Avalon Poetry II

The Avalon Poetry II, part of Avalon Waterways’ Suite Ship fleet, is a river cruise vessel that stands out for its intimate size, luxurious accommodations, and a focus on personalized service. Designed to explore Europe’s scenic rivers, it offers an unparalleled travel experience where passengers can immerse themselves in the cultures, landscapes, and histories of some of the continent’s most charming destinations.

Launched in 2014, the Avalon Poetry II carries just 128 passengers, providing a more intimate and relaxing atmosphere compared to larger ocean liners. This smaller capacity ensures that guests can enjoy personalized service and a sense of privacy while on board.

The ship's elegant design features two full decks of Panorama Suites, offering wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that open up to create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. These windows turn each suite into an open-air balcony, offering travelers the best views of Europe’s riversides from the comfort of their own room.

The onboard amenities reflect Avalon’s commitment to luxury. With a spacious Sky Deck featuring lounge chairs, a whirlpool, and a shaded seating area, passengers can unwind while watching the world drift by. Inside, the Panorama Lounge offers a cozy environment for socializing or simply enjoying the changing vistas. The Club Lounge provides an ideal spot for coffee or a good book, while the fitness center is perfect for those looking to stay active during the voyage.

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Dining aboard the Avalon Poetry II is a highlight of the experience, with gourmet meals reflecting the culinary traditions of the regions visited. The ship’s dining room serves freshly prepared, locally sourced dishes that range from French bistro fare to hearty German delicacies. Guests can also enjoy a casual al fresco dining experience on the Sky Deck during warmer weather.

Avalon Waterways emphasizes flexibility, offering options for early and late risers, as well as light lunches in the Panorama Lounge for those who prefer a more informal meal setting. The open seating policy encourages a convivial atmosphere where guests can mingle and share their travel experiences.

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The Avalon Poetry II cruises through some of Europe’s most picturesque and historically rich regions, primarily focusing on the rivers Rhine, Rhône, Saône, and the Moselle. Popular itineraries include voyages through the heart of France, the breathtaking landscapes of the Netherlands and Germany, and the scenic routes along the Moselle River in Luxembourg.

One of the standout itineraries is the Rhine & Rhône Revealed, a 15-day journey that takes passengers from the historic towns of Amsterdam to Lyon, winding through vineyards, medieval towns, and iconic cultural landmarks. Along the way, guests can enjoy guided tours of cities like Strasbourg, with its blend of French and German architecture, and Cologne, home to its famed Gothic cathedral.

For those looking for a shorter trip, the Burgundy & Provence itinerary offers an 8-day exploration of southern France. This cruise highlights the culinary delights of Lyon, the art history of Arles, and the wine-growing regions of Burgundy, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.

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While the focus of the cruise is on exploration and relaxation, the Avalon Poetry II offers a range of onboard enrichment activities to enhance the journey. Local experts often come aboard to give talks on the history, culture, and traditions of the destinations visited. Additionally, themed cruises, such as wine tasting tours or culinary-focused voyages, provide immersive experiences that allow travelers to connect more deeply with the regions they explore.

Evenings on the ship are typically quiet and relaxing, with light entertainment such as live music in the Panorama Lounge. However, the real highlight of the trip is the scenic cruising itself — the slow passage through Europe’s waterways offers a unique and constantly changing panorama, from medieval castles to lush vineyards.

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