We chose Avalon because of the superior recommendations we received from friends. Plus, we liked the fact the the Avalon ships were smaller and carried less passengers than several of their competition. We were looking for quality not quantity! The staff were amazing and a huge part of our enjoyment of the cruise. Excursions were great (except for the 'Butterfly experience'. Loved touring the adjacent castle and would like to have seen more of it. The Coffee house on the tour was mediocre. After we left the group there, taking the aerial tram to the awesome statue and view above the city was phenomenal. Would much have preferred to spend more time there than the coffee house. Our activities director was charming. She entertained and educated us on all we were going to see. The onboard entertainment was above average, but definitely did not play the dance music. Too bad... All in all, we are already planning our next excursion on the Danube with Avalon!