APT World Discoveries will have eight of its own Europe river ships by 2010 following a new order for a further two ships.

The fleet, representing a total investment of $200million, is the product of partnership between APT and Amadeus Waterways, one of Europe’s most experienced river cruise companies.

The APT Amadeus Waterways fleet includes: Amadagio (in service 2006), Amalegro (2007), Amacello (2008), Amadante (2008), Amalyra (2009) and Amadolce (2009). The ships in the new order entering service in 2010 have yet to be named.

APT General Managers Sales and Marketing Chris Hall, who last month inspected construction of Amacello and Amadante, said all eight ships offer 75 cabins (150 passengers), are 110m long for easy city port access and feature French balconies to maximise cabin comfort and living space.

“Private balcony cabins was a design concept developed back in the 90s, but all the experienced river cruise operators have rejected this design because of the adverse impact on the comfort inside the cabins caused by narrowing the interiors, and the limited use of the balconies by passengers,” he said.

“Balconies on ocean cruise ships were popular, he said, but they cannot be seen in the same light as river cruise ships.

“Ocean cruising have itineraries with ‘at sea’ days when spending time in your cabin and on your balcony is part of the experience."  "River cruising itineraries take you to a new town or city daily and the experience is around the beauty and surprises on both sides as you cruise along the river, so staying on the balcony or in the cabin are only likely to deliver 50% of the experience.”

“We feel the emphasis must be on interior cabin comfort, public space and expansive sun decks offering 360 degree views rather than smaller, exterior balconies that will have little use,” Mr Hall said.

He said APT and Amadeus Waterways ships had equal to the most spacious cabin interiors and more interior public space per passenger offered in the Australian marketplace. 

“Through our expert partners, we will continue to redefine, improve and optimise cabin design to enhance maximum customer satisfaction,” Mr Hall said.

A Report by The Mole