History was made in the riverside town of Würzburg last week as it played host to its first ever cruise ship christening, celebrating the launch of APT’s latest state-of-the-art vessel, the MS AmaVenita.
Guests were welcomed by the town’s Mayor, Christian Schuchardt, who said Wurzburg was a popular destination for river cruise ships.
Also in attendance, welcoming APT’s guests from Australia, New Zealand and the UK to the special Christening ceremony and thanking attendees for their continued support of APT’s river cruises, was company founder Geoff McGeary and his son, APT Group Director Robert McGeary.
The latter’s wife, Rebekah McGeary, is the ship’s godmother and amid a chorus of cheers and applause, she christened the MS AmaVenita in the time-honoured tradition, breaking a bottle of Champagne against the ship’s hull.
The tradition of christening a ship originated more than 4,000 years ago. A respected and well-known woman is selected to serve as a new ship’s honorary ’godmother’, entrusted with blessing the vessel to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew.
Following the christening guests were entertained by traditional dancers, folk music and a performance by esteemed soprano Heidelinde Schmid from the Bavarian State Opera.
The 164-passenger Concerto vessel MS AmaVenita offers river cruises along the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers. Its spacious and luxurious suites, most of which boast APT’s exclusive Twin Balconies, are equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment on demand systems, which afford guests complimentary access to Internet, the latest Hollywood movies, a music library and more.
Guests travelling on APT’s Royal Collection cruises aboard the MS AmaVenita will also enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations, choosing from up to seven dining experiences, including the Chef’s Table Restaurant; unlimited fine wine, spirits and beer served at their discretion; a heated pool with swim-up bar; massage and beauty salon and fitness studio and in select suites, complimentary butler and laundry services. The MS AmaVenita also carries a fleet of bicycles on board.
APT’s ‘Royal Collection’ Magnificent Europe river cruises aboard the MS AmaVenita will sail between Amsterdam and Budapest and offer a distinct point of difference in the Australian market, featuring the three royal jewels in APT’s sightseeing crown: a journey aboard the luxurious Majestic Imperator train, a replica of the Imperial Royal train of the Hapsburgs; a private visit to Namedy Castle, including a cocktail reception and lavish royal banquet; and a private musical soiree at Vienna’s newly refurbished City Palace, featuring members of the Mozart Boys’ Choir. Lead in price for this cruise in 2016 is from $7,395* per person, twin share.
For further information about APT’s European River Cruises call 1300 196 420, visit aptouring.com.au or see your local travel agent.
SOURCE APT