon to Yangon
WKB 14 days
SOUTH AMERICA
230 From the Inca Empire to
the Peruvian Amazon
— Lima to Lima
WAM 11 days
236 Ecuador Its
Galápagos Islands
— Quito to Quito
WBG 9 days
240 Discover the Galápagos
Peru
— Lima to Quito
WGG 15 days
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
244 Combine Your Cruise
with a Monograms
Independent City Stay
249 Combine Your Cruise
with a Globus Tour
252 Avalon Ship Amenities /
Included for Every
Guest / Details
254 Dining / Other Choices
256 Avalon Suite Ships
260 Also Cruising in Europe
263 Avalon Siem ReapSM
264 Avalon MyanmarSM
265 Century Legend
266 Isabela II
267 Amazon Discovery
268 What You Need
To Know On Board
269 Avalon Gives You
More Value
271 Terms Conditions
RECENTAWARDS
THE AVALON FLEET
Avalon Passion®
(2016)*
Avalon Imagery II®
(2016)*
Avalon Tapestry II®
(2015)*
Avalon Tranquility II®
(2015)*
Avalon Illumination®
(2014)*
Avalon ImpressionSM
(2014)*
Avalon Poetry II®
(2014)*
Avalon Artistry II®
(2013)*
Avalon Expression®
(2013)*
Avalon Visionary®
(2012)*
Avalon VistaSM
(2012)*
Avalon PanoramaSM
(2011)*
Avalon Felicity®
(2010)
Avalon Luminary®
(2010)
Avalon Affinity®
(2009)
Avalon Creativity®
(2009)
*denotes Suite Ship®
RIVERS OF FRANCE
28 Paris to Normandy
— Paris to Paris
WPP 8 days
32 Burgundy Provence
— Paris to Côte d’Azur
WJL 11 days
— Côte d’Azur to Paris
WLJ 11 days
42 Grand France
— Paris to Côte d’Azur
WPL 16 days
— Côte d’Azur to Paris
WLP 16 days
52 Rhine Rhône
Revealed
— Amsterdam to
Côte d’Azur
WAL 16 days
— Côte d’Azur to
Amsterdam
WLA 16 days
WATERWAYS OF
HOLLAND BELGIUM
58 Tulips of Northern
Holland
— Amsterdam to
Amsterdam
WHA 8 days
62 Holland Belgium with
Tulips in Early Spring
— Amsterdam to Brussels
WAX 8 days
— Brussels to Amsterdam
WXA 8 days
66 Enchanting Belgium
— Amsterdam to Namur
WAN 9 days
— Brussels to Amsterdam
WNA 9 days
RHINE MOSELLE
70 Romantic Rhine
— Zürich to Amsterdam
WZA 8 days
— Amsterdam to Basel
WAZ 8 days
76 Canals, Vineyards
Paris
— Paris to Amsterdam
WRA 10 days
— Amsterdam to Paris
WAR 10 days
82 The Rhine Moselle
— Amsterdam to Basel
WARZ 13 days
— Zürich to Amsterdam
WZRA 13 days
UPPER DANUBE
88 NEW! Active Discovery
on the Danube
— Linz to Budapest
WLB 9 days
— Budapest to Linz
WBL 9 days
98 A Taste of the Danube
— Budapest to Vienna
WBV 8 days
— Vienna to Budapest
WVB 8 days
102 Danube Symphony
— Vienna to Munich
WVP 9 days
— Munich to Vienna
WPV 9 days
106 Danube Dreams
— Prague to Budapest
WPB 10 days
— Budapest to Prague
WBP 12 days
112 The Legendary Danube
— Prague to Budapest
WNB 11 days
118 The Blue Danube
Discovery
— Budapest to Prague
WBN 13 days
LOWER DANUBE
124 Balkan Discovery
— Budapest to Bucharest
WBO 10 days
130 The Danube from the
Black Sea to Budapest
— Bucharest to Budapest
WOB 12 days
MULTI-RIVER
CRUISES
136 Central European
Experience
— Paris to Prague
WRN 12 days
— Prague to Paris
WNR 12 days
142 The Upper Rhine to the
City of Music / Vienna
on the Danube to Basel
on the Rhine
— Zürich to Vienna
WZV 13 days
— Vienna to Basel
WVZ 13 days
148 Magnificent Europe
— Amsterdam to Budapest
WAB 15 days
— Budapest to Amsterdam
WBA 15 days
158 Jewels of Central
Europe
— Paris to Budapest
WRB 17 days
— Budapest to Paris
WBR 19 days
164 Grand Danube Cruise
— Prague to Bucharest
WNO 18 days
170 From the Danube Delta
to Prague
— Bucharest to Prague
WON 20 days
176 Iconic Rivers of
Europe—the Rhine, Main
Danube
— Amsterdam to Bucharest
WAO 22 days
182 From the Black Sea to
the North Sea
— Bucharest to Amsterdam
WOA 24 days
Best Overall
River Cruising
Best River Cruise Ship
Top River
Cruise Lines
Best Cabins in River Cruising
Best River
Cruise Line
4. STATEROOMS THAT ENHANCE YOUR
EXPERIENCE: Featured on all of our Suite
Ships®
, Avalon’s revolutionary Panorama SuitesSM
are the most unique accommodations in river
cruising. Thirty percent larger than industry
standard and featuring huge wall-to-wall, floor-to-
ceiling Open-Air Balconies®
, even the placement
of the bed is distinct, so you won’t miss a single
passing riverscape.
See page 259 to see all the great features and
amenities in our staterooms and suites.
6 7
T H E O N E O N LY
Bed with
A view
Welcome to the most innovative thing in stateroom design. We
threw out the industry standards—and re-invented everything
from the ground up. Your entire experience revolves around your
comfort and enjoyment.
5. 8 9
T H E A R T O F M A K I N G Y O U F E E L
AT HOME
Our crew embodies the same spirit our company does—you first,
no matter what. So, once you’re on board, our common goal is to
keep you feeling perfectly taken care of every step of the way.
OUR SHIP, YOUR CASTLE: From the captain
and bartender to your cabin steward and wait
staff, we always deliver exquisite service that’s
professional, friendly, and comfortable—never
stuffy! With Avalon, our ships become your home
away from home.
6. LOCAL FAVOURITESSM
FOR AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES:
On board, ourLocal Favourites give you an enriching
glimpse into your destination’s culture and traditions.
Enjoy a wide range of activities, like food and wine
tastings, demonstrations by local artisans, talks by
experts about the areas through which you’re traveling,
and lively performances by local entertainers.
‹‹In the mood to explore like a local? Your Avalon ship has
bicycles you can check out and use around many port
towns for free!
10 11
TRUE
DISCOVERIES
N E V E R S TA R T W I T H B I G C R O W D S
No two travellers are alike—so, why should we expect you to enjoy all the same
things? With more expertly-led discovery options than any other cruise line, we
make it possible for you to explore each port according to what intrigues you most.
7. Avalon Choice lets you personalise your cruise daily
at no extra cost. You decide what and where to eat on
board, how you want to be entertained, the things you
want to do on board, and even the style and pace of
most included shore excursions. To customise your
experience further, you can select and pre-purchase
additional activities and excursions online.
12 13
Y O U R V O YA G E
YOUR
WAY
Youmaybecruisingwithus,butyourexperiences
will be truly your own. At every turn, we go out
of our way to make it possible for you to do as
you please…according to your own interests.
8. THE RIGHT INCLUSIONS: We’ve designed a cruise
experience that includes all the right things...but still leaves
room for your own preferences. That’s why every Avalon
cruise includes shore excursions with Local Guides; beer,
and wine (including from the region), with all onboard
lunches and dinners; free Wi-Fi; a choice of dining options
and venues; onboard enrichment activities; and, of course,
outside staterooms to take it all in. Then, we give you
choices to help you spend your time and money your way.
It’s the difference between expensive all-inclusive options
and just the right inclusive.
See page 252 to see everything that’s included for every
Avalon guest.
14 15
T H E T H I N G S Y O U W A N T
INCLUDED
A L R E A D Y A R E
We want your experience with us to be as rich as possible, and have
included everything that we know will be important to your cruise
enjoyment.
9. LOOK AS CLOSELY AS YOU LIKE: From free Wi-Fi
to the plushest towels…from premium spirits at the upscale
bar to a state-of-the-art fitness centre…from luxurious
L’Occitane®
bath products to delectable complimentary
Lavazza coffees…our passion for pampering you is evident!
See page 253 to learn more about our commitment to
the details.
16 17
T H E A V A L O N D I F F E R E N C E I S I N
THE
DETAILS
When you’re on holiday, you deserve the best of everything. After all,
you’ve earned it. That’s why we dedicate our full attention to even
the smallest details. By leaving no stone unturned, we ensure you can
enjoy the best river cruise possible.
10. THE DINING OPTIONS YOU CRAVE: Buffets,
four-course dinners, Continental breakfasts, al fresco lunch
at the Sky Bistro, delectable petite portions in the Panorama
Bistro so you can sample a wide variety of foods…Avalon
gives you lots of choices. And because we start with fresh,
quality ingredients prepared by expert chefs, you’ll look
forward to each meal the same way you look forward to
each port.
See page 254 to learn about our extensive menu of
dining choices.
19
P L E N T Y O F O P T I O N S TA N TA L I S I N G
LOCAL
FLAVOURS
From the first bite to the last “Mmmmm,” Avalon frees your tastebuds from
the ordinary. At breakfast, lunch, and dinner, try mouthwatering recipes from
the region through which you’re traveling—or more familiar Western dishes, if
that’s your preference. With Avalon, we make every meal part of the journey.
18
11. TO YOUR HEALTH: Maintaining your healthy lifestyle
on holiday shouldn’t be difficult—and with Avalon, it isn’t,
because we’re as committed to your well-being as you are!
We make it easy to stay active…with our state-of-the-art,
onboard Fitness Centre, free bicycles available for use in
select ports, and complimentary Nordic walking sticks to put
that extra spring in your step. And at the end of each busy
day, how about a little salus per aquam (health from water)
with a relaxing soak in the Sky Deck’s rejuvenating whirlpool?
21
I N T R O D U C I N G
AVALON FRESHSM
2020
Think healthy food should also taste good? We do, too. And while Avalon cruises have always
provided a selection of nutritious, delicious recipes, this year, we’re really raising the bar with
Avalon Fresh! We’ve teamed up with two of Europe’s rising culinary stars, the Wrenkh brothers,
to design an exciting collection of wholesome menu items so mouthwatering, you won’t
believe they’re healthy. Our focus on fresh, local ingredients from small farms and producers
comes together with a splash of innovation that will have you feeling great as you’re eating
and throughout your day. We even offer gluten-free options.
Learn more about Avalon Fresh at AvalonWaterways.com.au/Why-Choose-Avalon/AvalonFresh.
12. A V A L O N I N D U L G E S
Your
PASSIONS
Food. Wine. History. Art. An active lifestyle. Whatever you’re
passionate about, Avalon Special Interest Cruises help you
experience your destination from the perspective that interests
you most—in the company of others who share your passion.
Enjoy onboard presentations by subject experts, special activities
on shore, and more…at no additional cost.
A NEW WAY TO CRUISE: An active life shouldn’t get
put on the shelf just because you’re on holiday. Avalon’s
new Active Discovery cruises keep you moving and engaged
as you greet each day and each port of call with a spring in
your step.
‹‹Life vests, safety gear, and instruction will be provided.
22 23
13. Wine
Appreciation Culinary
Ready for a cruise with real get-up-and-go? Introducing Active Discovery on the Danube, an exciting new cruise that
helps you experience Europe in the most engaged, action-packed, and fun ways imaginable. Bike, hike, and canoe along
the Danube. Learn how to milk cows and mow grass with a scythe. We offer the chance to explore an ice cave, take an
archery lesson, descend into an underground salt mine…or ascend a mountain during a guided climb. Play nine holes of
golf, learn some of the local language—and how to prepare regional delicacies at a hands-on cooking class. In every port,
connect with the locals...and choose the interactive activities that appeal to you most. See pages 88-97 for details.
Wine
Appreciation Culinary BeerTasting
ACTIVEDISCOVERYONTHEDANUBE
CITY / HIGHLIGHT
Linz (Embarkation): onboard welcome reception
Engelhartszell–Schlögen Oxbow–Linz: choice of visit to local
Engelszell abbey to tour its brewery, enjoy a tasting, and explore its
sensory garden, or hiking tour to retrace the WWII smugglers route;
choice of scenic cruising around the Schlögen Oxbow or guided hike
on the Danube Trail
Mauthausen–Grein–Cruise the Strudengau: choice of visit to St.
Florian Monastery, guided tour of Mauthausen Concentration Camp,
or bike tour; guided sightseeing in Grein, visit the historical theatre and
the castle to meet the owner at a private reception
Wachau Valley–Krems–Vienna: choice of canoe tour down
the Danube, bike tour with sightseeing in Dürnstein, Wine World
Experience with tasting, or local encounter showcasing regional
products; Wachau Valley scenic cruising; onboard glass of local wine
Vienna: choice of bike tour, jogging tour, encounter with local
business people, or city sightseeing tour; choice of early riser walking
tour with entrance to Habsburg private art collection at the Museum
of Fine Arts, Habsburg collection entrance with time in the Italian
Dutch Masters Gallery, or Habsburg collection entrance with Military
Museum visit
Visegrad–Danube Bend–Budapest: in Visegrad, choice of medieval
knights tournament, or hiking in the national park; scenic cruising
around the Danube Bend; onboard farewell dinner
Budapest (Disembarkation): choice of walking tour, bike tour, or city
sightseeing tour
New!ActiveDiscovery
BeerTasting
Your palate will applaud
as you learn what to
look for in a good
wine. A distinguished Master of
Wine will teach you the ropes
at onboard tastings that may
include wine cheese and wine
chocolate, and at a special
onboard food-and-wine-pairing
dinner. Along the way, you
can test your newly developed
sommelier talents as you visit
wine villages, wineries, and famed
wine cellars for tours and tastings
in a very special atmosphere.
• BURGUNDY PROVENCE FOR
WINE LOVERS
– Departures 1022 1026
See page 32 for details
• GRAND FRANCE FOR WINE LOVERS
– Departures 1017 1021 (Saône/
Rhône section)
See page 42 for details
• RHINE RHÔNE REVEALED FOR
WINE LOVERS
– Departure 1021 (Saône/Rhône
section)
See page 52 for details
• THE LEGENDARY DANUBE FOR
WINE LOVERS
– Departure 1028
See page 112 for details
• THE BLUE DANUBE DISCOVERY
FOR WINE LOVERS
– Departure 1029
See page 118 for details
Enter a food-lover’s
paradise in the land
of haute cuisine—
France! Immerse yourself in the
country’s delectable flavours,
decadent aromas, and delightful
textures. Join the included Taste
of Normandy excursion and visit
the award-winning Domaine St.
Hippolyte, a picturesque hillside
cheese farm surrounded by a
fragrant grove of apple trees.
Here, you will be served a lovely
lunch, with a tasting of cheeses
produced right at the farm. On
board, a pastry demonstration,
special crêpes lunch, cheese
wine tasting, and food-and-
wine-pairing dinner hosted by
the Master of Wine will send your
tastebuds into overdrive. Bon
Appétit!
• A CULINARY EXPERIENCE FROM
PARIS TO NORMANDY
– Departure 0425
See page 28 for details
• A CULINARY EXPERIENCE
ON THE GRAND FRANCE
– Departure 0417 (Seine section)
See page 42 for details
Hefeweizen and
Witbier (wheat beer)…
Dunkeles and Dubbel
(dark beer)…Lambic (wild-yeast
beer)…Krystal (filtered beer)…and
so many others. A visit to Europe
is even better when it includes a
discovery of the regional beers!
Visit historic breweries, attend
special beer tastings, learn
about European beer-brewing
techniques during fascinating
onboard lectures and workshops,
and enjoy a special dinner, hosted
by your onboard beer expert.
From the first Prost to the final
Gesondheid, this cruise delivers
one heady experience! Cheers!
• HOLLAND BELGIUM WITH
TULIPS IN EARLY SPRING FOR
BEER ENTHUSIASTS
– Departure 0406
See page 62 for details
• THE BLUE DANUBE DISCOVERY FOR
BEER ENTHUSIASTS
– Departure 0716
See page 118 for details
SPECIAL INTEREST
CRUISES
24 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 25
15. INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 7-night cruise in an outside
stateroom with Avalon’s exclusive
Comfort Collection BedsSM
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates
in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special
features, and guided sightseeing.
All included guided sightseeing is
conducted by a Certified Local Guide.
Choose the sightseeing pace that
suits you: Leisurely, Traditional, or
Independent (where available).
LOCAL FAVOURITESSM
Special onboard and onshore
experiences presented by
entertainers, artisans, and experts,
designed to enrich your cruise.
JOIN A FASCINATING CRÊPE
DEMONSTRATION TASTING.
Personalise your onboard and
onshore experiences by choosing
from a variety of included or optional
excursions, visits activities. Go
online to customise your cruise
experience. See page 255 for more
information.
MEALS ON BOARD
• Meals are indicated by breakfast (B),
lunch (L), and dinner (D)
• Captain’s welcome farewell
receptions with sparkling wine and
canapés
• Welcome dinner
• Daily Afternoon Tea
• Daily Night Fare
• Farewell dinner
• Complimentary sparkling wine with
breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks
with lunch and dinner are included
daily on board your vessel
CRUISE WPP
8 DAYS • PARIS TO PARIS
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Paris (Embarkation): onboard welcome reception
2 Vernon–Les Andelys: choice of excursions to Giverny
or Bizy Castle; guided walk in Les Andelys, visit the parish
church of Le Petit Andely
3 Caudebec: choice of excursion along either the “Normandy
Villages Route” or the “Normandy Abbeys Route”
4 Caudebec: choice of excursions to Normandy landing
beaches or “A Taste of Normandy”
5 Rouen: guided sightseeing, see the Astronomical Clock and
visit the cathedral
6 Conflans: choice of excursions to visit Auvers-sur-Oise or
Napoleon and Josephine’s Château de Malmaison
7 Paris: choice of guided sightseeing or “Heart of Paris” walk,
visit Notre Dame Cathedral
8 Paris (Disembarkation): your holiday ends this morning®
PARIS
Seine River
NORMANDY BEACHES
ROUEN
Normandy
LES ANDELYS
GIVERNY
VERNON
CONFLANS
AUVERS-
SUR-OISE
7
FRANCE
CAUDEBEC
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right)
Omaha Beach, French café,
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris
Start/End City
PARIS TO NORMANDY
3London
FRANCE
ENGLAND
English
Channel
CRUISE
WPP1
AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 2928
PRICED FROM $3,854
16. DAY 1 Arrive in Paris, France (Embarkation). Welcome
to Paris, France’s capital on the Seine River, the “City of Light,” where
romance fills the air. This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel
and meet your crew at an evening welcome reception. Before
dinner, your ship glides out of Paris. (NOTE: Flights into Paris must
arrive by 2:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.) (D)
DAY 2 Vernon–Les Andelys. This morning in Vernon,
choose between a guided visit of Giverny and a visit to Bizy
Castle. Claude Monet lived at GIVERNY for almost 43 years
(1883-1926), and viewed his flower and water gardens as works
of art—just like his paintings. See his collection of Japanese prints,
his charming house, and his biggest sources of inspiration. Or,
visit BIZY CASTLE, built in 1740 and nicknamed “Normandy’s
Versailles.” It is known for its famous stables—inspired by those at
Versailles—and its magnificent courtyard and water garden. This
afternoon, arrive in Les Andelys, situated on a bend of the Seine
and one of the most beautiful places in France. Join a Local Guide
for a GUIDED WALK of the town, visiting the PARISH CHURCH OF
LE PETIT ANDELY. Imposing Château Gaillard, built by England’s
King Richard the Lionheart as a fortress in 1196, is seen above the
town. Constructed in only a year, it is a masterpiece of medieval
military architecture. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Caudebec. Today, join a guided excursion along the
“NORMANDY VILLAGES ROUTE” to see some of Normandy’s
charming half-timbered houses with their sloping thatched roofs,
often sporting blue wooden doors and window shutters, or along
the “NORMANDY ABBEYS ROUTE,” a short drive from Caudebec.
More than 100 abbeys once covered this region, which has a
microclimate suited to growing fruit such as apples, pears, plums,
and cherries. The afternoon is free to explore on your own or to
join an optional excursion to pretty coastal Honfleur. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 Caudebec. Make your choice today between an
included full-day excursion to the historic NORMANDY LANDING
BEACHES—with poignant sites such as Juno Beach, Pegasus
Museum, and the Commonwealth Cemeteries - or a “TASTE OF
NORMANDY” for an in-depth look at this picturesque, mainly
agricultural region. The most important products are dairy, apples,
and grain. Camembert cheese is a specialty, as is CALVADOS,
a strong apple brandy you’ll have the chance to taste at a local
distillery. And for a touch of history, visit the famous BAYEUX
TAPESTRY. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Rouen. Rouen, capital of Upper Normandy, is an
important commercial city perhaps best known for its connection
to Joan of Arc, who lived, was imprisoned, and burned at the
stake in the marketplace of this town in 1431. Enjoy the included
GUIDED WALK through the medieval quarter with its half-
timbered, glazed-tile houses, and take photos of the intricate Gros
Horloge astronomical clock, dating back to the 16th century. Visit
the gothic CATHEDRAL, which was once the tallest building in the
world and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet.
The afternoon is free to explore on your own. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Conflans. After breakfast you may either join our
included guided excursion to AUVERS-SUR-OISE, the quaint little
town where Vincent Van Gogh lived and died, or to Napoleon
and Josephine’s CHÂTEAU DE MALMAISON just outside Paris.
Requiring extensive renovations, this large country estate was
purchased by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 while Napoleon was
fighting in Egypt. It was her aim to make it “the most beautiful and
curious garden in Europe, a model of good cultivation.” (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Paris. Known as one of the world’s most romantic and
lively cities, Paris is a delight for all your senses. Your included
CITY SIGHTSEEING shows you magnificent must-see
sights, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique
Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid as a contrast
to its ancient architecture, the commemorative Arc
de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, you
may wish to join a GUIDED WALK through historic Île
St. Louis with its narrow one-way streets and Île de la
Cité, the centre of Paris where the medieval city was
founded and home to NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL. In
your free time, stroll down the Champs-Elysées with its
lavish cafés, or perhaps visit the world-famous Louvre or
Montmartre with its gleaming white Sacré Coeur Basilica
and bevy of artists on Place du Tertre. Paris is also well
known for its colourful nightlife, and an optional outing
to one of Paris’ famous cabaret shows might make the
perfect finale to your Seine cruise holiday. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Paris (Disembarkation). Your holiday
ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
PARIS TO NORMANDY–WPP
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Bottom left) WWII
gun battery, Normandy; (right) Rouen
ADD LONDON WITH
After your cruise,
continue your
journey with a high-
speed train transfer
to London for three
exciting nights and
helpful onsite support
from an expert Local Host®
. See page 244 for details.
** SPECIAL INTEREST CRUISES: SEE PAGES 22-27 FOR DETAILS.
CULINARY CRUISE:
Departure 0425
WWII HISTORY CRUISE:
Departure 0711
ART IMPRESSIONIST CRUISE:
Departure 0808
CRUISE WITH CANADIAN ENTERTAINER JANN ARDEN:
Departure 0429
30 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 31
** Special Interest cruise
Port charges: $238 are included.
Gratuities to Cruise Director, Crew, Local Guides Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion only.
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Extra nights per person in Paris - WPP WPP1:
in single room from $424 to $1,088, in twin room from $351 to $566
Extra nights per person in London - WPP1:
in single room from $252 to $390, in twin room from $130 to $199
Supplement to upgrade to standard premier on Eurostar train Paris-London: $249
Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person:
Category Decks Creativity Price Tapestry II Price
D Indigo Deck ----- $279
B Sapphire Deck $909 $1,609
A Sapphire Deck $979 $1,679
P Royal Deck $1,119 $1,819
Suite/Royal Suite Royal Deck $1,959 $2,659
NOTES:
• In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by
motorcoach or to alter the program.
• Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a substitute will be offered.
• In the event that the high-speed train (WPP1) is not available due to strikes or technical reasons, the route will be operated
by motorcoaches.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR HOLIDAY! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
DATES PRICES AU$
CRUISE WPP: PARIS TO PARIS
CRUISE WPP1: PARIS TO LONDON
CRUISE
WPP
CRUISE
WPP1
Ship
Dept.
#
Start
Paris
End
Paris
Cruise
Only
Land/
Cruise
Creativity 0404 04 Apr 11 Apr 3980 5207
Tapestry II 0408 08 Apr 15 Apr 4162 5389
Creativity 0411 11 Apr 18 Apr 4232 5459
Tapestry II 0415 15 Apr 22 Apr 4288 5573
Creativity 0418 18 Apr 25 Apr 4288 5689
Tapestry II 0422 22 Apr 29 Apr 4414 5800
Creativity 0425** 25 Apr 02 May 4540 5779
Tapestry II 0429** 29 Apr 06 May 4610 6020
Creativity 0502 02 May 09 May 4736 6127
Tapestry II 0506 06 May 13 May 4792 6202
Creativity 0509 09 May 16 May 4862 6253
Tapestry II 0513 13 May 20 May 4918 6328
Creativity 0516 16 May 23 May 4918 6309
Tapestry II 0520 20 May 27 May 4918 6328
Creativity 0523 23 May 30 May 4918 6309
Tapestry II 0527 27 May 03 Jun 4918 6328
Creativity 0530 30 May 06 Jun 4918 6309
Tapestry II 0603 03 Jun 10 Jun 4862 6272
Creativity 0606 06 Jun 13 Jun 4862 6253
Tapestry II 0610 10 Jun 17 Jun 4862 6272
Creativity 0613 13 Jun 20 Jun 4862 6269
Tapestry II 0617 17 Jun 24 Jun 4862 6272
Creativity 0620 20 Jun 27 Jun 4862 6253
Tapestry II 0624 24 Jun 01 Jul 4792 6202
Creativity 0627 27 Jun 04 Jul 4666 6057
Tapestry II 0701 01 Jul 08 Jul 4540 5950
Creativity 0704 04 Jul 11 Jul 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0708 08 Jul 15 Jul 4540 5950
Creativity 0711** 11 Jul 18 Jul 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0715 15 Jul 22 Jul 4540 5950
CRUISE
WPP
CRUISE
WPP1
Ship
Dept.
#
Start
Paris
End
Paris
Cruise
Only
Land/
Cruise
Creativity 0718 18 Jul 25 Jul 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0722 22 Jul 29 Jul 4540 5950
Creativity 0725 25 Jul 01 Aug 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0729 29 Jul 05 Aug 4540 5950
Creativity 0801 01 Aug 08 Aug 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0805 05 Aug 12 Aug 4540 5950
Creativity 0808** 08 Aug 15 Aug 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0812 12 Aug 19 Aug 4540 5950
Creativity 0815 15 Aug 22 Aug 4540 5931
Tapestry II 0819 19 Aug 26 Aug 4540 5950
Creativity 0822 22 Aug 29 Aug 4666 6057
Tapestry II 0826 26 Aug 02 Sep 4792 6202
Creativity 0829 29 Aug 05 Sep 4862 6253
Tapestry II 0902 02 Sep 09 Sep 4988 6398
Creativity 0905 05 Sep 12 Sep 4988 6379
Tapestry II 0909 09 Sep 16 Sep 4988 6398
Creativity 0912 12 Sep 19 Sep 4988 6379
Tapestry II 0916 16 Sep 23 Sep 4988 6398
Creativity 0919 19 Sep 26 Sep 4988 6379
Tapestry II 0923 23 Sep 30 Sep 4988 6398
Creativity 0926 26 Sep 03 Oct 4918 6309
Tapestry II 0930 30 Sep 07 Oct 4862 6272
Creativity 1003 03 Oct 10 Oct 4666 6057
Tapestry II 1007 07 Oct 14 Oct 4610 6020
Creativity 1010 10 Oct 17 Oct 4540 5931
Tapestry II 1014 14 Oct 21 Oct 4414 5824
Creativity 1017 17 Oct 24 Oct 4288 5679
Tapestry II 1021 21 Oct 28 Oct 4162 5572
Creativity 1024 24 Oct 31 Oct 4036 5367
Tapestry II 1028 28 Oct 04 Nov 3854 5042
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
CRUISE WPP1
PRICED FROM $5,042AU
17. CRUISE WJL - SOUTHBOUND
11 DAYS • PARIS TO CÔTE D’AZUR
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1-2 Paris: welcome to France; guided sightseeing on Day 2
3 Paris–Dijon–Beaune–St. Jean de Losne (Embarkation)–
Seurre: transfer from Paris to Beaune, visit the Hôtel-Dieu;
onboard welcome reception
4 Seurre–Mâcon: leisurely cruising; onboard cheese tasting;
free time in Mâcon
5 Lyon: guided sightseeing; picture stop on Fourvière Hill
6 Lyon: a free day to explore this fascinating city at leisure
7 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Viviers: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Viviers, visit the Old Town and the cathedral
8 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit Palace of the Popes
9 Arles: cruise into the Camargue region (daylight permitting);
guided sightseeing in Arles, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
10 Arles (Disembarkation)–Côte d’Azur: travel by motorcoach to
Côte d’Azur
11 Côte d’Azur: your holiday ends this morning
CRUISE WLJ - NORTHBOUND
11 DAYS • CÔTE D’AZUR TO PARIS
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Côte d’Azur: welcome to France
2 Côte d’Azur–Transfer to Arles (Embarkation): onboard
welcome reception; sail into the Camargue region (daylight
permitting)
3 Arles: guided sightseeing, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
4 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit Palace of the Popes
5 Cruising–Viviers: guided walk, visit the Old Town and
the cathedral
6 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Vienne: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Vienne
7 Lyon: guided sightseeing; picture stop on Fourvière Hill
8 Cruising–St. Jean de Losne: day at leisure; cheese tasting
9 St. Jean de Losne (Disembarkation)–Beaune–Dijon–Paris:
visit the Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune; TGV train from Dijon to Paris
10 Paris: choice of guided sightseeing or “Heart of Paris”
walk, visit Notre Dame Cathedral
11 Paris: your holiday ends this morning
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 7-night cruise in an outside
stateroom with Avalon’s exclusive
Comfort Collection BedsSM
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates
in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special
features, and guided sightseeing.
All included guided sightseeing is
conducted by a Certified Local Guide.
Choose the sightseeing pace that
suits you: Leisurely, Traditional, or
Independent (where available).
LOCAL FAVOURITESSM
Special onboard and onshore
experiences presented by
entertainers, artisans, and experts,
designed to enrich your cruise.
DISCOVER WHAT MAKES FRENCH
FROMAGE SO SPECIAL AT A FRENCH
CHEESE TASTING.
Personalise your onboard and
onshore experiences by choosing
from a variety of included or optional
excursions, visits activities. Go
online to customise your cruise
experience. See page 255 for more
information.
MEALS ON BOARD
• Meals are indicated by breakfast (B),
lunch (L), and dinner (D)
• Captain’s welcome farewell
receptions with sparkling wine and
canapés
• Welcome dinner
• Daily Afternoon Tea
• Daily Night Fare
• Farewell dinner
• Complimentary sparkling wine with
breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks
with lunch and dinner are included
daily on board your vessel
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Paris InterContinental* (D) or
Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de
Triomphe* (D)
Côte d’Azur Fairmont Monte Carlo*
(D), Carlton InterContinental, Cannes*
(D), or Méridien Beach Plaza, Monte
Carlo* (SF)
*or similar
BURGUNDY PROVENCE
PARIS
Rhône River
ST. JEAN DE LOSNE
SEURRE
LYON
TOURNON
VIVIERS
AVIGNON
CÔTE D’AZUR
BEAUNE
Beaujolais
Region
Saône River
Camargue
Burgundy
Provence
ARLES
7
FRANCE
1
DIJON
2
MÂCON
VIENNE
(Cruise WLJ only)
(Cruise WJL only)
(Cruise WJL only)
Start/End City
FRANCE
Mediterranean Sea
Aix-en-Provence
Nice
2
2
Barcelona
SPAIN
FRANCE
3
CRUISE
WJL1
CRUISE
WJL2
3London
FRANCE
ENGLAND
English
Channel
CRUISE
WLJ1
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right)
Sunflowers in Provence; sunlit
Roman Amphitheatre in Arles;
Côte d’Azur
AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 3332
PRICED FROM $5,201
18. PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left) Montmartre, Paris; (far right) view of the Eiffel
Tower from the Champ de Mars; (bottom right) Hôtel-Dieu, Beaune
DAY 1 Arrive in Paris, France. Welcome to Paris, France’s
capital on the River Seine and the “City of Light,” where romance
fills the air!
DAY 2 Paris. Known as one of the world’s most passionate
and lively cities, Paris is a delight for all your senses. Your included
CITY SIGHTSEEING shows you magnificent must-see sights,
such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique Louvre Museum with
its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture, the
commemorative Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. In your
free time, stroll down the Champs-Elysées with its lavish cafés, or
perhaps visit the world-famous Louvre museum or Montmartre
with its gleaming white Sacré Coeur Basilica and bevy of artists
on Place du Tertre. Paris is also well known for its colourful
nightlife that includes some of the world’s most famous cabaret
shows. All of this awaits your discovery! (B)
DAY 3 Paris–Dijon–Beaune–St. Jean de Losne
(Embarkation)–Seurre. This morning, transfer to Beaune,
the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area. Beaune owes its
wealth to the production, aging, and selling of fine wines.
Although life here centres around wine, Beaune offers much
more. Visit the HÔTEL-DIEU charity hospital, built in 1443 and
paid for by the chancellor of Burgundy after the Hundred Years’
War left many of the town’s population destitute. Today it houses
Van der Weyden’s painting of The Last Judgment and is one of
France’s architectural highlights. Then, continue to St. Jean de
Losne, where you’ll board your river cruise vessel. Before dinner,
meet your crew at a welcome reception as your ship departs for
Seurre. (B,D)
DAY 4 Seurre–Mâcon. Enjoy some leisurely cruising today
and before lunch, enjoy an ONBOARD CHEESE TASTING. In the
late afternoon, arrive in Mâcon, a city that plays an important role
in the wine trade. Free time allows you to explore on your own.
Alternatively, you may choose to participate in one of the optional
excursions on offer, such as a visit to a wine cellar. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Lyon. Lyon, France’s third-largest city and its
gastronomic capital, was founded by the Romans in 43 BC. The
city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to
commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains,
excellent museums, and renaissance architecture delight visitors.
A LOCAL GUIDE joins you as you survey the city from Fourvière
Hill and explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval
alleyways, and Place des Terreaux, a popular area with lively
cafés, monuments, and the famous fountain often depicted on
postcards. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Lyon. Enjoy a free day in this fascinating city to explore
at leisure. Early risers might like to visit the local produce market.
Perhaps wander through one of Lyon’s parks, discover some of
the murals (there are over 100), or select one of the available
optional excursions. Be sure to taste the gastronomic delights
and sample Beaujolais, the wine of the region; wine connoisseurs
know that the grapes must be hand picked. Your Cruise Director
will have plenty of suggestions for things to do. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Viviers. The twin
cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage lie nestled among vineyards
between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.
A LOCAL GUIDE will show you Tournon, one of France’s oldest
medieval cities, with its imposing 16th-century castle and Roman
ruins. Arriving in Viviers in the afternoon, a GUIDED WALK shows
you this charming town that developed around its ROMANESQUE
BURGUNDY PROVENCE–WJL
34 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 35
19. CATHEDRAL. The OLD TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian,
Roman, and medieval influences. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Avignon. The fortified city of Avignon is the capital
of the Vaucluse region, the most picturesque part of Provence
with its intact ramparts encircling the entire city, cobblestone
streets and squares, and private mansions built in the 18th and
19th centuries. Known as the “City of Popes,” it was the centre
of the Catholic Church in the 14th century. During your GUIDED
TOUR you may choose to join an included visit of the PALACE
OF THE POPES, built in the 14th century as the sovereign popes’
residence. A photo of the famous Pont Saint Bénezet (Saint
Bénezet Bridge), of the popular song Sur le Pont d’Avignon, is
a must. Optional outings to Pont du Gard or to the famed wine
cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are available. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 Arles. This morning, wake up early to the tranquil
vistas of Camargue National Park (daylight permitting) before
arriving in Arles after breakfast. Located on the northern tip of the
Camargue, Arles is capital of the Provence region. Your LOCAL
GUIDE will show you highlights of the city and you’ll visit the
ROMAN AMPHITHEATRE. Still used today, it dates to the
1st century and was constructed to hold more than 20,000
spectators. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 Arles (Disembarkation)–Côte d’Azur. After
breakfast, a comfortable motorcoach ride takes you to the
Côte d’Azur for a last night in France. Also known as the French
Riviera, the Côte d’Azur stretches along France’s Mediterranean
coast from Toulon to the Italian border, and is synonymous with
prestige and beauty. (B)
DAY 11 Côte d’Azur. Your holiday ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Top left) Cobblestone streets in the
Côte d’Azur region; (right) Palace of the Popes, Avignon
ADD PROVENCE WITH
After disembarking in Arles,
continue your journey with
two captivating nights each
in Aix-en-Provence and in
Nice, a high-speed train
transfer, and helpful onsite
support in both cities from
expert Local Hosts®
. See page 246 for details.
ADD BARCELONAWITH
After your cruise, fly
from the Côte d’Azur
to Barcelona for three
memorable nights. An
expert Local Host®
will
provide helpful onsite
support. See page 247 for
details.
** SPECIAL INTEREST CRUISES: SEE PAGES 22-27 FOR DETAILS.
WINE APPRECIATION CRUISES:
Departures 1022 and 1026
36 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 37
CRUISE WJL1
PRICED FROM $6,542AU
CRUISE WJL2
PRICED FROM $6,682AU
DATES PRICES AU$
CRUISE WJL: PARIS TO CÔTE D’AZUR
CRUISE WJL1: PARIS TO AIX-EN-PROVENCE NICE
CRUISE WJL2: PARIS TO BARCELONA
Cruise WJL Cruise WJL1 Cruise WJL2
Ship Dept.# Start Paris End Côte d’Azur Land/Cruise Land/Cruise Land/Cruise
Affinity 0409 09 Apr 19 Apr 5579 7017 7060
Poetry II 0413 13 Apr 23 Apr 5635 7073 7116
Affinity 0423 23 Apr 03 May 5887 7353 7368
Poetry II 0427 27 Apr 07 May 5957 7423 7438
Affinity 0507 07 May 17 May 6209 7852 7690
Poetry II 0511 11 May 21 May 6265 7908 7746
Affinity 0521 21 May 31 May 6265 7908 7746
Poetry II 0525 25 May 04 Jun 6265 8017 7746
Affinity 0604 04 Jun 14 Jun 6209 8143 7690
Poetry II 0608 08 Jun 18 Jun 6209 8050 7690
Affinity 0618 18 Jun 28 Jun 6209 7953 7690
Poetry II 0622 22 Jun 02 Jul 6139 7985 7620
Affinity 0702 02 Jul 12 Jul 5887 7733 7368
Poetry II 0706 06 Jul 16 Jul 5887 7733 7368
Affinity 0716 16 Jul 26 Jul 5887 7430 7368
Poetry II 0720 20 Jul 30 Jul 5887 7430 7368
Affinity 0730 30 Jul 09 Aug 5887 7430 7368
Poetry II 0803 03 Aug 13 Aug 5887 7430 7368
Affinity 0813 13 Aug 23 Aug 5887 7430 7368
Poetry II 0817 17 Aug 27 Aug 5887 7430 7368
Affinity 0827 27 Aug 06 Sep 6209 7852 7690
Poetry II 0831 31 Aug 10 Sep 6335 7978 7816
Affinity 0910 10 Sep 20 Sep 6335 7978 7816
Poetry II 0914 14 Sep 24 Sep 6335 7978 7816
Affinity 0924 24 Sep 04 Oct 6265 7878 7746
Poetry II 0928 28 Sep 08 Oct 6209 7734 7690
Affinity 1008 08 Oct 18 Oct 5887 7325 7368
Poetry II 1012 12 Oct 22 Oct 5761 7199 7242
Affinity 1022** 22 Oct 01 Nov 5383 6724 6864
Poetry II 1026** 26 Oct 05 Nov 5201 6542 6682
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
**Special Interest cruise
Port charges: $238 are included.
Gratuities to Cruise Director, Crew, Local Guides Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion
only.
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Extra nights per person in Paris - WJL, WJL1
WJL2:
in single room from $424 to $1,088,
in twin room from $351 to $566
Extra nights per person in Côte d’Azur - WJL:
in single room from $357 to $1,333,
in twin room from $190 to $679
Extra nights per person in Barcelona - WJL2:
in single room from $269 to $296,
in twin room from $147 to $164
Extra nights per person in Nice - WJL1:
in single room from $135 to $342,
in twin room from $79 to $182
Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person:
Category Decks Affinity Price Poetry II Price
D Indigo Deck ----- $279
B Sapphire Deck $909 $1,609
A Sapphire Deck $979 $1,679
P Royal Deck $1,119 $1,819
Suite/Royal Suite Royal Deck $1,959 $2,659
NOTES:
• In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to
operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program.
• Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a
substitute will be offered.
• Whenever available, the TGV train will be used between Paris and Dijon.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR HOLIDAY! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT
THE HASSLE.
20. DAY 1 Arrive in Côte d’Azur, France. Welcome to
France! Located between the mountains and the deep-blue
Mediterranean Sea, the Côte d’Azur is synonymous with prestige
and beauty—with its enchanting yachts, glamorous villas, and
famous events. Time at leisure lets you get acquainted with this
amazing place.
DAY 2 Côte d’Azur–Arles (Embarkation). This
morning, enjoy free time to explore or join an optional excursion.
In the early afternoon, transfer by motorcoach to Arles in the
Provence region, where you’ll board your river cruise vessel.
Before dinner, meet your crew at a welcome reception, then sail
toward the mouth of the Rhône for a taste of the tranquil vistas
of Camargue National Park (daylight permitting). (B,D)
DAY 3 Arles. In Arles, capital of the Provence, join your
Local Guide for a GUIDED CITY TOUR. See the church of St.
Trophime, dating from the 12th century, and visit the ROMAN
AMPHITHEATRE. Still used today, the amphitheatre dates to the
1st century, and was constructed to hold over 20,000 spectators.
Vincent Van Gogh was inspired by the special light of the
Provence and spent a very productive year in Arles. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 Avignon. On your GUIDED TOUR you may choose
to join an included visit of the PALACE OF THE POPES, built
in the 14th century as the sovereign popes’ residence. With a
living space equivalent to four gothic cathedrals, it is the largest
gothic fortress in the world. Alternatively, you may opt for only
city sightseeing and more free time to explore on your own, or
to join an optional outing to Pont du Gard or to the famed wine
cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Cruising–Viviers. A leisurely morning on board to
relax and enjoy the passing scenery. After lunch, join your LOCAL
GUIDE for a walk around the charming town of Viviers, which
developed around its ROMANESQUE CATHEDRAL. The OLD
TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian, Roman, and medieval
influences. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Vienne. The
twin cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage lie nestled among
vineyards between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the
Hermitage. Enjoy a GUIDED WALK of Tournon, one of France’s
oldest medieval cities, with its imposing 16th-century castle and
Roman ruins. Arriving in Vienne in the late afternoon, a GUIDED
WALK shows you the charming little town surrounded by steep
hills—one of the oldest towns in the region. Explore the town
centre to see the Roman Theatre, which once held 13,000
spectators, and the Augustus and Livia Temple, built around
20 BC and converted into a church in the Middle Ages. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Lyon. Lyon is France’s third-largest city and its
gastronomic capital. Founded by the Romans in 43 BC, the
city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to
commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains,
many excellent museums, and much renaissance architecture
delight visitors. You are joined by a LOCAL GUIDE as you survey
the city from Fourvière Hill and explore the Old Town, a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, with its maze of medieval alleyways and
Place des Terreaux, a popular area with lively cafés, monuments,
and the famous fountain often depicted on postcards. Be sure to
sample Beaujolais, the wine of the region. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Cruising–St. Jean de Losne. A leisurely day today
as your final day on board. If you prefer to stay busy, a choice of
optional excursions, including a visit to a wine cellar, is available.
While cruising to St. Jean de Losne, enjoy an onboard CHEESE
TASTING. (B,L,D)
PHOTOGRAPHY:
(Far left) Roman
Amphitheatre in Arles;
(left) Lyon's Bartholdi
Fountain
BURGUNDY PROVENCE–WLJ
38 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 39
21. DAY 9 St. Jean de Losne (Disembarkation)–
Beaune–Dijon–Paris. After breakfast, head by motorcoach
to Beaune, the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area and
Burgundy’s wine capital. Although life here centres around wine,
Beaune offers much more with its ramparts, medieval houses,
cobblestone streets, and historical monuments. Visit the HÔTEL-
DIEU charity hospital, built in 1443 and paid for by the chancellor
of Burgundy after the Hundred Years’ War left many of the town’s
population destitute. Today it houses Van der Weyden’s painting
of The Last Judgment and is one of France’s architectural
highlights. After lunch, continue to Dijon, where you board the
TGV to Paris, the “City of Light.” (B)
DAY 10 Paris. Known as one of the world’s most romantic
and lively cities, Paris is a delight for all your senses. Your included
CITY SIGHTSEEING shows you magnificent must-see sights,
including Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique Louvre Museum
with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture,
the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
Alternatively, you may wish to join a GUIDED WALK through
historic Île St. Louis with its narrow one-way streets and Île de la
Cité, the centre of Paris where the medieval city was founded
and home to NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL. In your free time, stroll
down the Champs-Elysées with its lavish cafés, or perhaps visit
the world-famous Louvre or Montmartre with its gleaming white
Sacré Coeur Basilica and bevy of artists on Place du Tertre. Paris
is also well known for its colourful nightlife that includes some of
Paris’ famous cabaret shows. All of this awaits your discovery! (B)
DAY 11 Paris. Your holiday ends with breakfast
this morning. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from upper left)
Cruising along the Rhône; Arc de Triomphe du
Carrousel; Louvre Museum
ADD LONDON WITH
After your cruise,
continue your journey
with a high-speed train
transfer to London for
three exciting nights and
helpful onsite support
from an expert Local
Host®
. See page 244
for details.
** SPECIAL INTEREST CRUISE: SEE PAGES 22-27 FOR DETAILS.
JAZZ CRUISE:
Departure 0626
40 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 41
CRUISE WLJ1
PRICED FROM $6,554AU
DATES PRICES AU$
CRUISE WLJ: CÔTE D’AZUR TO PARIS
CRUISE WLJ1: CÔTE D’AZUR TO LONDON
Cruise WLJ Cruise WLJ1
Ship Dept.# Start Côte d’Azur End Paris Land/Cruise Land/Cruise
Affinity 0403 Mon 03 Apr 13 Apr 5327 6554
Poetry II 0407 Fri 07 Apr 17 Apr 5509 6736
Affinity 0417 Mon 17 Apr 27 Apr 5635 7036
Poetry II 0421 Fri 21 Apr 01 May 5761 7165
Affinity 0501 Mon 01 May 11 May 6083 7486
Poetry II 0505 Fri 05 May 15 May 6139 7543
Affinity 0515 Mon 15 May 25 May 6265 7668
Poetry II 0519 Fri 19 May 29 May 6265 7669
Affinity 0529 Mon 29 May 08 Jun 6265 7668
Poetry II 0602 Fri 02 Jun 12 Jun 6209 7613
Affinity 0612 Mon 12 Jun 22 Jun 6209 7612
Poetry II 0616 Fri 16 Jun 26 Jun 6209 7613
Affinity 0626** Mon 26 Jun 06 Jul 6013 7416
Poetry II 0630 Fri 30 Jun 10 Jul 5887 7291
Affinity 0710 Mon 10 Jul 20 Jul 5887 7290
Poetry II 0714 Fri 14 Jul 24 Jul 5887 7291
Affinity 0724 Mon 24 Jul 03 Aug 5887 7290
Poetry II 0728 Fri 28 Jul 07 Aug 5887 7291
Affinity 0807 Mon 07 Aug 17 Aug 5887 7290
Poetry II 0811 Fri 11 Aug 21 Aug 5887 7291
Affinity 0821 Mon 21 Aug 31 Aug 6013 7416
Poetry II 0825 Fri 25 Aug 04 Sep 6139 7543
Affinity 0904 Mon 04 Sep 14 Sep 6335 7738
Poetry II 0908 Fri 08 Sep 18 Sep 6335 7739
Affinity 0918 Mon 18 Sep 28 Sep 6335 7738
Poetry II 0922 Fri 22 Sep 02 Oct 6335 7739
Affinity 1002 Mon 02 Oct 12 Oct 6013 7416
Poetry II 1006 Fri 06 Oct 16 Oct 5957 7361
Affinity 1016 Mon 16 Oct 26 Oct 5635 7038
Poetry II 1020 Fri 20 Oct 30 Oct 5509 6768
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
**Special Interest cruise
Port charges: $238 are included.
Gratuities to Cruise Director, Crew, Local Guides Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion
only.
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Extra nights per person in Côte d’Azur - WLJ
WLJ1:
in single room from $357 to $1,333,
in twin room from $190 to $679
Extra nights per person in Paris - WLJ:
in single room from $424 to $1,088,
in twin room from $351 to $566
Extra nights per person in London - WLJ1:
in single room from $252 to $390, in twin room from $130 to $199
Supplement to upgrade to standard premier on Eurostar train Paris-London: $249
Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person:
Category Decks Affinity Price Poetry II Price
D Indigo Deck ----- $279
B Sapphire Deck $909 $1,609
A Sapphire Deck $979 $1,679
P Royal Deck $1,119 $1,819
Suite/ Royal Suite Royal Deck $1,959 $2,659
NOTES:
• In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to
operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program.
• Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a
substitute will be offered.
• In the event that a high-speed train is unavailable due to strikes or technical reasons, the route will
be operated by motorcoach.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR HOLIDAY! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT
THE HASSLE.
22. Saône River
7
PARIS
Rhône River
LYON
Beaujolais Region
TOURNON
VIVIERS
AVIGNON
ARLES
Provence
Burgundy
BEAUNE ST. JEAN DE LOSNE
SEURRE
ROUEN
CAUDEBEC
NORMANDY
BEACHES
Seine
River
LES ANDELYS
GIVERNY
VERNON
AUVERS-SUR-OISE
CONFLANSNormandy
7
DIJON
CÔTE D’AZUR1
Camargue
FRANCE
MÂCON
VIENNE (Cruise WLP only)
(Cruise WPL only)
(Cruise WPL only)
CRUISE WPL - SOUTHBOUND
16 DAYS • PARIS TO CÔTE D’AZUR
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Paris (Embarkation): welcome reception
2 Vernon–Les Andelys: choice of excursions to Giverny or Bizy
Castle; guided walk in Les Andelys, visit the parish church of Le
Petit Andely
3-4 Caudebec: choice of excursion along either the “Normandy
Villages Route” or the “Normandy Abbeys Route”; choice
of excursions to Normandy landing beaches or “A Taste of
Normandy”
5 Rouen: guided sightseeing, see the Astronomical Clock and visit
the cathedral
6 Conflans: choice of excursions: visit Auvers-sur-Oise or Château
de Malmaison
7 Paris: choice of guided sightseeing or “Heart of Paris” walk
8 Paris (Disembarkation)–Dijon–Beaune–St. Jean de Losne
(Embarkation)–Seurre: transfer from Paris to Beaune, visit the
Hôtel-Dieu; onboard welcome reception
9 Seurre–Mâcon: leisurely cruising; onboard cheese tasting;
free time in Mâcon
10 Lyon: guided sightseeing; picture stop on Fourvière Hill
11 Lyon: a day to explore this fascinating city at leisure
12 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Viviers: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Viviers, visit the Old Town and the cathedral
13 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit Palace of the Popes
14 Arles: cruise into the Camargue region (daylight permitting);
guided sightseeing in Arles, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
15 Arles (Disembarkation)–Côte d’Azur: travel by motorcoach to
Côte d’Azur
16 Côte d’Azur: your holiday ends this morning
CRUISE WLP - NORTHBOUND
16 DAYS • CÔTE D’AZUR TO PARIS
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Côte d’Azur: welcome to France
2 Côte d’Azur–Transfer to Arles (Embarkation): onboard
welcome reception; sail into the Camargue region (daylight
permitting)
3 Arles: guided sightseeing, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
4 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit the Palace of the Popes
5 Cruising–Viviers: guided walk, visit Old Town and the cathedral
6 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Vienne: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Vienne
7 Lyon: guided sightseeing, picture stop on Fourvière Hill
8 Cruising–St. Jean de Losne: day at leisure; cheese tasting
9 St. Jean de Losne (Disembarkation)–Beaune–Dijon–Paris
(Embarkation): visit the Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune; TGV train from
Dijon to Paris; onboard welcome reception
10 Vernon–Les Andelys: choice of guided excursions to Giverny or
Bizy Castle; guided walk in Les Andelys, visit the parish church of
Le Petit Andely
11-12 Caudebec: choice of excursion along either the “Normandy
Villages Route” or the “Normandy Abbeys Route”; choice
of excursions to Normandy landing beaches or “A Taste of
Normandy”
13 Rouen: guided walk, see the Gros Horloge astronomical clock
and visit the cathedral
14 Conflans–Paris: choice of guided excursions to Auvers-sur-Oise
or Château de Malmaison
15 Paris: choice of guided sightseeing or “Heart of Paris” walk,
visit Notre Dame Cathedral
16 Paris (Disembarkation): your holiday ends this morning
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 14-night cruise in an outside
stateroom with Avalon’s exclusive
Comfort Collection BedsSM
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates
in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special
features, and guided sightseeing.
All included guided sightseeing is
conducted by a Certified Local Guide.
Choose the sightseeing pace that
suits you: Leisurely, Traditional, or
Independent (where available).
LOCAL FAVOURITESSM
Special onboard and onshore
experiences presented by
entertainers, artisans, and experts,
designed to enrich your cruise.
LEARN FROM A LOCAL EXPERT ABOUT
D-DAY, AND ATTEND AN ONBOARD “LES
GUITARES DE CAMARGUE” MUSICAL
PRESENTATION.
Personalise your onboard and
onshore experiences by choosing
from a variety of included or optional
excursions, visits activities. Go
online to customise your cruise
experience. See page 255 for more
information.
MEALS ON BOARD
• Meals are indicated by breakfast (B),
lunch (L), and dinner (D)
• Captain’s welcome farewell
receptions with sparkling wine and
canapés
• Welcome dinner
• Daily Afternoon Tea
• Daily Night Fare
• Farewell dinner
• Complimentary sparkling wine with
breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks
with lunch and dinner are included
daily on board your vessel
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Côte d’Azur Fairmont Monte
Carlo* (D), Méridien Beach Plaza,
Monte Carlo* (SF), or Carlton
InterContinental, Cannes* (D)
*or similar
Start/End City
GRAND FRANCE
FRANCE
Mediterranean Sea
Aix-en-Provence
Nice
2
2
3London
FRANCE
ENGLAND
English
Channel
CRUISE
WPL1
CRUISE
WLP1
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right)
Giverny; Gros Horloge arch, Rouen
Barcelona
SPAIN
FRANCE
3
CRUISE
WPL2
AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 4342
PRICED FROM $8,255
23. PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left) Vieux-Marche Square, Rouen; (top right)
Seine River passing Castle Gaillard and Les Andelys; (bottom right)
Mona Lisa at the Louvre
DAY 1 Arrive in Paris, France (Embarkation).
Welcome to Paris, France’s capital on the River Seine, the “City
of Light,” where romance fills the air. This afternoon, board your
river cruise vessel and meet your crew at an evening welcome
reception. Before dinner, your ship glides smoothly out of Paris.
(NOTE: Flights into Paris must arrive by 2:30 pm. Guests must be
on board ship by 5 pm.) (D)
DAY 2 Vernon–Les Andelys. This morning in Vernon,
choose between a guided visit of Giverny and a visit to Bizy
Castle. Claude Monet lived at GIVERNY from 1883-1926, and
viewed his gardens as works of art—just like his paintings. See
his collection of Japanese prints, his charming house, and his
biggest sources of inspiration. Or, visit BIZY CASTLE, built in 1740
and nicknamed “Normandy’s Versailles.” It is known for its famous
stables—inspired by those at Versailles—and its magnificent
courtyard and water garden. This afternoon, your ship arrives
in Les Andelys, situated on a bend of the Seine and one of the
most beautiful places in France. Join a Local Guide for a GUIDED
WALK of the town, visiting the PARISH CHURCH OF LE PETIT
ANDELY. Imposing Château Gaillard, built by England’s King
Richard the Lionheart as a fortress in 1196, is seen above the
town. Constructed in only a year, it is a masterpiece of medieval
military architecture. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Caudebec. Today, join either a guided excursion along
the “NORMANDY VILLAGES ROUTE” to see some of Normandy’s
charming and traditional half-timbered houses with their long,
sloping thatched roofs, often sporting blue wooden doors and
window shutters, or along the “NORMANDY ABBEYS ROUTE,” a
short drive from Caudebec. More than 100 abbeys once covered
this region, which has a microclimate particularly suited to the
production of fruit such as apples, pears, plums and cherries. The
afternoon is free to explore on your own or to join an optional
excursion to the pretty coastal town of Honfleur. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 Caudebec. Make your choice today between an
included full-day excursion to the historic NORMANDY LANDING
BEACHES—with poignant sites such as Juno Beach, Pegasus
Museum, and the Commonwealth Cemeteries - or a “TASTE
OF NORMANDY” for a more in-depth look at this picturesque,
mainly agricultural region. The most important products are
dairy, apples, and grain. Camembert cheese is a specialty, as is
CALVADOS, a strong apple brandy that you’ll have the chance
to taste at a local distillery. And for a touch of history, visit the
famous BAYEUX TAPESTRY. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Rouen. Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy,
is an important commercial city perhaps best known for its
connection to Joan of Arc, who lived, was imprisoned, and
burned at the stake in the marketplace of this town in 1431. Enjoy
the included GUIDED WALK through the medieval quarter with
its half-timbered, glazed-tile houses, and take your pictures of
the intricate Gros Horloge astronomical clock, dating back to
the 16th century. Visit the gothic CATHEDRAL, which was once
the tallest building in the world and the subject of a series of
paintings by Claude Monet. The afternoon is free to explore on
your own. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Conflans. After breakfast you may either join our
guided excursion to AUVERS-SUR-OISE, the quaint town
where Vincent Van Gogh lived and died, or to Napoleon and
Josephine’s CHÂTEAU DE MALMAISON just outside Paris.
Requiring extensive renovations, this large country estate was
purchased by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 while Napoleon was
fighting in Egypt. It was her aim to make it “the most beautiful and
curious garden in Europe, a model of good cultivation.” (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Paris. One of the world’s most romantic and lively
cities, Paris delights the senses. Included CITY SIGHTSEEING
shows off the must-see attractions: Notre Dame Cathedral,
the Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its
ancient architecture, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
Alternatively, you may wish to join a GUIDED WALK through
historic Île St. Louis with its narrow one-way streets and Île de la
Cité, the centre of Paris where the medieval city was founded
and home to NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL. In your free time, stroll
down the Champs-Elysées with its lavish cafés, or perhaps visit
the world-famous Louvre or Montmartre with its Sacré Coeur
Basilica and bevy of artists on Place du Tertre. Paris is known
for its colourful nightlife, and an optional outing to one of the
cabaret shows makes the perfect finale to the Seine portion of
your cruise. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Paris (Disembarkation)–Dijon–Beaune–
St. Jean de Losne (Embarkation)–Seurre. This
morning, say goodbye to your crew and transfer to Beaune, the
unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area. Beaune owes its wealth
to the production, aging, and selling of fine wines. Although life
here centres around wine, Beaune offers much more. Visit the
HÔTEL-DIEU charity hospital, built in 1443 and paid for by the
chancellor of Burgundy after the Hundred Years’ War left many
of the town’s population destitute. Today, it houses Van der
Weyden’s painting of The Last Judgment and is one of France’s
architectural highlights. Continue to St. Jean de Losne, where
your ship awaits. Before dinner, meet your crew at a welcome
reception as you depart for Seurre. (B,D)
DAY 9 Seurre–Mâcon. Enjoy some leisurely cruising today
and before lunch, enjoy an ONBOARD CHEESE TASTING. In the
late afternoon, arrive in Mâcon, a city that plays an important role
in the wine trade. Free time allows you to explore on your own.
GRAND FRANCE–WPL
44 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 45
24. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in one of the optional
excursions on offer, such as a visit to a wine cellar. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 Lyon. Lyon, France’s third-largest city and its
gastronomic capital, was founded by the Romans in 43 BC. The
city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to
commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains,
excellent museums, and renaissance architecture delight visitors.
A LOCAL GUIDE joins you as you survey the city from Fourvière
Hill and explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval
alleyways and Place des Terreaux, a popular area with lively
cafés, monuments, and the famous fountain often depicted on
postcards. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 Lyon. Enjoy a free day to explore at leisure. Early risers
might like to visit the local produce market. Perhaps wander
through one of Lyon’s parks, discover some of the murals (there
are over 100 of them), or select one of the available optional
excursions. Be sure to taste the gastronomic delights and sample
Beaujolais, the wine of the region; wine connoisseurs know
the grapes must be hand picked. Your Cruise Director will have
suggestions for things to do. (B,L,D)
DAY 12 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Viviers. The twin
cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage lie nestled among
vineyards between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the
Hermitage. A LOCAL GUIDE will show you Tournon, one of
France’s oldest medieval cities, with its imposing 16th-century
castle and Roman ruins. Arriving in Viviers in the late afternoon,
an included GUIDED WALK shows you this charming town that
developed around its ROMANESQUE CATHEDRAL. The OLD
TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian, Roman, and medieval
influences. (B,L,D)
DAY 13 Avignon. The fortified city of Avignon is the capital
of the Vaucluse region—the most picturesque part of Provence
with its intact ramparts encircling the entire city, cobblestone
streets and squares, and private mansions built in the 18th and
19th centuries. Known as the “City of Popes,” it was the centre
of the Catholic Church in the 14th century. Your GUIDED TOUR
includes a visit of the PALACE OF THE POPES, built in the 14th
century as the sovereign popes’ residency. A photo of the
famous Pont Saint Bénezet (Saint Bénezet Bridge), of the popular
song Sur le Pont d’Avignon, is a must. Optional outings to Pont
du Gard or to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
are available. (B,L,D)
DAY 14 Arles. This morning, wake up early to the tranquil vistas
of Camargue National Park (daylight permitting) before arriving in
Arles after breakfast. Located on the northern tip of the Camargue,
Arles is capital of the Provence region. Your LOCAL GUIDE
will show you highlights of the city and you’ll visit the ROMAN
AMPHITHEATRE. Still used today, it dates to the 1st century and
was constructed to hold over 20,000 spectators. (B,L,D)
DAY 15 Arles (Disembarkation)–Côte d’Azur. After
breakfast, a comfortable motorcoach ride takes you to the Côte
d’Azur for a last night in France. Also known as the French Riviera,
the Côte d’Azur stretches along France’s Mediterranean coast
from Toulon to the Italian border and is synonymous with prestige
and beauty. (B)
DAY 16 Côte d’Azur. Your holiday ends with
breakfast this morning. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Bottom left) St. Georges
Footbridge, Lyon; (right) Viviers on the Rhône
ADD PROVENCE WITH
Disembark
in Arles, then
continue your
journey with two
nights each in
Aix-en-Provence
and in Nice, a high-speed train transfer, and helpful
onsite support in both cities from expert Local
Hosts®
. See page 246 for details.
ADD BARCELONAWITH
After your cruise,
fly from the
Côte d’Azur to
Barcelona for
three memorable
nights. An expert
Local Host®
will provide helpful onsite support. See
page 247 for details.
** SPECIAL INTEREST CRUISES: SEE PAGES 22-27 FOR DETAILS.
WWII HISTORY CRUISE:
Departure 0711 (Seine portion).
ART IMPRESSIONIST CRUISE:
Departure 0808 (Seine portion).
WINE APPRECIATION CRUISES:
Departures 1017 and 1021 (Saône/Rhône portion).
46 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 47
CRUISE WPL1
PRICED FROM
$9,596AU
CRUISE WPL2
PRICED FROM
$9,736AU
DATES PRICES AU$
CRUISE WPL: PARIS TO CÔTE D’AZUR
CRUISE WPL1: PARIS TO AIX-EN-PROVENCE NICE
CRUISE WPL2: PARIS TO BARCELONA
**Special Interest cruise
Port charges: $476 are included.
Gratuities to Cruise Director, Crew, Local Guides Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion only.
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Extra nights per person in Paris - WPL, WPL1 WPL2:
in single room from $424 to $1,088,
in twin room from $351 to $566
Extra nights per person in Côte d’Azur - WPL:
in single room from $357 to $1,333,
in twin room from $190 to $679
Extra nights per person in Nice - WPL1:
in single room from $135 to $342,
in twin room from $79 to $182
Extra nights per person in Barcelona - WPL2:
in single room from $269 to $296,
in twin room from $147 to $164
Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person:
Category Decks Creativity/Affinity Price Tapestry II/Poetry II Price
D Indigo Deck ----- $558
B Sapphire Deck $1,818 $3,218
A Sapphire Deck $1,958 $3,358
P Royal Deck $2,238 $3,638
Suite/Royal Suite Royal Deck $3,918 $5,318
NOTES:
• In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by
motorcoach or to alter the program.
• Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a substitute will be offered.
• Whenever available, the TGV train will be used between Paris and Dijon.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR HOLIDAY! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
Cruise
WPL
Cruise
WPL1
Cruise
WPL2
Ship
Dept.
#
Start
Paris
Land/
Cruise
Land/
Cruise
Land/
Cruise
Cr/Af 0404 04 Apr 8451 9889 9932
Tap II/P II 0408 08 Apr 8703 10141 10184
Cr/Af 0418 18 Apr 9081 10547 10562
Tap II/P II 0422 22 Apr 9263 10729 10744
Cr/Af 0502 02 May 9837 11480 11318
Tap II/P II 0506 06 May 9963 11606 11444
Cr/Af 0516 16 May 10089 11732 11570
Tap II/P II 0520 20 May 10089 11841 11570
Cr/Af 0530 30 May 10019 11953 11500
Tap II/P II 0603 03 Jun 9963 11804 11444
Cr/Af 0613 13 Jun 9963 11707 11444
Tap II/P II 0617 17 Jun 9893 11739 11374
Cr/Af 0627 27 Jun 9459 11305 10940
Tap II/P II 0701 01 Jul 9333 11179 10814
Cr/Af 0711** 11 Jul 9333 10876 10814
Cruise
WPL
Cruise
WPL1
Cruise
WPL2
Ship
Dept.
#
Start
Paris
Land/
Cruise
Land/
Cruise
Land/
Cruise
Tap II/P II 0715 15 Jul 9333 10876 10814
Cr/Af 0725 25 Jul 9333 10876 10814
Tap II/P II 0729 29 Jul 9333 10876 10814
Cr/Af 0808** 08 Aug 9333 10876 10814
Tap II/P II 0812 12 Aug 9333 10876 10814
Cr/Af 0822 22 Aug 9767 11410 11248
Tap II/P II 0826 26 Aug 10019 11662 11500
Cr/Af 0905 05 Sep 10215 11858 11696
Tap II/P II 0909 09 Sep 10215 11858 11696
Cr/Af 0919 19 Sep 10145 11758 11626
Tap II/P II 0923 23 Sep 10089 11614 11570
Cr/Af 1003 03 Oct 9459 10897 10940
Tap II/P II 1007 07 Oct 9263 10701 10744
Cr/Af 1017** 17 Oct 8577 9918 10058
Tap II/P II 1021** 21 Oct 8255 9596 9736
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
Ships: Cr = Creativity Af = Affinity Tap II = Tapestry II P II = Poetry II
25. PHOTOGRAPHY:
(Far left) Fishing boats,
Côte d’Azur; (left) local
cheese shop; (top right)
Roman Amphitheatre,
Arles; (bottom right) Les
Andelys from Château
Gaillard
DAY 1 Arrive in Côte d’Azur, France. Welcome to
France! Located between the mountains and the deep-blue
Mediterranean Sea, the Côte d’Azur is synonymous with prestige
and beauty with its enchanting yachts, glamorous villas, and
famous events. Time at leisure lets you get acquainted with this
amazing place.
DAY 2 Côte d’Azur–Transfer to Arles
(Embarkation). This morning, enjoy free time to explore
further or join an optional excursion. In the early afternoon,
transfer by motorcoach to Arles in the Provence region, where
you’ll board your river cruise vessel. Before dinner, meet your
crew at a welcome reception, then sail toward the mouth of the
Rhône for a taste of the tranquil vistas of Camargue National Park
(daylight permitting). (B,D)
DAY 3 Arles. In Arles, capital of the Provence, join your
LOCAL GUIDE for a tour of the city. See the church of St.
Trophime, dating from the 12th century, and visit the ROMAN
AMPHITHEATRE. Still used today, the amphitheatre dates to the
1st century, and was constructed to hold over 20,000 spectators.
Vincent Van Gogh was inspired by the special light of the
Provence and spent a very productive year in Arles. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 Avignon. On your GUIDED TOUR you may choose
to join an included visit of the PALACE OF THE POPES, built
in the 14th century as the sovereign popes’ residence. With a
living space equivalent to four gothic cathedrals, it is the largest
gothic fortress in the world. Alternatively, you may opt for only
city sightseeing and more free time to explore on your own, or
to join an optional outing to Pont du Gard or to the famed wine
cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Cruising–Viviers. A leisurely morning on board to
relax and enjoy the passing scenery. After lunch, join your LOCAL
GUIDE for a walk around the charming town of Viviers, which
developed around its ROMANESQUE CATHEDRAL. The OLD
TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian, Roman, and medieval
influences. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Vienne. The
twin cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage lie nestled among
vineyards between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the
Hermitage. Enjoy a GUIDED WALK of Tournon, one of France’s
oldest medieval cities, with its imposing 16th-century castle and
Roman ruins. Arriving in Vienne in the late afternoon, a GUIDED
WALK shows you the charming little town surrounded by steep
hills. Explore the town centre to see the Roman Theatre, which
once held 13,000 spectators, and the Augustus and Livia Temple,
built around 20 BC and converted into a church in the Middle
Ages. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Lyon. Lyon is France’s third-largest city and its
gastronomic capital. Founded by the Romans in 43 BC, the
city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to
commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains,
many excellent museums, and much renaissance architecture
delight visitors. You are joined by a LOCAL GUIDE as you survey
the city from Fourvière Hill—with its splendid views over the city—
and explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with
its maze of medieval alleyways and Place des Terreaux, a popular
area with lively cafés, monuments, and the famous fountain
often depicted on postcards. Be sure to sample Beaujolais, the
wine of the region. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Cruising–St. Jean de Losne. A leisurely day today
as your final day on board. If you prefer to stay busy, a choice of
optional excursions is available, including a visit to a wine cellar.
While sailing to St. Jean de Losne, enjoy an onboard CHEESE
TASTING. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 St. Jean de Losne (Disembarkation)–
Beaune–Dijon–Paris (Embarkation). After breakfast,
disembark and head by motorcoach to Beaune, the unofficial
capital of the Côte d’Or area and Burgundy’s wine capital.
Although life here centres around wine, Beaune offers much
more with its ramparts, medieval houses, cobblestone streets,
and historical monuments. Visit the HÔTEL-DIEU charity hospital,
built in 1443 and paid for by the chancellor of Burgundy after
the Hundred Years’ War left many of the town’s population
destitute. Today, it houses Van der Weyden’s painting of The
Last Judgment and is one of France’s architectural highlights.
After lunch, continue to Dijon and board the TGV train to Paris,
the “City of Light,” where your ship is docked on the River Seine.
Meet your crew at a welcome reception; before dinner, your ship
glides smoothly out of Paris. (B,D)
DAY 10 Vernon–Les Andelys. This morning in Vernon,
choose between a guided visit of Giverny and a visit to Bizy
Castle. Claude Monet lived at GIVERNY for almost 43 years
(1883-1926) and viewed his flower and water gardens as works of
art—just like his paintings. See his collection of Japanese prints,
his charming house, and his biggest sources of inspiration. Or,
visit BIZY CASTLE, built in 1740 and nicknamed “Normandy’s
Versailles.” It is known for its famous stables—inspired by those at
Versailles—and its magnificent courtyard and water garden. This
afternoon, your ship arrives in Les Andelys, situated on a bend of
the Seine and one of the most beautiful places in France. Join a
Local Guide for a GUIDED WALK of the town, visiting the PARISH
CHURCH OF LE PETIT ANDELY. Imposing Château Gaillard,
built by England’s King Richard the Lionheart as a fortress in
1196, is seen above the town. Constructed in only a year, it is a
masterpiece of medieval military architecture. (B,L,D)
GRAND FRANCE–WLP
48 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 49
26. DAY 11 Caudebec. Today, join either a guided excursion
along the “NORMANDY VILLAGES ROUTE” to see some of
Normandy’s charming and traditional half-timbered houses
with their long, sloping thatched roofs, often sporting blue
wooden doors and window shutters, or along the “NORMANDY
ABBEYS ROUTE,” a short drive from Caudebec. More than 100
abbeys once covered this region, which has a microclimate
particularly suited to the production of fruit such as apples, pears,
plums and cherries. The afternoon is free to explore on your own
or to join an optional excursion to the pretty coastal town of
Honfleur. (B,L,D)
DAY 12 Caudebec. Today, choose between an included full-
day excursion to the historic NORMANDY LANDING BEACHES—
with poignant sites such as Juno Beach, Pegasus Museum, and
the Commonwealth Cemeteries - or a “TASTE OF NORMANDY”
for a more in-depth look at this picturesque, mainly agricultural
region. The most important products are dairy, apples, and grain.
Camembert cheese is a specialty, as is CALVADOS, a strong apple
brandy that you’ll have the chance to taste at a local distillery.
And for a touch of history, visit the famous BAYEUX TAPESTRY.
(B,L,D)
DAY 13 Rouen. Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy,
is an important commercial city perhaps best known for its
connection to Joan of Arc, who lived, was imprisoned, and
burned at the stake in the marketplace of this town in 1431.
Enjoy the GUIDED WALK through the medieval quarter with its
half-timbered, glazed-tile houses, and take your pictures of the
Gros Horloge, an intricate astronomical clock dating back to the
16th century. Visit the splendid gothic CATHEDRAL, which was
once the tallest building in the world and the subject of a series
of Claude Monet’s paintings. The afternoon is free for you to
explore on your own. (B,L,D)
DAY 14 Conflans. After breakfast you may either join our
included guided excursion to AUVERS-SUR-OISE, the quaint town
where Vincent Van Gogh lived and died, or to Napoleon and
Josephine’s CHÂTEAU DE MALMAISON outside Paris. Requiring
extensive renovations, this large country estate was purchased
by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 while Napoleon was fighting in
Egypt. It was her aim to make it “the most beautiful and curious
garden in Europe, a model of good cultivation.” (B,L,D)
DAY 15 Paris. Known as one of the world’s most romantic and
lively cities, Paris is a delight for all your senses. Your included
CITY SIGHTSEEING shows you magnificent must-see sights,
such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique Louvre Museum
with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture,
the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
Alternatively, you may wish to join a GUIDED WALK through
historic Île St. Louis with its narrow one-way streets and Île de
la Cité, the centre of Paris where the medieval city was
founded and home to NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL. In
your free time, stroll down the Champs-Elysées with its
lavish cafés, or perhaps visit the world-famous Louvre or
Montmartre with its gleaming white Sacré Coeur Basilica
and bevy of artists on Place du Tertre. Paris is also well
known for its colourful nightlife and an optional outing to
one of the world’s most famous cabaret shows might make
the perfect finale to your holiday. (B,L,D)
DAY 16 Paris (Disembarkation). Your holiday ends
with breakfast this morning. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY:
(Far right) Avignon;
(top right) Traditional
half-timbered house;
(top middle) Notre Dame
ADD LONDON WITH
After your cruise,
continue your journey
with a high-speed train
transfer to London for
three exciting nights and
helpful onsite support
from an expert Local
Host®
. See page 244
for details.
** SPECIAL INTEREST CRUISES: SEE PAGES 22-27 FOR DETAILS.
CULINARY CRUISE:
Departure 0417 (Seine portion)
JAZZ CRUISE:
Departure 0626 (Rhône/Saône portion)
CRUISE WITH CANADIAN ENTERTAINER JANN ARDEN:
Departure 0421 (Seine section only)
50 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 51
CRUISE WLP1
PRICED FROM $9,443AU
DATES PRICES AU$
CRUISE WLP: CÔTE D’AZUR TO PARIS
CRUISE WLP1: CÔTE D’AZUR TO LONDON
Cruise WLP Cruise WLP1
Ship Dept.# Start Cote d’Azur End Paris Land/Cruise Land/Cruise
Af/Cr 0403 Mon 03 Apr 18 Apr 8451 9678
P II/Tap II 0407 Fri 07 Apr 22 Apr 8703 9988
Af/Cr 0417** Mon 17 Apr 02 May 9081 10485
P II/Tap II 0421** Fri 21 Apr 06 May 9263 10666
Af/Cr 0501 Mon 01 May 16 May 9837 11241
P II/Tap II 0505 Fri 05 May 20 May 9963 11366
Af/Cr 0515 Mon 15 May 30 May 10089 11493
P II/Tap II 0519 Fri 19 May 03 Jun 10089 11492
Af/Cr 0529 Mon 29 May 13 Jun 10019 11423
P II/Tap II 0602 Fri 02 Jun 17 Jun 9963 11366
Af/Cr 0612 Mon 12 Jun 27 Jun 9963 11367
P II/Tap II 0616 Fri 16 Jun 01 Jul 9893 11296
Af/Cr 0626** Mon 26 Jun 11 Jul 9459 10863
P II/Tap II 0630 Fri 30 Jun 15 Jul 9333 10736
Af/Cr 0710 Mon 10 Jul 25 Jul 9333 10737
P II/Tap II 0714 Fri 14 Jul 29 Jul 9333 10736
Af/Cr 0724 Mon 24 Jul 08 Aug 9333 10737
P II/Tap II 0728 Fri 28 Jul 12 Aug 9333 10736
Af/Cr 0807 Mon 07 Aug 22 Aug 9333 10737
P II/Tap II 0811 Fri 11 Aug 26 Aug 9333 10736
Af/Cr 0821 Mon 21 Aug 05 Sep 9767 11171
P II/Tap II 0825 Fri 25 Aug 09 Sep 10019 11422
Af/Cr 0904 Mon 04 Sep 19 Sep 10215 11619
P II/Tap II 0908 Fri 08 Sep 23 Sep 10215 11618
Af/Cr 0918 Mon 18 Sep 03 Oct 10145 11549
P II/Tap II 0922 Fri 22 Sep 07 Oct 10089 11492
Af/Cr 1002 Mon 02 Oct 17 Oct 9459 10863
P II/Tap II 1006 Fri 06 Oct 21 Oct 9263 10666
Af/Cr 1016 Mon 16 Oct 31 Oct 8577 9765
P II/Tap II 1020 Fri 20 Oct 04 Nov 8255 9443
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
** Special Interest cruise
Port charges: $476 are included.
Gratuities to Cruise Director, Crew, Local Guides Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion
only.
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Extra nights per person in Côte d’Azur - WLP
WLP1:
in single room from $357 to $1,333,
in twin room from $190 to $679
Extra nights per person in Paris - WLP:
in single room from $424 to $1,088,
in twin room from $351 to $566
Extra nights per person in London - WLP1:
in single room from $252 to $390, in twin room from $130 to $199
Supplement to upgrade to standard premier on Eurostar train Paris-London: $249
Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person:
Category Decks Affinity/Creativity Price Poetry II/Tapestry II Price
D Indigo Deck ----- $558
B Sapphire Deck $1,818 $3,218
A Sapphire Deck $1,958 $3,358
P Royal Deck $2,238 $3,638
Suite/Royal Suite Royal Deck $3,918 $5,318
NOTES:
• In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to
operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program.
• Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a
substitute will be offered.
• In the event that a high-speed train is unavailable due to strikes or technical reasons, the route will
be operated by motorcoach.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR HOLIDAY! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT
THE HASSLE.
Ships: Cr = Creativity Af = Affinity Tap II = Tapestry II P II = Poetry II
27. Rhône River
LYON
TOURNON
VIVIERS
AVIGNON
CÔTE D’AZUR
BEAUNE
Beaujolais Region
Saône River
Camargue
Burgundy
Provence
ARLES 1
1
7
STRASBOURG
BASEL
AMSTERDAM
KOBLENZ
COLOGNE
RÜDESHEIM
HEIDELBERG
Rhine River
Black Forest
MAINZ
Rhine River
Rhine Gorge
FRANCE
GERMANY
HOLLAND
7
ST. JEAN DE LOSNE
SEURRE
MÂCON
(Cruise WLA only)
(Cruise WAL only)
(Cruise WAL only)
VIENNE
BREISACH
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 14-night cruise in an outside
stateroom with Avalon’s exclusive
Comfort Collection BedsSM
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates
in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special
features, and guided sightseeing.
All included guided sightseeing is
conducted by a Certified Local Guide.
Choose the sightseeing pace that
suits you: Leisurely, Traditional, or
Independent (where available).
LOCAL FAVOURITESSM
Special onboard and onshore
experiences presented by
entertainers, artisans, and experts,
designed to enrich your cruise.
VISIT THE GUTENBERG MUSEUM, AND
ATTEND A LIVELY EDITH PIAF-STYLE
SHOW ON BOARD.
Personalise your onboard and
onshore experiences by choosing
from a variety of included or optional
excursions, visits activities. Go
online to customise your cruise
experience. See page 255 for more
information.
MEALS ON BOARD
• Meals are indicated by breakfast (B),
lunch (L), and dinner (D)
• Captain’s welcome farewell
receptions with sparkling wine and
canapés
• Welcome dinner
• Daily Afternoon Tea
• Daily Night Fare
• Farewell dinner
• Complimentary sparkling wine with
breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks
with lunch and dinner are included
daily on board your vessel
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Côte d’Azur Fairmont Monte Carlo*
(D), Carlton InterContinental, Cannes*
(D), or Méridien Beach Plaza, Monte
Carlo* (SF)
*or similar
CRUISE WAL - SOUTHBOUND
16 DAYS • AMSTERDAM TO CÔTE D’AZUR
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1-2 Amsterdam (Embarkation): welcome reception; canal cruise
on Day 2
3 Cologne: choice of guided city walk or Jewish Heritage walk
4 Koblenz–Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim: guided sightseeing in
Koblenz; cruise through the Rhine Gorge; visit Siegfried’s
Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim;
special treat
5 Mainz. Excursion to Heidelberg: guided walk, visit the
Gutenberg Museum in Mainz; excursion to Heidelberg, guided
visit of the castle, see the Great Vat
6 Strasbourg: guided sightseeing, visit the La Petite France district
and the gothic cathedral; onboard woodcarving demonstration
7 Breisach. Excursion to the Black Forest: visit a local
woodcarver’s workshop or visit a Black Forest open-air museum
8 Basel (Disembarkation)–Beaune–St. Jean de Losne
(Embarkation)–Seurre: transfer to Beaune, visit the Hôtel-Dieu;
onboard welcome reception
9 Seurre–Mâcon: leisurely cruising; onboard cheese tasting;
free time in Mâcon
10 Lyon: guided sightseeing in Lyon, picture stop on Fourvière Hill
11 Lyon: day at leisure
12 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Viviers: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Viviers, visit the Old Town and the cathedral
13 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit the Palace of the Popes
14 Arles: cruise into the Camargue region (daylight permitting);
guided sightseeing in Arles, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
15 Arles (Disembarkation)–Côte d’Azur: evening in Côte d’Azur
16 Côte d’Azur: your holiday ends this morning.
CRUISE WLA - NORTHBOUND
16 DAYS • CÔTE D’AZUR TO AMSTERDAM
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Côte d’Azur: welcome to France
2 Côte d’Azur–Transfer to Arles (Embarkation): onboard
welcome reception; cruise into the Camargue region (daylight
permitting)
3 Arles: guided sightseeing, visit the Roman Amphitheatre
4 Avignon: guided sightseeing, visit the Palace of the Popes
5 Cruising–Viviers: guided walk, visit Old Town and the cathedral
6 Tournon/Tain l’Hermitage–Vienne: guided walk in Tournon;
guided walk in Vienne
7 Lyon: guided sightseeing, picture stop on Fourvière Hill; onboard
lecture
8 Cruising–St. Jean de Losne: day at leisure; cheese tasting
9 St. Jean de Losne (Disembarkation)–Beaune–Basel,
Switzerland (Embarkation): visit the Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune;
transfer to Basel; onboard welcome reception
10 Breisach. Excursion to the Black Forest: visit a woodcarver’s
workshop or visit a Black Forest open-air museum
11 Strasbourg: guided sightseeing, visit the La Petite France district
and the gothic cathedral
12 Excursion to Heidelberg–Mainz: guided visit of the castle,
see the Great Vat in Heidelberg; visit the Gutenberg Museum
in Mainz
13 Rüdesheim–Rhine Gorge–Koblenz: visit Siegfried’s Mechanical
Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim and enjoy a special
treat; cruise through the Rhine Gorge; guided walk in Koblenz
14 Cologne: choice of guided city walk or Jewish Heritage walk
15 Amsterdam: canal cruise
16 Amsterdam (Disembarkation): your holiday ends this morning
RHINE RHÔNE REVEALED
Start/End City
FRANCE
Mediterranean Sea
Aix-en-Provence
Nice
2
2
CRUISE
WAL1
3
3
M
Paris
London
FRANCE
ENGLAND
English
Channel
CRUISE
WLA1
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right)
Rhine Gorge; Strasbourg
Barcelona
SPAIN
FRANCE
3
CRUISE
WAL2
AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 5352
PRICED FROM $8,044
FOR FULL ITINERARY DETAILS FOR CRUISE WLA, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
28. DAY 1 Arrive in Amsterdam, Holland
(Embarkation). Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s
sophisticated, modern capital has a rich and fascinating history.
This delightful 700-year-old city with its elegant and classic
architecture, cafés, and restaurants has a distinct ambiance.
The streets, squares, and canals—not to mention the bike
paths throughout the city—make for a vibrant atmosphere, and
with over 60 museums, Amsterdam has the highest museum
density in the world. Perhaps you would like to take an optional
excursion to Zaanse Schans with its traditional houses and Dutch
craft workshops. This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel
and meet your crew at an evening welcome reception.
(NOTE: Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 2 pm. Guests must
be on board ship by 5 pm.) (D)
DAY 2 Amsterdam. There is no better way to see
Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant
grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s
“Golden Age.” There’s free time in the city this afternoon. Later,
bid tot ziens (farewell) to Holland and set sail for Germany. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Cologne, Germany. Today, enjoy a peaceful morning
of cruising before reaching Cologne in the afternoon. One of
Germany’s largest cities and capital of the Rhineland, Cologne
straddles both sides of the Rhine and is known for its soaring, twin-
steepled gothic cathedral. Choose between an included GUIDED
CITY WALK or JEWISH HERITAGE WALK. The Old Town abounds
with cafés, shops, and taverns. Be sure to try a Kölsch pale lager,
locally brewed in Cologne for over a hundred years! (B,L,D)
DAY 4 Koblenz–Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim. Situated
at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, 2,000-year-
old Koblenz is the cultural and business centre of the Middle
Rhine region. Here, join a Local Guide for a WALKING TOUR of
the city that reveals an eventful past through its castles, fortress
walls, towers, squares, and monuments. The dramatic RHINE
GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river, with ancient castles
standing sentry on lofty cliffs rising 400 feet above the waters.
Cruise past the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where echoes
of enchanted siren song lured unwitting sailors to their doom.
In Rüdesheim, the quintessential Rhine Valley wine town, visit
SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM
to see and hear a large collection of self-playing calliopes and
music boxes from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Enjoy a
SPECIAL TREAT before returning to your ship for dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Mainz. Excursion to Heidelberg. Strategically
located at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers is Mainz,
with “civilized” origins dating back to around 38 BC. Today, this
is Germany’s largest and most important wine market. Join
your Local Guide for a GUIDED WALK through the Altstadt
(Old Town) with its many intriguing shops and the whimsical
Fastnachtsbrunnen (Carnival Fountain) on the Schillerplatz, a
tribute to the jesters at the city’s annual Carnival celebration.
Gutenberg, father of modern printing, was born here, and you’ll
visit the captivating GUTENBERG MUSEUM. After lunch, travel
to Heidelberg, home to the oldest university in Germany. With a
LOCAL GUIDE, visit the imposing ruins of HEIDELBERG CASTLE,
towering magnificently over the city and among the most
important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. You’ll also
see the famed GREAT VAT, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel.” At
nearly 23 feet high and 28 feet wide, the cask holds over 58,000
gallons of wine and has a dance floor built on top of it! (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Strasbourg, France. Situated on the border of
France and Germany, Strasbourg blends the cultures of both
countries in a delightful way. As capital of the Alsace region
and seat of the Council of Europe and European Parliament,
it is without a doubt an important city that manages to retain
its historic charm. On your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR, visit
the monumental red-sandstone GOTHIC CATHEDRAL with
its ancient murals, stained-glass windows, and fascinating
astronomical clock, as well as the magical LA PETITE FRANCE
district, home to half-timbered houses, quaint shops, inviting
bistros, and a waterfront promenade. Also spend time exploring
Place Kléber, a large historic square in the heart of the city,
and Place Gutenberg in the heart of medieval Strasbourg,
which features a statue of the inventor of the printing press.
An optional excursion into the Alsace wine country is available
today. After dinner tonight, enjoy an onboard WOODCARVING
demonstration. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Breisach, Germany. Excursion to the Black
Forest. Located at the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the
French-German border, Breisach is the gateway to Germany’s
BLACK FOREST, an area of unrivaled natural beauty. The region
got its name because the forests are so dense that local residents
described them as black. Surely the most well-known products
from this region are Black Forest ham, Black Forest cherry cake,
and cuckoo clocks. You may opt for a visit to the workshop of
a local woodcarver who produces clocks and other carvings, or
to the open-air Museum of Vogtsbauernhof to see how life was
lived in this area centuries ago. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Basel, Switzerland (Disembarkation)–
Beaune, France–St. Jean de Losne (Embarkation)–
Seurre. After breakfast, say goodbye to the crew of the Avalon
Tranquility II, cross the border into France, and head for Beaune,
the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area. Beaune owes its
wealth to the production, aging, and selling of fine wines.
Although life here centres around wine, Beaune offers much
more. Visit the HÔTEL-DIEU charity hospital, built in 1443 and
paid for by the chancellor of Burgundy after the Hundred Years’
War left many of the town’s population destitute. Today it houses
Van der Weyden’s painting of The Last Judgment and is one of
France’s architectural highlights. Continue to St. Jean de Losne,
where you’ll board the Avalon Poetry II. Before dinner, meet your
crew at a welcome reception as your ship departs for Seurre. (B,D)
DAY 9 Seurre–Mâcon. Enjoy some leisurely cruising
today and before lunch, enjoy an ONBOARD CHEESE TASTING.
In the late afternoon, arrive in Mâcon, a city that plays an
important role in the wine trade. Free time allows you to explore
on your own. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in
one of the optional excursions on offer, such as a visit to a wine
cellar. (B,L,D)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from left) Kaiser Wilhelm I statue in
Koblenz; Cologne Cathedral; Rüdesheimer coffee; Black Forest
cuckoo-clock craftsman; Amsterdam
RHINE RHÔNE REVEALED–WAL
54 AV A L O N W AT E R W AY S . C O M . A U 55