Avalon Poetry II Review

Avalon Poetry II is one of the smallest of Avalon Waterways' suite ships. The 128-passenger vessel launched in 2014 along with suite ships Avalon Illumination and Avalon Impression, but it's a full 82 feet shorter than most of the ships in its class. Poetry II does have sister ships -- Visionary and Artistry II, launched in 2012 and 2013, respectively.

The size difference between the smaller twins and the rest of Avalon's suite class of ship is most evident in two areas: the number of staterooms onboard (nearly 20 fewer) and the smaller square footage of the ships' forward lounge and dining room. Despite its smaller stature, Poetry II features the same innovative design in its cabins and forward social spaces that have become Avalon's signature.

Avalon's panorama suites boast retractable windowed walls known as open-air balconies or French balconies, which are arguably the biggest sell for these ships. The innovative design allows 11-by-7-foot panoramic sliding-glass doors to open up the accommodations. Apart from the breezy views, though, a secondary benefit to these cabins is the added square footage. Tacking on the space that would be used for a balcony inside the stateroom means that panorama suites measure 200 square feet, larger than the industry average.

Avalon has also opted to drop the prow section of its ships slightly, creating an interesting split-level design that creates both cozy nooks and a pleasing sense of spaciousness, particularly on the ship's third deck and upper deck. If you look down the third floor stateroom corridor, for example, the view opens from a narrow passage to the expanse of the reception and main lounge. The split-level top deck has the same effect, making the ships feel longer than they are, while also creating two separate spaces -- one full of loungers for sun-seekers and one full of tables for those who want to chat or read a book. The lower decks, too, feel tucked away. Only three decks can fit in the dropped prow, so the dining room is positioned midway between the bottom and middle decks, and it's much closer to the waterline than on most river cruise ships.

Avalon has much to offer in addition to these signature designs, particularly in decor and dining. Cabins are comfortably furnished, with memory foam mattress toppers and plush pillows and duvets. Flat-screen televisions offer a plethora of options (including nine fireplace settings), and spacious bathrooms feature marble countertops, glass shower doors and L'Occitane bath products.

Breakfast and lunch are both served buffet-style, but the quality of available fare is notably high. Dinners are superb, and whether you're adventurous or prefer to stick to the "always available" menu, you'll find something tasty.

Finally, cruises on Poetry II are port-intensive, so they're great for anyone who enjoys European history and sightseeing. And, unlike sailings on mega-ships, most shore excursions -- and wine and beer at lunch and dinner -- are included in the pricing.