The APT Group, through its APT and Travelmarvel brands, celebrated the launch of its two exciting new Myanmar vessels recently as they each sailed on maiden voyages from Yangon to Mandalay.
The expansion into Myanmar is a natural next step for both APT and Travelmarvel, with each having built an enviable reputation as trusted experts in river cruising and land touring across Asia.
Luxury brand APT welcomed the outstanding new RV Samatha (named to reflect the Buddhist practice of calming the mind to achieve peace and tranquility), holding a special cultural ceremony to mark the occasion.
Guests who set sail on the inaugural voyage were impressed with the ship’s 30 luxurious and well appointed suites, which range from 27 sqm to 48.7 sqm. All suites have been specifically positioned on the outside of the ship to ensure all guests enjoy either a panoramic or twin balcony.
Enjoying the all inclusive onboard lifestyle synonymous with an APT luxury river cruise, guests indulged in gourmet meals and complimentary drinks, and took full advantage of the ship’s outstanding facilities. These include a sundeck with swimming pool; day spa; an air conditioned main lounge and bar; observation deck and two restaurants – a main restaurant and a private fine dining restaurant.
APT Asia Ambassador Luke Nguyen has been personally involved in designing the food onboard the new ship, travelling to Yangon to oversee the training of the chefs prior to the RV Samatha’s maiden voyage.
Guests travelling on the APT ship enjoy exclusive dinners every evening that have been personally designed by Luke. Also exclusive for APT guests is the chance to sample Luke’s specially designed degustation menu in the ship’s private dining room, an intimate eight-seat venue.
Off the ship they explored the region on their included sightseeing, highlights of which ranged from exploring the village of Inwa by horse drawn cart; to spending a day of discovery at the Bagan Archaeological Zone; wandering through the Bogyoke Aung San Market, a major bazaar in Yangon famous for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets; and visiting the 99-metre high Shwedagon Pagoda.
For Travelmarvel, the new RV Princess Panhwar (named after the famous queen of Vishnu) offers an exceptional standard of premium river cruising.
Marking the occasion of her maiden voyage with local entertainers and a special evening ceremony, guests who travelled on the first sailing were delighted to be included in the celebrations.
The custom built vessel offers a choice of 36 staterooms and suites ranging in size from 26 sqm to 42.5 sqm and either a French or an outside balcony.
Public areas aboard the sophisticated new vessel include an air-conditioned lounge area on the sun deck, a main restaurant, and a spa and massage facility. Inclusions on this fully escorted cruise range from all meals and sightseeing to complimentary wine, local beer and spirits and soft drinks served at lunch and dinner.
Attending the celebrations on behalf of the APT Group was director Robert McGeary. Congratulating staff in Asia and Australia on the success of the two new ships he said, “Launching one new river ship in any destination, let alone one that’s emerging, is certainly something to celebrate. But to introduce two at the same time is testament to the experience and dedication off our staff.
“These two vessels represent a significant investment by the APT Group. In particular they illustrate the long standing commitment of the APT Group to river cruising in Asia,” he added.
The riverships were both built in Yangon by APT and Travelmarvel.
Availability for 2016 departures is now limited with both operators almost sold out.
Agents with guests wanting to travel this year can book on a handful of dates between September to December for APT; and for December departures with Travelmarvel.
APT and Travelmarvel are now taking bookings for 2017 departures.
For further information call 1300 196 420, visit www.aptouring.com.au or www.travelmarvel.com.au.
SOURCE: APT and Travelmarvel