Luxury River Cruise Comparison

Avalon Waterways or Riviera River Cruises — which one delivers the better Burgundy & Provence experience? Join RTE-Travel Talk as we compare these two leading European river cruise lines side by side to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your next journey through France.

In this episode of RTE Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken sits down with Susan Blume, owner of Personal Escape Travel, who recently sailed with Avalon Waterways and also toured Riviera’s Lord Byron. Together they break down what sets these two river cruise lines apart — from ship design and onboard vibe to inclusions, dining, and overall value.

Ship Design & Comfort: Avalon’s modern, contemporary ships feature its signature Panorama Suites with beds facing the river and wall-to-wall windows that open to the water. Riviera’s Lord Byron embraces timeless Art Deco luxury with gleaming brass, polished wood, and a more traditional European flair.
Onboard Atmosphere: Avalon attracts a younger, more active traveler, offering sunrise yoga, cycling, kayaking, and its lively “Avalon After Dark” evenings. Riviera delivers a slower, sophisticated pace — elegant yet relaxed, perfect for travelers who enjoy fine conversation and classic comfort.
Inclusions & Value: Avalon includes daily excursions in three styles — Classic, Active, and Discovery — plus beer and wine with meals and a nightly happy hour. Riviera features an open bar from 10 a.m. to midnight and is introducing a dedicated ship for solo travelers with 50 departures next year — a first in river cruising.
Dining & Service: Avalon’s menus emphasize regional cuisine, flexibility, and 24-hour room service, while Riviera offers refined multi-course dining in beautifully appointed settings. Both lines earn high marks for attentive, personalized service.
Who It’s For: Choose Avalon Waterways for an active, contemporary experience with diverse excursions and American-style service. Choose Riviera River Cruises for European elegance, open-bar value, and a relaxed onboard rhythm.

If you’re comparing Avalon vs. Riviera, this detailed discussion offers the insight you need to make the right choice for your Burgundy & Provence river cruise — straight from an expert who’s experienced both.

Video is timestamped for your convenience.