Last Friday marked a historic moment for APT as its newest flagship rivership, the APT Solara, officially embarked on her sold-out maiden voyage. Departing Amsterdam on 25 April on the ever-popular Magnificent Europe itinerary, the 15-day journey will carry guests through the heart of the continent, showcasing the very best of the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers.
The first passengers onboard — travellers from Australia and the United Kingdom — are now among the first in the world to experience APT's most innovative and luxuriously designed river ship to date.
"We've poured years of thought, passion and precision into bringing Solara to life," said APT Travel Group CEO, David Cox. "Watching our guests step aboard for the very first time – exploring the design, savouring the cuisine, soaking in the views – it's a proud moment for the entire APT team."
Conceived in close collaboration with Melbourne's Hecker Guthrie design studio and culinary specialists Fellow Hospitality, the APT Solara redefines river cruising with her open, airy interiors, premium finishes, and seven thoughtfully curated dining experiences.
For those behind the vision, seeing travellers connect with the ship in real time has been deeply rewarding.
"Designing Solara has been a career highlight – and seeing it now through the eyes of guests is something else entirely," said Paul Hecker of Hecker Guthrie. "From the light-filled Salon to the gentle layering of texture and tone in every suite, it's been a true labour of love. Hearing guests say they feel both inspired and completely at ease onboard – that's the goal."
From an elevated glass atrium to The Grüner Bar & Dining – a hydraulic venue that lifts to the Sun Deck for uninterrupted views – Solara invites travellers to discover Europe in a whole new way.
On the culinary front, Monique Lane, Director of Fellow Hospitality, described launch day as "incredibly special."
"We've designed each dining venue with a sense of story and place – from intimate, wine-led dinners in The Owner's Cellar, to relaxed regional fare at Annie's Table. Watching our team deliver those experiences to the very first guests, and hearing their reactions – it's deeply fulfilling," Lane said.
With capacity of just 154 and a dedicated crew of 60, APT Solara offers a personalised and enriching experience that reflects APT's legacy of quality, innovation and care. Her inaugural sailing sets the tone for a full season of European cruises in 2025, where more guests will have the opportunity to discover this floating masterpiece for themselves.
To mark the occasion, APT is excited to share a first look at the beautiful new ship with a sneak peek image gallery, linked below, with more images to be released soon as the season unfolds.
