After touring throughout Europe on coach tours, we, my wife and me, decided to celebrate our 50th. wedding anniversary on something different - a river cruise. After reviewing the various lines available we settled on Avalon as it is part of Globus who we have used exclusively. The frequent traveler discount doesn't hurt either. Booking went smoothly and we had rented a car to drive thru Germany for a week before boarding the ship in Basel.

With our credentials in order the boarding went smooth as silk. The stateroom was ample, clean, and in new condition. 5/5. The dining room was large and filled with various dishes for breakfast and all that we selected were fresh and delicious. The wait staff were friendly, congenial, and eager to please. 5/5. Lunch was at 12 noon and similarly, just as good as breakfast. In between, we sat on the rear deck to view the towns we were sailing by while drinking coffee, tea, and fresh cookies from the self-serve table inside. Before dinner each night there is a happy hour when drinks - beer, mixed cocktails - are served at half price. After Happy Hour there is a short talk by the Cruise Director on what is happening the next day.

There are paid excursions and free, included excursions. We took advantage of the free ones and were not disappointed. The tour person spoke clear English (a real plus) and the topics and areas visited were well worth going. Most were native to the town we were in at the time. Dinner did not disappoint once again and the food was top shelf. We had not one meal that was of poor or sub standard quality. Every one was excellent. Never met one crew member that was not eager to assist in any way. Although I was a pessimist as far as going on a river cruise, I am a convert today. Thanks Avalon.