Active Discovery with Avalon Waterways

River cruises lend themselves to active exploration.

Ships dock in the heart of quaint villages. Cobbled streets and busy capitals beckon with local color. And, sweeping vineyards and historic landscapes await at every turn. While traditional city tours provide a good overview of each destination, they may not always be the right fit for all guests.

Active Discovery Cruises from Avalon Waterways are an attractive alternative.

Launched on the Danube in 2017, the Rhine in 2018 and coming to the Rhone in 2019, they’re a different way to see Europe. Active Discovery Cruises go beyond typical “active options” offered by other lines. They aren’t simply cruises with a few bikes on board. Rather, they’re unique itineraries, created for guests who want in-depth experiences and active sightseeing.

From hikes to canoeing, painting classes to waltz lessons, there’s more time to fully engage on an Active Discovery Cruise. Literally. The cruises feature extended time in ports so that guests can take part in intensive excursions.

And, don’t forget the “discovery” angle. Guests can visit a Trappist monastery near Linz, Austria that produces artisanal cheeses and beer. Or, meet with a local produce grower in Austria's Wachau Valley. They can attend a medieval knights’ tournament in Visegrád, Hungary. All are part of an Active Discovery Cruise on the Danube, from Budapest to Linz, or the reverse.

On the Rhine, the Active Discovery itinerary explores legendary Cologne and Amsterdam. But, it ventures to some hidden gems, as well, such as Xanten, Eltville, Duisburg and Wiesbaden. Highlights include a painting class, bike ride along the Rhine and even a walk through the site of an ancient volcano.

And, the Rhone brings the chance to hike or bike through the Camargue Regional National Park, home to 400 species of birds. Guests can also canoe through the Gorges de l'Ardeche and visit a crocodile farm. On the culinary side, there’s an oyster tasting at an oyster farm and a cooking class, with the chance to make a traditional sausage roll, saucisson brioche.

In addition to the action-packed activities on shore, guests enjoy Avalon’s signature relaxed luxury on board. The line’s entire fleet will consist of “Suite Ships” by 2019. That means two decks of 200 and 300-square foot suites with open-air balconies and beds that face the view, among other things. Sometimes, the best activity is to simply relax and discover the scenery as it passes by.