APT invests in third Europe river cruise ship

Australian Pacific Touring is building a third European river cruise ship, the travel company announced today, with the 150 passenger ms Amacello a sister ship to ms Amadagio introduced in 2006 and ms Amalegro which launches in March this year.

The new vessel is expected to be in service for the 2008 season.

APT international cruise-touring division, APT World Discoveries, has partnered with Amadeus Waterways to commission the building of the 6-star ships, which APT claims has set a new standard in river cruising. 

They represent a significant investment by the McGeary family-owned travel company, this year celebrating its 80^th year. The ships are offered to Australian travellers exclusively through APT.

APT’s Geoff McGeary said APT had pioneered the luxury European river cruising product for the Australian market eight years ago.

“The concept was an instant success,” he said. “Stunning scenery, history, architecture and culture are stand-outs in their own right, but when you add the comforts of a luxury rivership, cruising the grand rivers of Europe becomes a very special experience.”

“We decided to invest in our own vessels and so guarantee consistently high standards of luxury and service for our discerning customers while offering more tour options … we’re not reliant on third party cruise operators,” said Mr McGeary.

Among their attributes, the ships boast more space than any other cruise ship in Europe, and in what is seen as a first for rivership cruising, complimentary bicycles are on board for independent explorations on shore.  These ships are stylish “holiday homes”. Stateroom and suites feature plush bedding, down pillows and duvet, flat-screen TV with local and satellite channels and internet access. 82% of the staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening to French balconies. As well as lounges and bars, the ship features a glassed in wellness area for fitness work-out, a relaxing massage, or a beauty treat.

APT World Discoveries cruises feature luxurious cabin accommodation and offer great value with all meals and many shore excursions included in the price. Complementary wine is served at dinner.

In its European river cruising program, APT operates exclusive private charters on four riverships, 11 itineraries on APT’s exclusive river cruises, plus five Russia and Scandinavian packages. Durations range from eight days to 29 days and all are all-inclusive packages

For example, the big-selling 15 days Magnificent Europe cruise begins in Amsterdam and concludes in Budapest. It is priced from $4845 per person twin share.

APT also operates cruises and tours in Canada/Alaska, China, Latin America, New Zealand and in Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland, Tasmania and Kangaroo Island.

In other infrastructure investment announced in September, APT is building a deluxe tented cabin wilderness lodge near Kings Canyon in a partnership with Kings Creek Station. It is located on a remote site on the station amongst Desert Oak trees and will open in April.

The development is valued at $500,000 and follows APT earlier announcement of a $450,000 upgrade of its Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge.

Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge will feature 10 deluxe tented cabins with full en-suite and 4 star appointment, a dining/lounge area plus an outside dining area around a feature campfire for dining under the stars on most nights.

Report by The Mole