APT Travel Group is set to expand its presence in the European river cruise market with the construction of two brand new vessels set to sail in 2025. Chief Executive Officer David Cox said the major investment will see a continuation of the “proud history of innovation from the company...
APT Travel Group is set to expand its presence in the European river cruise market with the construction of two brand new vessels set to sail in 2025.
Chief Executive Officer David Cox said the major investment will see a continuation of the “proud history of innovation from the company that pioneered European river cruising”.
“APT is the market leader in luxury river cruising in Australia, and this marks the next steps for the business after a highly successful partnership with AmaWaterways across 10 years,” Cox said.
“The time is now right for the APT Travel Group to lead the way once again.”
The newbuilds will be specifically designed to align with the APT luxury brand and the needs and wants of Australian travellers, Cox confirmed.
“We have been investing in the future, and with the strong support of the McGeary family, will continue to invest and grow our portfolio in river cruising now and for many years to come.”
The new APT Europe ships will complement the company’s other river cruise offerings, including the brand-new APT Mekong Serenity which will sail in South East Asia from next month, as well as the brand-new Estrela, which will debut on the Douro in Portugal next year, sailing on behalf of both APT and Travelmarvel (CW 04 Jul).
“No one knows the Australian traveller better than APT and no one is better placed to custom design quality luxury ships specifically for our market than Australia’s leading and most awarded touring and cruising company, APT,” Cox enthused.
The company also operates a three-ship fleet of Travelmarvel vessels in Europe, which have been receiving “incredibly high praise from travellers” in their second year of sailing.
The news of the European APT newbuilds comes alongside confirmation that AmaWaterways is establishing its own operation in Australia from next month, which will offer the cruise line’s full portfolio to local clientele (CW 17 Aug).
The McGeary family issued a statement saying “across our nearly 100 year history APT has continually evolved to stay ahead of the changing needs of the customer…after a highly successful partnership with Ama, APT is excited to design and build what will be the most innovative and luxurious ships on the river”.
“We can’t wait to reveal more to you in the coming months.”
