Ship Review - Avalon Felicity

Try Me a River
Avalon Felicity’s rooms with a view showcase Europe’s waterways in style.

By John and Sandra Nowlan

Jim and Marion Rose found what they were longing for on the new Avalon Felicity: an up-close-and-personal tour of Europe from the decks of a small river ship brimming with sophistication and elegance.

The newest addition to the Avalon Waterways fleet, Avalon Felicity features the luxury of an ocean liner with the intimate ambiance that only a river ship can provide. "It's very relaxing," the St. Louis couple told us as we sailed from Amsterdam to Belgium, admiring magnificent countryside and colorful communities. "There are no worries about big waves, plus we can visit towns that are inaccessible to big ships."

This was our first river cruise and, like the Roses, we were hooked. Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways, says that at least half of the line's passengers are veteran ocean cruisers who are looking for a small ship feel and an itinerary that includes constantly changing scenery along historic rivers. "Our growth has been approaching 10 percent for the past half-dozen years, and we expect that growth to continue for the next decade," Clark says.

Intimate itineraries have much to do with Avalon's success. "We cruise through the heart of Central Europe," Clark says. "With frequent stops in the middle of towns and villages, guests get right inside the countries we visit." Avalon, Clark says, is the fastest-growing river cruise company in Europe and has the youngest fleet, just two years on average. Avalon Felicity, launched this spring, is its ninth vessel and incorporates the latest technology as well as creature comforts that set the industry standard.

Marco Rizzi, the executive responsible for design, says that Avalon ships are contemporary with a unique, modern style that minimizes engine noise and maximizes the amount of glass in the lounges, restaurant, and staterooms. "The idea of river cruising is not just about being on a vessel. It’s about having the panorama passing by in front of you."

Avalon's ships are compact to navigate the canals, locks, and low bridges of European waterways (Avalon Felicity is 361 feet long with three decks) but none of our shipmates missed the casino, big theater, or specialty restaurants of ocean cruise ships. Most excursions on Avalon ships are complimentary and almost everyone is up early to take advantage of them.

In addition, little touches such as fresh flowers in all staterooms and public areas enhance the experience. As a guest from Toronto told us, "This is a perfect-size ship. The staff is great, we’ve made many new friends and the stops are excellent. It's just a wonderful way to travel."