London Olympic Gold medallist, Dr Katherine Grainger CBE swapped double scull rowing boats for luxury river cruise ships as she became godmother to Avalon Poetry II, one of two river cruise ships christened in a joint ceremony in Holland.

The river cruise 'Suite Ships' Avalon Poetry II and Avalon Impression were docked alongside each other on Saturday afternoon for a gala twin christening ceremony as worldwide travel industry and media guests gathered to witness the ships being blessed by their respective godmothers Katherine Grainger and American travel industry insider Mara DelliPriscoli.

Katherine Grainger commented: "I am both honoured and delighted to become godmother to the Avalon Poetry II.  It is clear that Avalon Waterways share my passion in creating a winning formula on the water and I have thoroughly enjoyed the occasion of the christening."

The two Suite Ships feature a modern approach to technology and design for the ultimate river cruise experience featuring two full decks of 'Panorama' suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that open to create open-air balconies as well as a range of onboard facilities and services. The spacious Suite Ships feature a Club lounge, Panorama lounge, Observation Lounge and dining room with sweeping views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, Sky Deck with Jacuzzi and Sky Bistro for outdoor, grilled lunches.  Other facilities include a hairdressers and fitness room with the latest equipment.

Post-christening, the Avalon Suite Ships will sail a range of itineraries on the Dutch Waterways, Rhine and the Danube rivers.

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About Katherine Grainger

As a silver medallist at three consecutive Olympics, and World Champion on six occasions, London 2012 was a huge opportunity for Katherine Grainger. Aged 36 she, and her partner Anna Watkins, stormed home to win the Gold medal for Team GB and provide one of the most thrilling moments of the Games.

Alongside rowing Katherine has achieved a Masters in Medical Law and a PhD in Homicide. In presentations, she talks about the challenge of combining academic and sporting careers. She recalls "the mixture of terror, fear, excitement, passion and emotion" at the beginning of a race - and describes the impact the Olympics has had on her life.

Katherine was chosen as one of the five athlete ambassadors for Team GB, responsible for promoting the message and legacy of the Games.

About Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands, an international travel company with offices worldwide.   Launched to the UK market in 2009, the luxury river cruise operator has quickly become one of the most recognised and fastest growing river cruise brands with a 98% customer satisfaction rating and boasting the youngest, quietest and most spacious fleet of ships currently on Europe's rivers.

By 2015, Avalon Waterways will feature ten 'Suite Ships' providing the ultimate European river cruise experience with spacious suites designed to enhance the cruising experience, state-of-the-art facilities, gourmet dining and the highest level of service.

For further information or to request a brochure ring Avalon Waterways on 0800 668 1801 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

For images of the christening event, Katherine Grainger or Avalon ships please contact:  Helen McNaught at the Avalon UK Press Office on 07968 418247 or (44) 208 695 4069 or email  hmcnaught@avaloncruises.co.uk