We had a wonderful experience on Poetry II. The intercontinental hotel in Nice was fabulous. We were right on the The Mediterranean and had a lovely time befor we got on the ship. We also stayed in the Intercontinental in Paris and that was equally as nice and in a wonderful location. Once on the ship the room food was excellent, the staff outstanding and the excursions were informative and enjoyable. We went with great friends and made some new friends that we really enjoyed and hope to see again. The cocktail hour was very popular for us as we got together with friends and discussed the day. We enjoyed the entertainment that was provided and took part in all that was offered to us. The staff was extremely helpful and always available for questions. We appreciated the meeting helps almost every nigh keeping us on target for what was expected of us. This was our second Avalon Cruise and we would do it again. Read Less

This is the first review I've written on Cruise Critic but the 8th cruise I've taken on Avalon. I felt I needed to share just how professional, service oriented and wonderful the trips have been with Avalon. This most recent one we started in Cannes and ended in Paris with 6 friends on the Poetry II. From beginning to end the service was top notch and there could not be a better, more humorous and competent Cruise Director than Danielle Oosterwal. She was consistently patient with people yet fun and outgoing and is a wonderful reflection on Avalon. Our beginning hotel, The International Carlton at Cannes and our final hotel, The Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe in Paris were both top of the line. The entire staff was wonderfully accommodating and could not have been more service oriented. The ship itself is lovely, the excursions were outstanding and we would all rate this trip a solid 5! Read Less

March of 2015 was our 2nd Avalon cruise in 18 months and it is a pleasure to obtain consistent and excellent service. We thoroughly enjoyed the crew , the professional services and Cruise Director Danielle as we went North on the River from Arles to Dijon. The choices for optional tours and onboard events hits the mark for us. (cheese and local meats tasting, "French Life" Historian, etc).. We would recommend Avalon as they are very accommodating and keep you informed of the daily events that again are up to you to participate. We found the ride very quite as all are very respectful of your vacation time.. But it is the connections made with all the great International People onboard that makes a life memory... Read Less