Snapshot

There’s both serenity and a measure of adventure when cruising Central Europe’s famed waterways aboard Avalon Expression from Avalon Waterways. Sailing the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, and the waterways of the Lowland countries, Avalon Expression can glide by centuries-old castles and beautiful landscapes in the afternoon, then make an overnight port call at one of Europe’s overlooked gems. Whether tastes favor exploring charming historic neighborhoods and world-class museums or indulging in fine cuisine or a city’s vibrant nightlife, Avalon Expression offers even seasoned travelers new opportunities to discover old and new Europe.

Avalon Expression is fitted with onboard amenities that promise sailing in comfort. Cruisers can soak in the rays and take in the view from a lounge chair or whirlpool on the Sky Deck. Or wake each morning to the scenery passing by their suite’s wall-to-wall panoramic windows (the ship’s suites are spacious — at 200 square feet, Avalon says, they’re more than 30 percent larger than industry standard). Dining options range from light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro to multi-course dinners.

Where Avalon Expression sails

Avalon Expression sails the Rhine, Danube and Main rivers, as well as the waters of Belgium and the Netherlands. Cruises range from 8 to 21 days, and destinations and port calls include Amsterdam, Budapest, Brussels, Cologne and Vienna. The 21-day cruise that embarks from Budapest concludes with overnights (via high-speed rail) in Paris and London.