First things first - upgrade.
We just returned from a cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest and upgraded to P Suite and it was awesome. There was a lot more river cruising than I expected during the first week in particular and the suite was marvelous. Lying on your bed in the afternoon watching the world float by was great, and the room with french balcony was the best. Actually the whole Avalon fleet must be the best in my eyes, we never saw a better ship and those with separate balconies just seemed a wasted space. The food and service was first class and the wine and beer flowed at dinner time, our bar tab at the end of the cruise was small as we sat back and enjoyed some wonderful entertainment or went to the back lounge for coffee rather than spending a lot of time at the bar. Two weeks was wonderful, we met a couple of groups who were doing 5-8 day cruises and wanted more. 14 nights just flew by but seemed the perfect amount to enable us to relax and thoroughly enjoy the experience.
If you are thinking it is too dear, just think of those food and accommodation costs you would otherwise be paying. Our week prior to the cruise cost an arm and a leg but once on board we could easily have gone 2 weeks without spending any extra, it really is fully covered and to the highest standard from the moment you go on board. I particularly enjoyed Amsterdam but the walking tours everyday brought new and wonderful sights and experiences, do not miss out on the trip of a lifetime, we are keen to start planning for the next river cruise as soon as possible..
First cabin on the top level and it was great, plenty of room and bags fit under the bed out of the way. Everything was first class and beautifully maintained by house-keeping.
P class has the advantage of height giving a great view of the surrounding area and also has easy access to the rear lounge. Did not notice any outside noise and opening those french windows really made you feel part of the outside environment.
Upgrade, it is well worth it as you do spend time in your cabin relaxing...