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Lisa S.

Sailing Through Surprises: Lessons from My Recent River Cruise

Updated: Jun 25


I recently returned from a 7-night cruise on Avalon Waterways, where we sailed round-trip from Amsterdam on a Tulip Time voyage. 


I’ve been on river cruises in the past and was well-versed in the itinerary, but my voyage was still filled with new takeaways.


A close-up photo of a bouquet of colorful flowers in a glass vase. The flowers include tulips, roses, and lilies.

Below are four of them I’d like to share with you:


Special Dietary Needs? No Problem!


Planning a vacation when you have special dietary needs can be a bit daunting. 


Where do you eat? Will the food be prepared safely? On river cruises, it is not a problem. They truly desire that each guest has a positive experience onboard and realize that dining is a large part of that experience. The chef consults with guests on day one to learn about specific needs and then comes up with a plan that is safe and workable for everyone. 


I loved seeing the joy dining brought to my client on this cruise, as food is usually so problematic for him.


A group photo in front of Avalon Passion

The Pros of Early Season Sailings


We were on the first voyage of the season, which came with some pros and cons. 


Our staterooms were ready right when we boarded, instead of the usual 4 p.m., because no one had used them the previous week. There was a buzz in the air, and the crew was fresh and responsive. 


Even the towns and cities we visited were less crowded than usual, since we were on the edge of the river cruise season.


4 people riding a bike and posing for a photo

River Cruising is What You Make It


What is it that you’d like your river cruise to be? 


Relaxing? No problem. Sit in the lounge and enjoy the beautiful views as the river passes you by. 


Active? That’s easy. Join a morning yoga class or a guided bike ride through the countryside. Social?


Travel with a group of friends or simply invite someone you meet onboard to dine with you. It’s an intimate setting, so it’s easy to get to know others on the ship. 


Not social? There are plenty of tables for two to enjoy your meals in peace, and the quiet lounge at the back of the ship can be your personal sanctuary.


A couple enjoying their food.

Anticipate Unexpected Delights


Each cruise itinerary has a few “biggies” that guests look forward to: Keukenhof in Holland, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, castles along the Rhine, etc. 


However, I never cease to be amazed at the unexpected delights I encounter along the way. Each voyage is so much more than the headliner destinations. On this particular voyage, our optional excursion to Bruges absolutely captured my heart (and not only due to the incredible waffles!). 


Then, the tiny, charming towns of Veere and Willemstad made me wish I could linger in Holland a little longer.



I truly believe that a journey down the river connects you to a place in a unique, intimate way.


If you’re ready to be surprised and delighted by a river cruise experience, I’d love to help you find the right fit.


Feel free to email me any time or click here to schedule a time to chat. I’ll look forward to it!



River Cruise Destination Guide



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