We have cruised large ocean going ships quite a few times, but decided to try a river cruise. The Avalon Felicity is a very nice ship and the itinerary was Basel to Amsterdam via the Rhine River. We chose a category A cabin and were upgrade to a category P. which was the same cabin one floor up (no great advantage). There was ample room in the cabin and it was very modern with all the facilities you would expect.

The dining was very good and the dress code is casual. There is only one sitting for breakfast, lunch and dinner and choices are adequate, but good quality and some wine, beer and soft drinks are served at meal times. The staff were excellent with great service and good English language skills . The entertainment is limited, but the pianist was quite good. There were a couple of guest entertainers. The activities a very limited on the ship, but most time is spent in the beautiful French and German towns. There was a full day in Amsterdam port prior to disembarkation day which we did not need because we were staying in Amsterdam for 6 days post cruise.

I am not hooked on river cruising, but this was a pleasant cruise. The included excursions where mainly walking tours of the French and German towns and a canal tour in Amsterdam. The optional tours are expensive. We chose the Mount Pilatus and Lucerne Tour the fill in the morning of embarkation at Euro 58 each. Read more