Last week, Avalon Waterways revealed that it has chosen award-winning author Diana Gabaldon as the godmother to the line’s forthcoming Avalon Tapestry II.
Gabaldon, who is perhaps most well-known for the New York Times bestselling series OUTLANDER, will christen the Avalon Tapestry II on March 24, 2105 in a ceremony taking place in Les Andelys, France. When she smashes the traditional bottle of champagne against the hull, she will also inaugurate Avalon’s first-ever Suite Ship in France. She’s not just an award-winning author, though: Gabaldon holds a Ph.D. in Quantitative Behavioral Ecology with a specialty in scientific computation.
“I’ve been invited to do everything from leading parades to being installed as a Lady of the Quebec Garrison of the 78th Highlanders,” said Gabaldon. “But being godmother to a lovely ship will be a new and fabulous experience! I’m looking forward to new adventures – and doubtless good food – while exploring the history-lined rivers of Europe!”
“Ms. Gabaldon has added to the storytelling tapestry of our lives while also inspiring travel with her literature,” said Patrick Clark, Avalon’s Managing Director. “In her OUTLANDER books – now a popular television series on STARZ – she has brought to life the historic, 18th century backdrops of Scotland as well as dozens of other destinations, including the ports of La Havre and Paris, two places featured on the christening cruise aboard the Avalon Tapestry II. She is an inspiring storyteller and inspired choice as godmother for this Suite Ship that will soon deliver travelers to the heart of Europe, encouraging them to explore all that France has to offer while enjoying panoramic views day and night, along the way.”
Like the rest of Avalon’s trendsetting Suite Ships, Avalon Tapestry II will feature two full decks of suites. “Each suite has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the European cruise experience,” continued Clark. “From bed and bathroom positioning to storage and sound-proof insulation, we provide cruisers a renewed feeling of freedom, space and comfort not found with other cruise lines.”
Avalon’s suites aboard Avalon Tapestry II will feature a large seating area next to what Avalon calls a “Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window.” It’s a ten-by-seven-foot floor to ceiling window that effectively transforms the entire suite into an open-air balcony, thereby letting in the sights, sounds and scents of Europe.
Onboard the Avalon Tapestry II, public spaces and amenities will be similar to those found on Avlaon’s existing Suite Ships, all of which can trace their origins back to the line’s first such vessel, the Avalon Panorama. Guests will be able to enjoy a number of distinctive features and spaces, including a forward-facing Main Lounge; a dining room with expansive window views; and even an open-air bistro for alternative outdoor grill lunches. Avalon Tapestry II will also have an open Sky Deck complete with whirlpool; and a separate fitness room and hair salon.
When she enters service next March, Avalon Tapestry II will sail Avalon’s Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches and the 16-day Grand France journeys from Paris to Arles or reverse.
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