Avalon Waterways plans new river ship for Mekong

Avalon Waterways has announced plans to cruise further into the Far East by increasing its fleet – and vacation portfolio – with another Suite Ship for the Mekong River, the Avalon Saigon.

“Southeast Asia is our fastest growing portfolio,” said Stéphanie Bishop of Avalon’s Canadian office. “Our clients love the combination of the sleek new vessels with the chance to experience the sights, cultures and traditions of Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar.” The ships – which accommodate 36 passengers who are served by 28 crew - have been designed to sail into destinations not available to larger river cruising ships, she said.

On Avalon’s new Southeast Asia Suite Ships – the Avalon Saigon, Avalon Myanmar and Avalon Siem Reap – travellers may experience Avalon Suites each with 245 sq. ft. of living space. The new ships introduce travellers in Asia to Avalon’s signature Open-Air Balconies featuring floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic windows measuring over four meters wide with retractable screen systems and doors that slide open almost three meters, creating the feeling of sitting outside.

In addition to introducing the new Avalon Saigon, the company is adding a new itinerary to see and explore Vietnam & Cambodia. The Heart of Cambodia & Vietnam is a new 18-day journey through Cambodia and Vietnam. Passengers will not only enjoy an immersive cruise on the Mekong River; after flying to Hanoi, they will embark on a two-day cruise of Ha Long Bay.

By booking a 2018 or 2019 river cruise to Southeast Asia by June 6 this year, customers have the option to save up to $2,600 per couple. Avalon Waterways is also catering to solo travellers by waiving the single supplement on select Avalon Irrawaddy and Mekong river cruise departures.

Avalon’s other exotic cruise offerings in 2018 will include the Yangtze River, the Nile, Amazon River and Galápagos Islands. For more information, visit www.AvalonWaterways.ca.