Announced this week in New York, the US magazine’s annual rankings place Avalon Waterways at number two on the list of the world’s “top ten small-ship cruise lines”, the highest ranking of any river cruise operator. The overall category winner was the ocean cruise operator Yachts of Seabourn.

The accolade comes as Avalon prepares to christen its latest luxury ship Avalon Creativity next month, the second new addition to its fleet this year. A further two new ships will be introduced next year, lifting the total European fleet to 10 luxury ships with an average age of less than three years.

Travel + Leisure Editor-in-Chief Nancy Novogrod highlighted value among the key factors in determining the 2009 award winners.

“This year’s results reflect our readers’ travel interests in this challenging economic reality - value, intimacy, service, and discovery are top priorities,” Ms Novogrod said.

Avalon Waterways operates amongst the widest selection of river cruises available in Europe, with 22 itineraries on the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Rhône and Seine rivers.

Avalon’s small-scale, state-of-the-art vessels are among the most modern available, offering luxurious accommodation and superb dining. Each stateroom is elegantly fitted and features sliding glass doors that open the cabin to the passing scenery outside.

Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands and is represented in South Africa by Holiday Tours. Further information, itineraries, and brand new 2010 cruise brochures available via 011 289 8058 or globus@holidaytours.co.za

AFP