Don't Settle for the Cheap Seats

Have you ever had something you needed to say, but wanted to be diplomatic about it?

I am trying to help you understand the difference between river cruise companies, and why some are so much better than the others. Why some are responding to current events so much more responsibly than others.

Here's the thing, river cruise vessels in Europe are all the same size. They have to be, they have all to navigate the same turns in the rivers and fit in the same locks. They are all "longships".

The most famous company puts 190 passengers onboard their longships. My favorite two companies put 30 less passengers onboard their ships. It makes a huge difference. Their cabins average 200 square feet rather than 135. Their bathrooms are luxurious rather than RV style baths.

Right now, with everything going on regarding social distancing, 30 fewer passengers is a big deal. Even bigger, they are also decreasing max occupancy by up to 30%, so that's getting it down to about 110 passengers onboard. Now they have 80 fewer passengers in the same space.

If there was ever a time when fewer was definitely better, it's now. If there was ever a time when you can purchase a true luxury product at the bargain-basement price point, it's now.

I just sat through two lengthy meetings regarding new sanitation practices, and believe me, they are not only doing the right thing, but they are also going overboard. Twice daily complete room sanitation. The walls, the furniture, all surfaces are going to be disinfected twice daily. wow. Each cabin has private air, no inter-cabin air circulation.

With free flights, free upgrades to panoramic suites, amazing itineraries, a wide variety of included excursions in every port, and truly gourmet cuisine (no buffets, a la carte dining for every meal, no self serve areas) there has never been a better time to try Avalon or AMA cruises. And we have 15th-anniversary savings that will make your amazing deal even sweeter.

Please don't settle for the cheap seats, let's get you into the owners' box for a view, and experience that's over the top.

Joy