By: Vivian Vo, Travel Consultant
This was our first time on an Active and Discovery on the Rhine with Avalon Waterways cruise and it was a memorable experience. I planned this trip to celebrate my best friend’s birthday, which turned out to be the best decision!
Everything was well planned out from the time of our arrival, to the time of departure by the Avalon Waterways Team. After we emerged from customs, we were greeted by the Avalon reps and escorted to the docking location, and enjoyed our welcome meeting that evening.
The next morning, we joined an inclusive Guided Walking tour through the historic Old Town, which is well known as “the City of Wine, Sekt (sparkling wine), and Roses,” and got to taste some local wine in Eltville and Rhein.
It was a beautiful day to stroll along the Rhine River, while sipping on some local sparkling wine, and learning about the history of the Roses.
On our 3rd day, we joined another guided walking tour in Koblenz with a guide, and took the cable car ride up to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Castle, where we soaked up the beautiful panoramic view from above the banks of the Rhine.
Related: Guaranteed Lowest Prices On Active And Discovery Avalon Waterways River Cruises- Click Here!
We were so lucky that we got to witness the Graduation of the Military, which rarely happens. Later that evening, we had a wonderful time enjoying a live Concert performance by violinist, Elisabeth Gebhardt, and pianist, Oksana Andriyenko. They were amazing! It was my first time attending the concert, and I loved it!
We got to Cologne the next morning, which is home to unusual museums that offer a unique perspective on German history, life, and death. We joined another walking tour to see the Romano-Germanic Museum, the Town Hall, Alter Markt and Gross St. Martin. And of course, we headed off on our own to do a little shopping before heading back to the ship.
Talking about food, I’m a food lover and cannot leave the included culinary walking tour without participated in Duisburg. We got to sample some Herring fish, drank some beer, and enjoyed more sampling at a Vegan Café.
My favorite part was to sit back, enjoy the local beer, and watch the locals enjoying their day. Avalon also did an amazing job at preparing our daily meal as well. We had different items to order every single day. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and soft drinks and wine are included with every meal.
And yes, I love me a good cocktail as well! Speaking of cocktails, I cannot forget about my favorite, talented Bartender, Georgi, who we spent every night at the bar with.
Every night, he made us a few of his favorite drinks that weren’t on the menu. He was so friendly, accommodating to my pickiest best friend, and even gave us a special personal tour of Amsterdam during his break on our last afternoon there.
Amsterdam was our final destination before heading home. Of course, we joined another foodie tour of Amsterdam, even though there were a few other tours to pick from, including painting class to a jogging tour, to a Canal Cruise, and these all were included.
Related: Browse All Avalon Waterways Discounted River Cruises!
This was an active cruise, and I am nowhere near being active, as you can figured out by now, but I was able to have a wonderful time there. This cruise is suitable for all ages in any physical condition, due to the fact that Avalon offers so many included activities to pick from.
This trip was amazing and the most memorable trip thus far. From the moment we arrived and were greeted by the Avalon staff, to the moment we left the ship, everything was planned out and well prepared.
The tour director was informative and knowledgeable. The Avalon staff (Receptionist, Server, and Housekeeper) were friendly and accommodating. The Bartender was amazing with his creation of all the drinks. The pianist was awesome as well, and he got us dancing to the music almost every night. The Food Manager and Chef did a wonderful job keeping our taste buds satisfied. And lastly, we couldn’t go far without the Captain. He did a phenomenal job on maneuvering that ship so we wouldn’t get stuck in the low water. Great job Active and Discovery on the Rhine with Avalon Waterways for making the trip a memorable one!
Vivian Vo
Travel Consultant
[email protected]
Toll Free: 1-800-935-2620 Ext: 173
Direct: 281-269-2673