What cabin is right for me on a river cruise?

I was just explaining to clients joining me on my German Grandeur with Avalon Waterways cruise, coming up in October, about onboard cabin locations and why some are better than others for different types of people.

Those cabins closest to the lobby are great choices for anyone with mobility or stamina issues. If you know you will be worn out by the end of the day, coming home to a cabin just steps from the entrance of the ship can be wonderful. Being steps from the Panoramic Lounge and main dining room are other important benefits to that location as well.

(By the way, did you know river cruise vessels almost always have an onboard elevator? It’s just off the main lobby and covers all decks with cabins for passengers).

Another “by the way”: I know you think river cruises are for older people, but frankly they are not a viable choice for anyone with significant mobility challenges. Often the gangways are steep and a bit of a challenge depending on the height of the water in the river. I’ve seen gangways at alarming angles going both down into the ship, and up into the ship. I have had to really watch my step on several occasions.

The daily excursions include quite a bit of walking. Another problem for anyone with a mobility issue.

And then there are the hallways. They are not easily navigable for walkers, wheelchairs etc. It’s a big challenge.

Back to the topic. There is an upside to cabins at the back of the ship as well. I am a huge fan of the Club Lounge at the very back of the ship on the Royal deck on Avalon ships. If your cabin on that deck is closer to the back, you have easy access to this wonderful, relaxing area. If you’re looking for me, that’s where you’ll find me. Enjoying the view with a cup of hot cappuccino and a freshly baked muffin.

If your cabin is in the middle of the ship on the Royal Deck, you are equidistant from both the lobby and the Club Lounge. That’s perfection to me.

The downside to being either right at the front or back of the ship is noise. From people. If you are at the front, the evening entertainment may go on until 11PM and you won’t hear it, but you’ll hear the guests going to their cabins after the fun is over.

Same thing for the back. If everyone is congregating in the Club Lounge, playing cards etc. you’re going to hear that hubbub as well.

The back of the ship gets a tad more rocking motion due to proximity to the propellers. I have had customers say it lulls them to sleep, while others felt it was a distraction.

The River Cruise Specialists at The Joy of Travel know these ships like our own homes. That’s because they are our homes away from home. When you’re looking at an Avalon River cruise, let us know about any challenges or concerns and we’ll get you booked into the absolute best cabin location for your particular set of circumstances.

Your River Cruising Friend,
JOY