Avalon Waterways Invests in More River Cruise Growth

Avalon Waterways is investing millions of dollars in the fast-growing river cruise segment. The company inked a five-ship deal with the Den Breejen Shipyard in Holland.

The Avalon Scenery, launched in April, was the first ship delivered as part of this deal, with four sister vessels scheduled for christenings in the next two years: The Avalon Affinity and Avalon Creativity in 2009 and two more ships in 2010. With these deliveries, Avalon will boast 10 luxury vessels in Europe, averaging two years in age.

Other amenities and features on Avalon’s new ships include flat-screen televisions, large closets, beds that can be configured as two twins or one queen, Egyptian cotton linens, mini-bars, safes, laundry and ironing services, a fully equipped fitness room, library, hair salon and gift shop, as well as a club lounge and large Jacuzzi pool on the Sky Deck.

Avalon also has focused its efforts on a wide range of cruise itineraries in Europe, Egypt, China and the Galapagos, including themed offerings such as music-inspired getaways, holiday vacations and a Food & Wine cruise series, created with Burt Wolf.