APT christens new Euro river ship

APT christened its new luxury river ship, APT Solara, in Rotterdam yesterday (April 21, 2025).

And that both marks a major milestone in the Australian company’s 98-year history and starts a new chapter in European river cruising.

APT Travel Group CEO David Cox and co-owners Robert McGeary and Lou Tandy were there for the ceremony, with Lou becoming the ship’s Godmother.

“It’s a true honour to serve as Godmother for a ship that means so much to our team, our guests and my family,” she says.

“The Solara celebrates where we’ve come from and marks the exciting future ahead. It’s a tribute to our legacy, but more importantly, it’s a bold step forward in how we design, deliver and share extraordinary travel experiences. I couldn’t be prouder to christen her today.”

“Solara is the result of a true collaboration between world-class Australian creatives and the APT team,” said Robert McGeary.

“As a family-owned Australian company, we’ve designed this ship with the Antipodean traveller in mind as it brings together the comforts our guests value most, from elegant lounges and genuinely quality coffee to regionally sourced produce — all in a ship that feels tailored, not templated. That’s what sets APT apart.”

David Cox adds: “The Solara is everything APT stands for — timeless travel, trusted service and ongoing innovation. She’s more than just a new ship; she sets a new benchmark for how we deliver exceptional experiences on Europe’s rivers.”

A celebration dinner on board exemplified APT’s commitment to local produce — and it was served in the world’s first hydraulically lifted venue. The Gruner Bar and Dining lifts hydraulically to give 360-degree views from the Sun Deck.

The ship can carry up to 154 guests, and has balcony and owner’s suites.

Its maiden voyage is APT’s Magnificent Europe itinerary, from April 25, 2025, along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

aptouring.com.au