The launch of a new cruise ship is always a big event and we were at the launch of Avalon's new flagship, Panorama in Mainz, Germany, by her Australian  godmother,  Lisa Wilkinson. Although weather set to spoil the fun, the ceremony went off without a hitch as the co-host of the Today Show on the Nine Network in Australia cut the ribbon which released the champagne bottle which duly broke on Panorama's bow.

We're set for a four-night cruise along the picturesque Rhine gorge and Mosel Rivers through to Amsterdam, and already we’ve had plenty of time to check Panorama out from top to bottom and put her through her paces.

I can now see why river cruising has become so popular, particularly among Australian cruise fans. What sets this vessel apart from a lot of her competition, however, are those amazing windows – they open to transform your suite into an open air balcony so come hail, rain or shine you have those incredible views to enjoy. The entire ship is also very stylish, and classically elegant, with the feeling of a Four Seasons hotel rather than a traditional river cruiser. Our suite was spacious, with a decor featuring dark wood, red upholstery and splashes of vibrant colour intermixed with white, biscuit and cream.

The entire ship has a similar decor – they haven’t mixed it up too much. There’s a primary lounge area which doubles up as a bar, a club lounge which has self serve tea and coffee all day at the rear of the ship, and the one dining room operates in an open seating manner, although dinner is at the same time every night, 7pm.

Beyond that, facilities wise, Panorama has a small gym (not that you get much time to use it on a busy itinerary) a small hair salon, and an expansive sun deck on the top with an occasionally used al fresco bistro. The ship also has two computer stations and is Wi-Fi throughout, although as many of the working journalists on board discovered, some sections of the Rhine with steep inclines on either side impact on the internet signal significantly!

Undoubtedly Panorama is a ship which is easy on the eye and has plenty of bells and whistles. Another dining venue would have been a bonus, or at least the option of some room service beyond a continental brekkie, but I hear these are things which are being considered down the track. 

We'll report back after our next port of call in Rudesheim, I think!