6 April 2016

Avalon Waterways Launches Newest Suite Ship, Avalon Imagery II

Avalon Waterways has launched its newest Suite Ship Avalon Imagery II at a ceremony at Engers on the Rhine with New Zealand broadcaster Judy Bailey as the ship's godmother.

 Avalon Imagery II is the latest example of Avalon Waterways' successful Suite Ship concept, which offers two entire decks of all-suite accommodation and 30 per cent more stateroom space than the industry average.  Each of its suites features wall-to-wall panoramic windows that can be opened to turn the entire cabin into an open-air balcony, or closed to create an inviting living area.

 At 110m in length, Avalon Imagery II will cater for 128 passengers, providing a more intimate and spacious cruise. The ship will operate primarily on the Rhine, offering Avalon's eight-day Romantic Rhine itinerary between Amsterdam and Basel.

The launch of Avalon Imagery II will be followed next week by the launch of a second new ship, Avalon Passion, giving Avalon Waterways a total of 12 Suite Ships in an overall European fleet of 16 modern vessels. Avalon Waterways operates among the most modern river cruise ships in Europe, averaging just over three years in age.

Avalon Waterways UK General Manager David Binns, “We are delighted to add another Suite Ship to our fleet as demand from the UK continues to grow for our brand of relaxed style luxury river cruising.  Our guests can look forward to spacious and sleek designed staterooms sized at 200 square feet with large bathrooms, unique 'open air balconies' and clever positioning of the bed to enjoy the best view of the passing landscapes.   

Avalon Waterways' fully-packaged river cruise holidays with return travel and deluxe accommodation in spacious staterooms also feature a range of benefits in the price; on-board gratuities, a privately chauffeured door-to-door home pick up service, port charges and all airport transfers and complimentary Wi-Fi.  Daily excursions accompanied by expert local guides with individual audio systems as well as complimentary hot drinks throughout the day are also included. Based on full board, the a la carte dining on-board includes a range of international and regional dishes with local wines, beers and soft drinks served on a complimentary basis with dinner.   Pre and post cruise hotels and city stays can be added.

Photo Caption: from left to right: Avalon Waterways' President Patrick Clark, godmother Judy Bailey, the ship's Captain Nico van den Boom and Globus family of brands General Manager New Zealand Troy Ackerman.

Photo Caption: Avalon Imagery II sailing on the Rhine River

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 For more information ring 0800 668 1801 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

Avalon ships and launch dates:  Avalon Imagery II and Avalon Passion (2016); Avalon Tapestry II and Avalon Tranquility (2015); Avalon Impression, Avalon Poetry II and Avalon Illumination (2014); Avalon Artistry II & Avalon Expression (2013); Avalon Vista & Visionary (2012); Avalon Panorama (2011); Avalon Felicity (2010); Avalon Luminary (2010);  Avalon Affinity (2009);  Avalon Creativity (2009.

 For further press information or images of Avalon cruise ships please contact: Helen McNaught at the Avalon UK Press Office on 020 8315 4520 or email hmcnaught@avaloncruises.co.uk