Pittwater Life February 2023 Issue

Travel Life
Travel Life
Cruise Portugal’s Douro Valley
Avalon Waterways is redefining cruising
by going against the current and away
from the ordinary.
“Delivering unparalleled experiences,
Avalon puts guests in the captain’s seat to
navigate their journey, fuel their passions
and steer clear of the unexpected as they
cruise down the world’s most memorable
and mesmerising waterways,” said Travel
View’s Sharon Godden.
“In 2024, Avalon will make their Douro
debut with a new itinerary and Suite Ship –
the Avalon Alegria. Marking their 15th Suite
Ship in Europe and first sailings in Portugal,
Avalon are now poised to give cruisers the
newest view of the Old World.”
Sharon said hillside vineyards and historic
villages await as you set sail through
Portugal’s postcard-perfect views on their
all-new, eight-day cruise beginning and
ending in opulent Porto.
“You’ll uncover medieval castles,
legendary landscapes, and all the vinho,
olives, and cheese your soul desires with
Avalon’s wide range of included daily
excursion choices – from wine tastings and
bike tours to traditional sightseeing with
expert Local Guides.
“Featuring everything from ancient
Amarante – in the picturesque Minho
region – to the sandstone architecture in
Salamanca Spain, this new cruise promises
countless ways to experience the region’s
scenic splendours and renowned cuisine.”
Living up to its name (which, in
Portuguese, means happiness), Sharon
says the Avalon Alegria – like the rest of
Avalon’s fleet of modern, award-winning
Suite ShipsSM – combines the perfect blend
of elegance and ease – where little touches
are bold, gestures are grand and the views
even grander.
“The Alegria will include Avalon’s
signature, boutique-hotel-inspired
Panorama Suites on two full decks. Each
suite provides guests 200 square-feet of
living space and features the industry’s only
Open-Air Balcony, with the widest-opening
windows in cruising and decadent Comfort
Collection beds that face the scenery.”
This new Suite Ship, built exclusively to
sail the Douro, will accommodate just 102
guests and 33 crew members. Onboard
amenities include an Adventure Centre
with complimentary active gear, an Avalon
Adventure Host to assist with active
excursions and onboard fitness activities,
and a Sky Deck with a swimming pool for
guests to soak in the Portuguese sun.
On board guests can enjoy a culinary
experience as delectable as their sweet sail
down the river.
“From craft cocktails and regional wines
to inspired menus and artisanal dishes,
your gastronomical journey will be fuelled
with a beautiful balance of local flavour,
served in your choice of dining venue.”
*With Avalon’s current New Year Sale,
book and deposit your Douro River
cruise by 28 February 2023 and save up
to $1,400 per couple; more info call Travel
View on 9918 4444.
82 FEBRUARY 2023
The Local Voice Since 1991