Avalon gets ready for christening ceremonies of its two new Suites Ship 
27.02.2013
Avalon gets ready for christening ceremonies of its two new Suites Ship
A range of guests and travel agents have been invited to the special ceremonies to celebrate the launch of these state-of-the-art ships to sail on European waterways. The specially appointed ‘godmothers’, will be on hand to officially christen the ships followed by celebratory cocktail receptions and dinners onboard. Expression’s godmother will be Patricia Schultz, US author of the bestseller ‘1,000 Places to See Before You Die’ whilst Artistry II’s godmother will be Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco, President and CEO OF Baron Travel, Philippines.
With the delivery of the two new vessels, the fleet will feature five ‘suite’ ships to meet the increasing demand for higher category staterooms as most Avalon passengers choose to upgrade to the highest level with many selecting the best suites on the ship.
After the christening ceremony, the 443 foot, 166-passenger Avalon Expression will sail the Legendary Danube, the Blue Danube Discovery and Magnificent Europe itineraries whilst the 361 foot 128-passenger Artistry II will sail the popular Romantic Rhine itinerary.
With a modern approach to technology and design for the ultimate river cruise experience, the Panorama suite is sized at 200 square feet – 30% larger than industry standard. The Royal suites measure 300 square feet and offer a king-size bed and full size designer bathroom and separate WC.
The ships feature two full decks of suites and have been carefully designed to enhance the European cruise experience to provide guests with a feeling of freedom, space and comfort from the bed and bathroom positioning to the spacious storage and sound-proof insulation. The suites feature a large seating area adjacent to a Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window. When opened, this 10’ x 7’ floor-to-ceiling window transforms the entire suite into the category’s only Open-Air BalconySM. With a focus on bringing the beautiful sights of Europe inside, Avalon’s Open-Air Balconies can be enjoyed throughout the day, all year long.
Every element of Avalon’s on-board experience has been created to provide the ultimate river cruise experience from fine dining, modern design and spacious public areas. With flowers in each stateroom or suite, premium L’Occitane products to marble bathrooms and Avalon-branded deluxe bedding all showcased with warm coloured interiors and natural lighting.
Mirroring the on board cruise experience found on all of Avalon’s ships, the Suite Ships also feature club and main lounges with outside viewing area, a bar and dining room with sweeping views, hairdressing salon, Sky Deck Jacuzzi and Open-Air Bistro for outdoor, grilled lunches. In addition, the fitness rooms aboard the Panorama, Visionary and Vista and soon to be launched Expression & Artistry are more expansive, featuring additional equipment.
Avalon Expression and Avalon Artistry II Panorama Suite Amenities:
· Wall to wall Panoramic Window measuring 11 ft – 50% wider than industry
· standard which transforms the living space into a large Open-Air Balcony
· Open Air Balcony with 6 person seating area
· Complimentary use of Apple iPad (Royal Suite only)
· Comfort Collection by Avalon featuring premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens and European-style duvets
· Choice of soft or firm pillows
· Extra blankets
· Choice of bed configuration
· Nightly turn-down service
· Bedside tables with reading lamps
· Large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer and premium L’Occitane bath amenities
· Spacious 3-door wardrobes with shelves for ample storage
· Easy under-bed luggage storage
· Flat screen satellite TV with movie channels
· Alarm Clock
· Writing desk/vanity with mirror and comfortable chair
· Complimentary wi-fi access
· Direct dial telephone
· Bathrobes and slippers
· Well-stocked mini-bar
· Complimentary bottled water
· In-room safe
· Individual climate control
· Continental breakfast and drinks room service available
Ends
Avalon ships and launch dates: Avalon Artistry II & Avalon Expression (2013); Avalon Vista & Visionary (2012); Avalon Angkor (2012); Avalon Panorama (2011); Avalon Felicity (2010); Avalon Luminary (2010); Avalon Affinity (2009); Avalon Creativity (2009); Avalon Scenery (2008); Avalon Imagery (2007); Avalon Tranquility (2007).