Welcome and Initial Impressions
- Brad Kaplan
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
There is a unique kind of electricity that buzzes through the air on the first day of a grand vacation (or holiday as the Europeans refer to it). Today, that electricity was officially colored in shades of Dutch orange and canal blue. My long-anticipated 8-day voyage through Holland and Belgium has officially begun! For months, I have been finalizing itineraries, confirming flight details, and dreaming of the iconic waterways of the Netherlands.
Touching Down in the Netherlands
Our adventure began at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, much like many great European journeys. After a long 10-hour flight, stepping off can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with the new entry requirements into Europe. But the excitement of a river cruise means the stress fades as soon as you land. Seeing our cruise transfer team in their uniforms, holding their sign that says “Avalon Waterways,” waiting in the arrivals hall was a huge relief. In no time, our luggage was whisked away, and I was relaxing in a comfy transfer vehicle, watching the beautiful, flat Dutch landscape roll by the windows.
It’s worth noting for any travelers planning this route in the future: Avalon requires passenger flights to arrive by 3:00 PM. Why? Because the experience waiting for you at the dock is not one you want to rush! Also, it is a logistics issue regarding pick up and transportation
First Impressions: Stepping Aboard the Ship
Arriving at the docks, the elegance of the ship immediately commanded attention. It looked less like a standard boat and more like a sleek, boutique hotel that just happened to be floating.
Although most, if not all, river ships are designed with similar size and shape due to river requirements, the Panorama felt distinctly different.
The embarkation process was seamless. As I ascended the gangway, I was warmly greeted with friendly smiles and a refreshing welcome drink. Within minutes, I was escorted to my stateroom. My escort took a few moments to explain various features of the room.
When I walked into my cabin, the "wow" factor was immediate. For anyone who thinks cruise cabins are cramped, this ship proves otherwise. The famous wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling window turns the entire room into an open-air balcony.
One of the best part of river cruising? You only have to unpack once. The stateroom room is now my home for the next 8 days, and the entire spectacular skyline of where ever we are is just inches from my bed.
An Afternoon in a 700-Year-Old City (OR not)
Plans change, and you have to learn to roll with them. Initially, the ship was to be docked and boarded in Amsterdam, but something changed a week or so before the trip, and its docking location was changed, about 45 minutes away from Amsterdam. Although this was disappointing, it is part of the experience. I was able to roll with the flow and
Dinner, Cast Off, and Looking Ahead
As the clock struck 5:00 PM, I headed to the top deck to watch the remaining passengers board. Soon, the bulk of the passengers (including me) moved to the main dining room for the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
As I enjoyed an amazing meal (the culinary experience on these ships is truly top-tier!), I felt the subtle, smooth movement of the ship. We had officially cast off. The skyline began to slowly glide past our windows, sparkling as the evening lights came on. We are now on our way. The day was mine to relax, explore, and get settled, but the adventure had only just begun. Tomorrow, we wake up in a completely new destination.
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