Avalon Tranquility is a delight to be aboard - (but so was the Artistry!) The crew work very hard indeed - including some pretty unsocial hours - but never once did we see an unhappy face. They were, without exception, a great pleasure to be with. Their ability - and willingness - to speak my language, and apparently to enjoy doing so, never ceased to amaze me. As on our earlier Avalon cruise, we found the food unnecessarily copious, but our recollection is that the standard this time was not as high as we enjoyed aboard Artistry in September 2007. This could be 'distance lends enchantment...' or it could be the difference between one chef and another. Having said that, however, I did from time to time wonder whether Avalon are finding things difficult just now. Unlike 2007, the ship was not full - about 80% occupancy, I think - which, with more or less fixed costs leaves quite a hole! As I know from many years in business, it is a classic problem - how do you maintain quality when your revenue is being squeezed? Personally, I just adore being on the water so for me there was no problem. I think it is very clear, however, that compared with, say, between Nuremberg and Budapest, the Danube between Oltenita and Budapest is really pretty monotonous. The Iron Gates are spectacular of course, but that section is unique. Will we do another River Cruise? Honestly, at nearly 82, I rather think this was probably my last. All I can say is, that if we do, Blue Waters and Avalon will be on the very top of our list! Thank you for giving us such enjoyment.