Avalon Expression
Occupancy: 166
Crew members: 47
Length: 443 feet
Built: 12013
 
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 Legendary Danube All-Gay River Cruise 2016
July 19 – 26, 2016
Avalon Waterways Avalon Expression
A Magical All-Gay River Cruise from Budapest. Next summer, discover the newest and most intimate RSVP experience yet as we sail the 5-star Avalon Expression from Budapest to Prague (via Nuremberg, Germany). You're invited to join 166 gay and lesbian friends on an unforgettable journey to some of the greatest cities in Eastern Europe. As we cruise the Danube together, we'll pamper you in regal style onboard our all-suite ship, featuring unique RSVP entertainment, engaging and enriching activities, and our friendly and welcoming team of hosts.
To make the most of your European adventure, let RSVP take care of all your pre- and post-cruise needs. Our optional extensions in Budapest and Prague give you the opportunity to seamlessly explore these incredible cities – all in 5-star comfort and luxury.
The World's Capitals Up Close and In Style
 We'll bring you right to the doorstep of some of the world's greatest cities – one of the true advantages of a river cruise. From Hungary's thriving capital city of Budapest, where castles and markets beckon and a vibrant gay life entices, our journey up the legendary Danube begins. You'll awake facing the foothills of Slovakia and our stop in Bratislava will allow you to explore the city's old town and remarkable cathedral. Our next two days take you into the heart of one of the world's most fascinating and storied cities with an overnight visit to Vienna. This "city of music" might simply be the most beautiful in all of Europe and you'll have plenty of time to explore her treasures both by day and night.
 As we head deeper into Austria, you'll have a chance to visit the fabled Wachau wine region, explore The Sound of Music's famed Salzburg, or take some extraordinary tours to the Czech Republic. Options abound, made so much easier since you never have to pack or unpack to take it all in.
Sailing into Germany, the pristinely preserved medieval city of Regensburg materializes on the horizon, dating back to the time of the Celts and unlike any other city in the country. Our final stops in Roth and Nuremberg offer a variety of tour options to explore the cities' fascinating history before transferring to Prague. Or of course you could continue your journey with us as we sail onward to Amsterdam!
RSVP Life On the River
 When you return home to Expression after a full day of sightseeing, RSVP and Avalon will make your evenings even more lively and captivating. Enrich your journey with wine and beer tastings, local artisan demonstrations, and expert destination talks. Join friends old and new for a game in the lounge, or find a comfortable chair in which to relax on the Sky Deck.
RSVP entertainment features a variety of options suiting an intimate ship style, including our legendary piano bar and cabaret entertainers, local performers brought on just for you, movie nights, and so much more. We'll make sure that you're always entertained, enriched, and enlightened.
The Perfect Ship for Exploring
 Avalon brings RSVP guests the youngest and most innovative fleet of ships in Europe, designed to offer panoramic access to our destinations with soaring views matched with relaxing spaces to unwind. From the moment you step onboard Expression, their English-speaking crew delivers consummate personal service throughout. Avalon Cruise Director (and RSVP favorite) Barbara Bocz will help you make the most of each day, delivering educational commentary on these alluring destinations.
Tantalizing meals served with regional wines and beers will delight your palette, and complimentary Wi-Fi access will allow you to stay connected to the outside world (even though you'll do your best to escape). Included shore excursions, led by certified local guides, offer VIP access to must-see sites and optional shore excursions allow you to take your enrichment experience to the next level.
And Everything You Love From RSVP
 With only 166 guests onboard, you'll experience both a unique sense of community and an unmatched level of personal service from our welcoming and engaging Team RSVP. They will be your hosts throughout, and their passion for the region and attention to detail will make your journey personal, engaging, and fun in ways you never imagined. Everything we do is designed to make you feel welcome, relaxed, and entertained in a place where you belong.
RSVP has completely customized this itinerary for maximum enjoyment, with extended time in ports and unique experiences matched with a few surprises to delight you along the way. Our experience over the past 30 years has brought thousands of friends together on ships large and small, in places near and far, but always with a common goal of sharing the magic of travel together.
Join us next summer as we explore the Danube on our newest RSVP adventure!
 Accommodating a maximum of 166 passengers, the all-suite Avalon Expression offers RSVP guests the perfect ship to explore this incredible region. Contemporary open spaces provide plenty of seating and cozy spots to relax. Meticulous millwork, hand-applied finishes, modern décor, and designer lighting surround you, creating a place to relax and immerse yourself in the wonders of your river cruise adventure.
Unique onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, an expanded fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro.
 Here are a few of the key features that make Expression incredible:
• Included Shore Excursions
• Champagne Included with Breakfast
• Wine & Beer Included with Dinner
• English-Speaking Hospitality Desk
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access (unavailable in some areas)
• Most Suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
• Optional Pre-Cruise Extension in Budapest, Hungary
• Optional Post-Cruise Extension in Prague, Czech Republic
• Transfers to/from the airport to our host hotels (for guests on Pre/Post-Cruise Extensions)
• Transfers to/from our host hotel to Expression (for guests on Pre/Post-Cruise Extensions)
Farm-to-Table Dining
 Much of Expression's delicious cuisine is sourced locally and designed for discerning tastes. Our onboard culinary staff delivers hearty and satisfying fare with their signature European service. The spacious dining room provides an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere and unimpeded views through full panoramic windows. And of course as with all RSVP vacations, you're free to sit wherever you want and with whomever you want. It's the perfect way to meet friends old and new in a relaxed setting.
 Begin your mornings early or late – it's your choice. Ether way, a sumptuous breakfast awaits. And, for those times when a quiet Continental breakfast in bed sounds appealing, breakfast room service is also available (service fee applies). Enjoy lunch inside or outside. We think you'll agree the delightful open-air seating is the perfect place to lunch while admiring the passing scenery. Dinnertime beckons with 5-star service, the finest chef-inspired recipes, and complimentary regional wines and beers. With good food, great friends, and a casually elegant setting, your dining experience onboard is sure to be a memorable one.
The Most Innovative River Boat Staterooms
 After a day of sightseeing, nothing feels better than retreating to your own personal sanctuary. Within your deluxe stateroom or suite, you'll savor the luxury of spacious, well-appointed rooms. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard. Since most staterooms feature a large floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with an innovative open-air French balcony, you'll experience Europe's beauty and history even while inside. And that means a more comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable vacation for you.
Avalon has been the industry leader in stateroom design, starting with an innovative all-suite concept that is unique in all of Europe. Take a look at our video on the left to see more.
Included Amenities
Ship
• Elegant, contemporary design
• Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
• Non-smoking interior
• Elevator
Sky Deck
• Outside viewing deck with premium lounge chairs
• Shade awnings
• Whirlpool
• Game area
Service
• English-speaking crew
• Avalon and RSVP Cruise Directors working together
• Onboard assistance to recommend, reserve, and further personalize your cruise
Sightseeing
• Included Shore Excursions - Choice of Leisurely, Traditional, or Independent sightseeing options
• Optional Shore Excursions to explore each destination even further. Booked and paid for onboard.
• Certified Local Guides
• Headsets for all guided shore excursions
• Biking excursions available in Dürnstein
• Use of Nordic walking sticks
• Complimentary maps
Activities
• Nightly entertainment
• Onboard lectures with local experts and artisans
• Behind-the-scenes ship tours
• Expanded "on-demand" in-room entertainment
Dining
• Onboard experiences with local chefs
• Self-serve beverage station with complimentary tea, hot chocolate, & premium coffees
• Open air dining on Sky Deck
• Alternate light lunch and dinner in the Panorama Bistro
• Room service for continental breakfast & beverages (service fee applies)
Services
• Internet Corner
• Expanded Fitness Center
• Hair salon (manicures available)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access (unavailable in some areas)
• Well-stocked library
Add-on Amenities
Avalon will offer both an alcoholic beverage package and a non-alcoholic beverage package that may be purchased through RSVP approximately 120 days before departure. The 2016 costs are still being determined, but guests can expect to pay around 21 Euro per day for the non-alcoholic package and around 37 Euro per day for the alcoholic package. Here's what's included with each package:
Non-Alcoholic Package:
• Unlimited house wine (white, red, rosé – without alcohol)
• Unlimited Sparkling wine (without alcohol)
• Unlimited soft drinks and juices
• Unlimited non-alcoholic cocktails
• Unlimited espresso, cappuccino, tea, (at the bar)
• Unlimited Non-alcoholic drinks from the mini-bar
• Unlimited bottles of mineral water (sparkling/ still)
Alcoholic Package:
• Unlimited house wine (white, red, rosé – with or without alcohol)
• Unlimited Sparkling wine (with or without alcohol)
• Unlimited ChampAvalon Cocktail
• Unlimited draught beer
• Unlimited soft drinks and juices
• Unlimited cocktails
• Unlimited spirits (premium and top shelf)
• Unlimited long drinks
• Unlimited espresso, cappuccino, tea (at the bar)
• Unlimited bottles of mineral water (sparkling/ still)
• Unlimited drinks from the mini-bar
• 25% discount on any bottle from the wine list (including Champagne)
In order to properly stock the bars onboard, these packages will be booked in advance through RSVP; they will not be sold onboard. Look for the booking notice email with final pricing and instructions approximately 4 months before departure.
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Legendary Danube All-Gay River Cruise 2016 Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 19 Jul |
Budapest, Hungary |
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9:30 PM |
| 20 Jul |
Bratislava, Slovakia |
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| 21 Jul |
Vienna, Austria |
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| 22 Jul |
Vienna, Austria |
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| 23 Jul |
Dürnstein/Melk, Austria |
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| 24 Jul |
Aschach/Vilshofen, Austria |
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| 25 Jul |
Regensburg, Germany |
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| 26 Jul |
Roth/Nuremberg, Germany |
12:30 PM |
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Due to the nature of river cruising with ever-changing lock schedules and boat traffic, arrival and departure times can vary greatly and are subject to change without notice. Therefore, we don't list times in our Cruise Itinerary Snapshot. However, you'll always know the planned arrival and departure time for each port the night before we arrive.
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Budapest, Hungary - July 19, 2016
 Before your journey on Expression begins, be sure to experience one of Budapest's unique ruin bars (Szimpla Kert is our favorite!) and also taste why Hungary is an emerging player on the world's culinary scene.
Bratislava, Slovakia - July 20, 2016
 As you relax onboard this morning, Hungary is on your left and Slovakia is on your right. At the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains is Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Join your local guide to explore its fascinating Old Town, where winding cobblestone streets twist and turn to reveal the Town Hall and St. Martin's Cathedral.
Vienna, Austria - July 21, 2016
 Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's magical capital on the blue Danube is a showcase of gilded architecture. We'll have two full days and an overnight to explore this wondrous "City of Music," said by many to be among the most beautiful in all of Europe.
Vienna, Austria - July 22, 2016
 Vienna is home to the lavish Hofburg Imperial Palace complex with its Vienna Boys' Choir and dazzling Lipizzaner stallions; the neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House; and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral. Stroll through the pedestrian Kärntnerstrasse, and be sure to enjoy a piece of decadent Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in one of the classic Viennese coffee houses.
Dürnstein/Melk, Austria - July 23, 2016
 Dürnstein, situated in the heart of the Wachau wine region and best known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, will certainly be a highlight. Above Dürnstein are the ruins of the castle where England's King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Hike up the hill for magnificent views of the town and river. During lunchtime, we'll sail to Melk, where you'll enjoy a guided visit to the city's 11th-century Benedictine Abbey.
Aschach/Vilshofen, Austria - July 24, 2016
 Now that the islands are all past, you can really settle in to your vacation! No doubt you'll still want to explore Nieuw Amsterdam, but regardless…this day is totally yours. Enjoy the warm weather, see a matinee performance of one of our signature entertainers, enjoy a lick at the Bear Ice Cream Social, or just lounge in your deck chair until the sun sets. It's all up to you.
Regensburg, Germany - July 25, 2016
 Dating back to the time of the Celts around 500 BC, Regensburg is one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities since it was the only German city not bombed during WWII. Experience the 13th-century Old Town Hall, walk across the 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Stone Bridge) or grab a beer and enjoy a snack at the Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen).
Roth/Nuremberg, Germany - July 26, 2016
 Today, you can choose from an included guided sightseeing tour, where you'll marvel at the city's medieval fortifications, gothic churches, and Imperial Castle, or you can join a Nuremberg Rally Grounds tour, where you'll explore one of the most historic sites of the war. Note that guests on our Legendary Danube Cruise will be departing and those on our European Splendor Cruise will be joining as guests combining both cruises reach the mid-way point of their adventure.
For a more in-depth look at our Legendary Danube River Cruise, please download our Detailed Itinerary & Excursion Guide. In it, you'll find everything you'll need to know about the itinerary and all included and optional excursions. This valuable information is the key to unlocking the adventure that awaits you!
Optional Pre-Cruise Experience – Budapest
July 17-19, 2016
 With its abundance of beautiful parks, luxury shopping, a vibrant contemporary art scene, and pulsating nightlife, Budapest is one of the most memorable cities in Central Europe. Beautifully restored for a new generation of traveler, Corinthia Hotel Budapest is one of the grandest hotels in the city. Corinthia has partnered with RSVP to create a truly seamless and harmonious experience for you the moment you step into Hungary.
Your optional pre-cruise package includes:
• 2 nights at the 5-Star Corinthia Hotel Budapest (the inspiration for Wes Anderson's Oscar-winning Grand Budapest Hotel)
• Daily Breakfast
• Transfer from Budapest's Ferenc Liszt International Airport to the Corinthia
• Welcome Cocktail Reception
• Orientation Meeting
• Budapest Sightseeing Tour
• Hosted Hospitality Desk
• Transfer from the Corinthia to the Expression
Budapest pre-cruise package prices:
July 17-19, 2016
Double Occupancy - $409pp
Single Occupancy - $578
Additional Nights
Double Occupancy - $150pp
Single Occupancy - $239
Optional Post-Cruise Experience – Prague
July 26-28, 2016
 In a magic capital, where past times have left an indelible and mysterious mark, there stands a neoclassical palace of incredible elegance: the 5-star Luxury Boscolo Prague Hotel – also known as the Boscolo Carlo IV. The scent of old wood, the splendid marble, the classical gables, the finishing, the stucco work: everything offers an exclusive welcome.
Let RSVP seamlessly handle your post-cruise experience with:
• 2 nights at the luxurious Boscolo Prague Hotel
• Daily breakfast
• Transfer from the Expression in Nuremberg to the Boscolo (approximately 3.5 hours)
• Prague Sightseeing Tour
• Hosted Hospitality Desk
• Transfer from the Boscolo to Prague's Václav Havel Airport on day of departure
Prague post-cruise package prices:
July 26-28, 2016
Double Occupancy - $429pp
Single Occupancy - $628
Additional Nights
Double Occupancy - $169pp
Single Occupancy - $269
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