ROOM with a VIEW

You don’t need to leave the ship to glimpse the rolling landscapes of the French countryside, writes Trupti Biradar

THE ROUTE

Sailing the Rhône river northbound from Arles to Lyon over eight days. On its long journey to the sea, the river meanders through Lyon, France’s third largest city; Tournon-sur-Rhône, an idyllic village; mediaeval town Vivers, population 4000; Avignon, once the seat of power for the Catholic Church; Camargue National Park, wetlands that are home to wild horses and pink flamingos; and, of course, Arles, where Van Gogh lived before his infamous descent into insanity.

THE ROOM

My cabin is a panorama suite that comes with wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that open out onto the only open-air balcony in the river cruising industry. My bed faces the window, meaning there were plenty of times during my eight days on board that I was perfectly content to just lie there and watch the spectacular pastoral landscapes of southern France roll by like a live, animated Van Gogh painting.

L’Occitane toiletries are stocked in the bathroom, and you’ll find all the other amenities you’d expect of a 5-star hotel.

There’s an extremely comfortable double bed, small fridge, coffee table, couch and a TV that’s set to play a comforting fire video and classical music when I return to my room after dinner each night.

THE FOOD

The food on board is nothing short of incredible, and the variety is impressive. Three meals a day are served at the Panorama Dining Room, often incorporating fresh produce and wines from the region we’ve just sailed through. Expect everything from salad bars, pasta and carving stations to four-course dinners and innumerable desserts. There are also plenty of healthy options available and almost all dietary requirements are catered for.

If you’re peckish during the day, head to the back of the ship where there’s coffee, tea, games and snacks – including fresh doughnuts, which proved a crowd favourite.

STEPPING OUT

The sheer variety of included and extra shore excursions means your biggest problem is trying to deal with the

constant feeling of FOMO when you hear what the other group did when sharing notes over dinner.

Excursions are divided into a choice of “classic”, “active” and “discovery”, and range from foodie walking tours and painting classes to cycling tours, hikes, and kayak excursions.

In my time on board, I learned to paint like Van Gogh, explored Avignon on a walking tour, rail-biked along the Gorges du Doux, ate all the sausages in Lyon and climbed hundreds of steps to the very top of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – the highest point of Lyon. Excursions can be as active or leisurely as you choose.

TACKLING OVERTOURISM

The cruise company is serious about not contributing to overcrowding, and so partner with every town and village on the itinerary.

“We work with local authorities and businesses to make our visits mutually beneficial and not impact negatively on the community,” says Pam Hoffee, president, Avalon Waterways. Initiatives include employing local guides and drivers, purchasing local produce and assisting with jobs in the area.

Avalon Waterways has what they call a “small traveller footprint”. Their ships in Europe hold a maximum of 166 guests, while those in Southeast Asia, carry just 36 travellers.

“We are also visiting new destinations that are interested in welcoming travellers and increasing tourism, and we have been actively pursued by new towns along rivers,” Hoffee says.

“One example is Engers, in Germany, a charming port city on the Rhine. They were interested in having our ships call in. Working in partnership with the local community we now host an evening concert with local musicians for our guests at their beautiful castle, bringing income to the community and [creating] a memorable experience for our guests.”

THE SUSTAINABILITY

Avalon’s fleet features technology that limits energy consumption. Each vessel has a propulsion system that uses 20% less fuel than the industry standard. “Our ships provide captains and crew with the tools they need to review and monitor fuel consumption as they sail. Careful planning of sailing schedules also ensures a higher level of fuel efficiency,” says Hoffee.

Avalon Waterways has implemented several strategies designed to be efficient, including upgraded sewage treatment plants – ensuring clean water is discharged back into rivers, the installation of energy and water efficient laundry machines on every ship, as well as several waste management strategies that include encouraging passengers to use the AvalonGo app, rather than paper maps and itineraries.

The cruise line has also adopted a fleet-wide “smart purchasing” plan to reduce food waste. “We purchase and prepare only the food we need, based on

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT

Poetry

II on the Rhône. The view from a panorama suite. Large windows make the most of the scenery that unfolds. There’s much to explore in Lyon. Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge. a sophisticated monitoring and measurement system. And in Southeast Asia, when there is waste, we deliver it to local farms and villages for farm animal sustenance,” Hoffee says.

THE HIGHLIGHT

Cruise director Jean Loup was one of the most charismatic and endearing hosts I’ve ever encountered. He took a great experience and elevated it to an utterly unforgettable one. It’s not often one person can have such a profoundly positive effect on a travel experience. If you happen to be on a cruise with him, do seek him out for a chat.

THE ESSENTIALS

Avalon Waterways’ Poetry II cruises the Rhône and Saône Rivers through France between March and October. Prices (at the time of publication) start from $6255 for 2023 departures. See avalonwaterways.co.nz for the latest deals and inclusions.

THE VIBE A relaxed blend of luxury and comfort, ideal for Kiwi travellers who want to see Europe, stay fit, and do it in style.