Avalon Waterways Policies: Everything in One Place
This page pulls together the Avalon Waterways policies our advisors get asked about most - cancellation rules, baggage limits, booking and deposit terms, dining, gratuities, and more. Each topic has its own dedicated page linked below with the full details.
For 2026/2027 sailings, Avalon's standard fee schedule charges 50% of the total price from the final payment date up to 30 days before departure, 80% from 29-1 days, and 100% on the day of departure or later. A $250 per-person deposit (non-refundable, non-transferable) secures most bookings.
Since the fine print on Avalon Waterways's policies can differ by sailing date and fare type, checking with one of our advisors before you commit is the most reliable way to know where you stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Avalon Waterways's cancellation policy?
For 2026/2027 sailings, Avalon's standard fee schedule charges 50% of the total price from the final payment date up to 30 days before departure, 80% from 29-1 days, and 100% on the day of departure or later. A $250 per-person deposit (non-refundable, non-transferable) secures most bookings.
Does Avalon Waterways charge for checked baggage?
Given the smaller staterooms typical of river vessels, Avalon recommends packing light - one suitcase per person is the practical norm, since closet and under-bed storage is more limited than on an ocean ship.
How much is the deposit to book Avalon Waterways?
A $250 per-person deposit is standard for most sailings (higher for select ships and destinations), due at the time of booking.
Are gratuities included in the Avalon Waterways fare?
Gratuities are not included in Avalon's fare and are left to guest discretion, generally following the same rough guideline as AmaWaterways of roughly 10-15 euros per person, per day for onboard crew.
What's Avalon Waterways's Wi-Fi policy?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available fleet-wide, with speeds that vary depending on your location along the river.
Who can walk me through all of Avalon Waterways's policies at once?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and one of our advisors can go through cancellation, baggage, dining, and any other policy questions specific to your upcoming Avalon Waterways sailing.
How does Avalon Waterways's check-in process work?
Check-in takes place at the river cruise terminal or directly at the ship, a much quicker process than large ocean-ship embarkation.
What documents does Avalon Waterways require for boarding?
A passport valid 6+ months beyond your return date is required for essentially every Avalon itinerary, since river cruises through Europe and beyond cross multiple international borders.
Does Avalon Waterways have a loyalty program worth joining?
Avalon doesn't operate a formal points-based loyalty tier system, though repeat guests often receive advance notice of new itineraries and occasional loyalty discounts through their travel advisor.
What's Avalon Waterways's policy on sailing with kids?
Avalon's river itineraries are generally geared toward adult travelers rather than families with infants, given limited onboard childcare and compact cabin sizes.