Your Ultimate Seniors Guide to APT Cruising
APT offers seamless, all-inclusive luxury travel designed for mature Australians—effortless organisation, exceptional quality, and unforgettable experiences without the stress.
Your Ultimate Seniors Guide to APT Cruising
G’day, fellow travellers, and welcome to our Seniors Travel Club guide to Australian Pacific Touring, or as we all know them, APT. For many of our members, the ‘golden years’ are about rewarding ourselves with travel that is not just comfortable, but truly effortless. After a lifetime of planning holidays for the whole family, the last thing you want to do is sweat the small stuff. This is where APT shines. They are a globally recognised leader in luxury travel 1, but at their heart, they remain a proudly Australian, family-owned company that started with a single bus route in Melbourne way back in 1927.2 Their entire philosophy is about removing every single point of friction, so you can focus on the joy of discovery.
This isn’t just marketing fluff; it’s a promise reflected in the glowing reviews from fellow Australian seniors. We’ve heard members return from APT trips “in awe of their organisation” 4, praising the “superb quality” 5 and the “premium” experience 4 where every detail is taken care of. They’ve built their world-class reputation on understanding exactly what discerning, mature travellers want: seamless service, a pace that suits you, like-minded company, and those ‘wow’ moments you’ll be talking about for years.
In this comprehensive guide, our club has done the homework for you. We’ll dive deep into everything you need to know, from the all-inclusive value and the brand-new ships to the critical (and often-overlooked) details on mobility and health. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s explore the world of APT.
Why Our Members Love APT
Beyond the glossy brochures, what’s the real ‘high-joy’ factor? We’ve found it’s all about the perfect pace, the like-minded people, and the genuine, all-inclusive luxury. When you’ve worked hard your whole life, it’s a profound pleasure to have someone else take care of everything.
Here are the top “high-joy” reasons our club members consistently rave about APT:
- Genuinely All-Inclusive Peace of Mind
This is the big one. The price is high, but it includes everything. We mean it. All your meals (even in the specialty restaurants), all your drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic, all day), all your shore excursions, all your tips and gratuities, and even your airport transfers and onboard Wi-Fi.3 It is the definition of “put your wallet away” travel, which our members find incredibly relaxing. - The Perfect Pace for You
APT understands its travellers. They specialise in a “gentle style of touring” 19, meaning you are never rushed off your feet. You’re not trying to keep up with a backpacker tour. Excursions are described by reviewers as being “organized with consideration for all physical levels”.29 This is a massive relief for members who want to see everything but value a dignified and comfortable pace. - You’re Travelling with “Your People”
The social scene is a huge, often-understated, drawcard. As one reviewer noted, the clientele is “my age”.26 Reviews and passenger demographics confirm the ships are filled almost exclusively with travellers in the 60-to-80s bracket.25 It’s a social, friendly, kid-free 26 environment, predominantly with like-minded, well-travelled Australians and New Zealanders. It’s easy to make new friends. - Adventure, Personalised (Without the Hassle)
The “Freedom of Choice” concept 19 is a brilliant solution for the discerning traveller. In most ports, instead of being herded onto one “standard” tour, you get to “cherry pick” 30 from a list of 3-4 pre-vetted, high-quality options—all included. One day, you might choose the cultural walking tour, your partner might pick the culinary tasting, and your friends might join the active e-bike ride.30 It gives you a wonderful sense of control and personalisation, without any of the stress of researching or booking a thing. - Next-Level Access and ‘Wow’ Moments
APT’s “Signature Experiences” 3 are the real “money-can’t-buy” moments that set them apart. These are exclusive events for APT guests only, like a private cocktail party and piano recital at Germany’s Namedy Castle 7 or a classical concert at Vienna’s magnificent City Palace.3 This is the kind of privileged access that our members truly value and remember long after the trip is over.
Did You Know?
APT is an Aussie company through and through, but it only got into the European river cruise game in 2001. The story goes that founder Geoff McGeary and his wife joined a friend’s Danube cruise in 2000. They enjoyed it so much that Geoff, in true Aussie-can-do style, decided to launch his own program specifically for Australians the very next year! 32
Booking & Planning Essentials
Best Times to Book
Our club’s motto is “plan ahead,” and with APT, this pays off handsomely.
- Book Early (10+ Months Out): This is not a cruise line for last-minute deals. The absolute best value comes from booking well in advance. APT offers a significant “Early Payment Discount” (e.g., $1,400 per couple) for those who book and pay in full 10 months before departure.23 This is the number one way to get the best price.
- Catch the “Wave Season” (January-February): In the travel industry, “Wave Season” is the period at the start of the year when cruise lines release their best new deals for the following year.33 This is the ideal time to lock in a “fly-cruise deal” for 2026 or 2027.
- Shoulder-Season Sweet Spots: If you are flexible, travelling to Europe in the shoulder seasons (like March or September to December) can be savvy. This is when special offers, particularly for solo travellers, are most common.24
Getting the Best Value
The value proposition of APT isn’t about being cheap; it’s about being all-inclusive. When you’re comparing prices, remember that the APT fare includes meals, drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and all shore excursions.3 A “cheaper” cruise line will often add $100-$150 per person, per day in these extras.
Travel Agent vs. Direct Booking
You can book directly with APT, which is fine for simple, straightforward bookings. However, for our members, we strongly recommend using a good, experienced travel agent.
The value of an agent isn’t just about finding deals 34; it’s about risk mitigation and support. We found a review from a senior traveller whose father-in-law was offloaded from an APT cruise in Germany with pneumonia.25 The travel agent was described as “invaluable” in coordinating with the hospital, the insurance company, and the family to get them home safely. This kind of emergency support 35 is priceless, especially when you are far from home. A good agent also has specialised knowledge to assist with special needs 36 and acts as your personal advocate if anything goes wrong.
Travel Tip: Choosing Your Cabin
On a European river ship, your cabin choice makes a big difference. Here’s our club’s quick guide:
- Twin Window Suite (Lowest Price): Located on the lowest deck (Deck 1), these cabins have high windows near the ceiling that do not open.16 They are perfectly comfortable but can feel a bit “submerged.”
- Balcony Suite (Best Value): This is the classic and most popular choice, located on Decks 2 and 3.37 It’s a “French Balcony,” which means a floor-to-ceiling electric window opens halfway down, turning your entire cabin into a breezy, open-air veranda. It’s a brilliant design.
- Owner’s Suite (The Splurge): These are the largest suites on Deck 3, featuring a full step-out veranda and extra perks like butler service and complimentary laundry.16 A wonderful indulgence!
Pre & Post Cruise Options
APT offers a full suite of options, including hotel packages, fly-cruise deals, and extended land tours.39
Our Advice: For any long-haul international cruise (like Europe), always take the pre-cruise hotel package. Arriving a day or two early is essential for beating jet lag and starting your expensive cruise feeling refreshed. APT’s packages are seamless; their representative meets you at the airport, transfers you to your (excellent) hotel, and the next day transfers you and your luggage directly to the ship.3 It’s a completely stress-free start. Better yet, if you’re a Platinum or Diamond loyalty member, these pre-night stays are often included for free.3
Dining Deep Dive
Main Dining Options
- Main Restaurant: The elegant main dining room operates with a single, open seating time.22 This is wonderfully flexible. You can arrive when you like (within the dinner window) and choose to sit as a couple or join a larger table of new friends.
- Buffet: A more casual buffet is available for a quick brekky or lunch. In line with modern health protocols, these are often “served buffets” rather than self-service.67
- Speciality Restaurants: On the new Solara and Ostara ships, you are spoiled for choice. There are multiple alternative venues, such as the Grüner Bar & Dining (a world-first venue that hydraulically lifts up to the Sun Deck) 68, the French Bistro Saison, the casual Annie’s Table 56, and the intimate Chef’s Table Restaurant.22
- Costs: $0. All dining, in all venues, is included in your cruise fare.3
Dietary & Health Accommodations
- The Process: This is a high-touch, personalised service, but it requires advance notice. You must notify APT or your travel agent of any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, vegetarian, gluten-free) at the time of your booking.22
- The Experience: They take this responsibility very seriously. We found an exceptional review from a passenger with both gluten-free and dairy-free needs, who said they “feasted!”.70 The chefs “altered the food and made it special… daily, they had gluten and dairy free deserts that were yummy and good looking”.70 This shows a high level of personal care and culinary skill, not just a “fruit plate” substitution.
- Room Service: Room service is available and often complimentary, especially during meal times.56
- Tea/Coffee: Tea and coffee-making facilities are available in your cabin 37, and a 24/7 self-service station is available in the lounge for a cuppa or espresso any time you like.
Senior Saver: Drink Packages
Here’s the best tip: you don’t need to worry about a drink package. On APT, it’s all included, all day.3 From your morning specialty coffee to a lunchtime beer, a pre-dinner G&T, and the quality local wines poured generously with your meal—it’s all part of the price. There is no upselling, no confusing “premium” package, and no bill-shock at the end.
Technology & Communication
- Wi-Fi Packages & Speeds: Good news and bad news. The good news: Wi-Fi is included free of charge on most river ships.3 The bad news: you must set your expectations! “River-Fi” is not like your NBN at home.71 It’s a satellite/mobile connection that can be slow and may drop out, especially when sailing through gorges or locks. It’s perfectly fine for sending iMessages and emails, but don’t expect to stream movies.
- The “APT Concierge” App: APT has a smartphone app called “APT Concierge”.72 We recommend you download this before you leave Australia.
- Its best features for seniors are:
- Access to your full tour itinerary and maps even when you’re offline.72 This is fantastic for when you’re in port and don’t want to use expensive mobile roaming.
- Receiving messages from your Tour Director (e.g., “The coach will depart 10 minutes late”).72
- A handy currency converter and spending tracker.72
- Its best features for seniors are:
- Tech Help Desks: There’s no “Genius Bar.” However, with such a high crew-to-guest ratio 6 and a dedicated Cruise Director 3, there is always a friendly, patient staff member happy to help you connect to the Wi-Fi or show you how the app works.
Health, Medical & Safety
This is the most important section in our guide. Please read it carefully.
- Medical Facility Standards (The Critical Difference):
- European/Asian River Cruises: These ships DO NOT have a doctor or onboard hospital.46 The ships are always close to land, so the standard emergency procedure is to dock and use local, land-based medical facilities.46
- Kimberley/Antarctica Expedition Cruises: These ships (like the Seabourn Pursuit) DO have an onboard medical centre staffed by a qualified doctor and nurse.48 This is a legal requirement for operating in such remote areas.
- Prescription Medication: You must bring an ample supply of all prescription medications for your entire trip, along with a doctor’s letter. Do not assume you can get a script filled in a foreign country.
- Mobility Equipment Policy (The Hard Truth):
- When you book, you will be required to complete a “Health, Fitness & Mobility Questionnaire”.53 You must be honest on this form for your own safety.
- The official policy states: “Motorized scooters cannot be accommodated” on river cruises.50
- The policy also states: “APT is unable to provide individual assistance…for walking, dining, disembarking”.53
- If you use a walker or collapsible wheelchair, you must travel with an able-bodied companion who can physically assist you with stairs, steep gangways 52, and walking on cobblestones.19
- Coaches used for excursions cannot carry wheelchairs or walkers.53
- This combination of policies and physical barriers is why a river cruise is, unfortunately, not a suitable holiday for a traveller with significant mobility restrictions.
- Emergency Evacuation & Insurance:
- On a river cruise, an evacuation is simple: an ambulance to a local hospital.
- On a Kimberley expedition cruise, an evacuation is by helicopter.49 The cost for this is enormous and “will almost certainly be passed onto the patient”.49
- Our un-skippable advice: You must have top-tier, comprehensive travel insurance that explicitly covers medical evacuation from a cruise ship in remote waters.
- Seasickness: Not an issue on the rivers. For the Kimberley, the Seabourn Pursuit is a large, modern, and stable ship, but you will be in coastal waters, so if you are prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to pack your preferred remedy.
- Health Protocols: APT has a dedicated COVID-19 health and safety team.67 You can expect enhanced hospital-grade cleaning, served buffets, and protocols that follow the latest Australian government and World Health Organisation advice.67
Entertainment & Enrichment
- Typical Daily Programs: The day is all about the destination. The morning and afternoon are dedicated to your (included) shore excursions. Onboard enrichment consists of a port talk 58 or lecture from your Cruise Director or an expert guide 59 to prepare you for the next day’s adventure.
- Guest Speaker Quality:
- River Cruises: Led by your excellent, all-knowing Cruise Director and the specialist local guides who come aboard in each new town.3
- Expedition Cruises (Kimberley): This is next-level. The Seabourn Pursuit has a 23-person expert Expedition Team.60 These are scientists, historians, and naturalists who give university-level lectures on the region’s geology, wildlife, and Indigenous history.59
- Library & Quiet Spaces: Yes, the ships have a dedicated library and numerous quiet lounges and nooks.62 With only 150 guests 16, it’s always easy to find a peaceful corner to read a book and watch the world glide by.
- Activities: Expect classic, social cruise activities. You’ll find daily trivia, bridge games, dance classes, and sometimes a cooking class on the schedule.62
- Production Shows: There are no “Broadway-style” production shows.62 Evening entertainment is more refined and intimate: a talented pianist in the lounge 64, a local cultural performance 63, or perhaps a “movie under the stars” on the sun deck.65
The Social Scene
- Solo Traveller Meet-ups: APT is outstanding for solo travellers, which is why we rate it 5/5. They have a dedicated “Solo Traveller Club” you can join by email to get special offers.24 Onboard, the small ship size (around 150 guests) makes it “easy to make friends”.26 Reviewers confirm 25 there are many singles, and the open-seating dining means you never have to eat alone (unless you want to!).
- Special Interest Groups: You’ll find natural “groups” form around activities like trivia, bridge, and the e-bike excursions.62
- Dress Codes Explained: It’s relaxed and comfortable.
- Daytime: “Casual and comfortable”.19 Think neat shorts, trousers, polo shirts, and good walking shoes.76
- Evening (Smart Casual): This is the standard for dinner.19 It is not formal. For blokes: a collared shirt (a polo or button-down) and chinos or nice trousers. A jacket is not required.77 For ladies: a nice blouse and slacks, a skirt, or a casual dress.78 The only firm rule: no shorts or swimwear in the restaurant.19
- Captain’s Night: There is usually one “Captain’s Welcome” and one “Farewell Dinner” per cruise.20 This is a chance to “frock up” a bit more. For men, a jacket is nice (a tie is optional), and for ladies, a cocktail dress or smart pantsuit is perfect. It’s celebratory, not stuffy.
- Making Friends Tips: With only ~150 people, you’ll know half the ship by day two. The best ways to meet people are to join a trivia team, sit at a mixed table for dinner, and say ‘yes’ to one of the “Freedom of Choice” active tours.
You Should Know: Onboard Etiquette
The unwritten social rule on APT is ‘friendly and engaged.’ The crew are not just anonymous staff; they are your hosts, and many guests build a real rapport with them. This is a refined, social, Australian environment. A ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and a friendly chat with your dining staff go a long way.
Costs & Hidden Extras
This is the shortest and best section of the guide. Because APT is truly all-inclusive, there are almost no hidden costs.
- What’s Truly Included (The “Big 6”):
- All Accommodation
- All Meals (including all specialty restaurants) 3
- All Drinks (including quality wine, beer, and spirits, all day) 3
- All Shore Excursions (both “Freedom of Choice” and “Signature Experiences”) 3
- All Gratuities & Tips (onboard and ashore) 3
- Airport Transfers and onboard Wi-Fi 3
- What’s Extra (The ‘You’ List):
This list is refreshingly short. You will only pay extra for:- Spa treatments, massages, or haircuts.61
- Laundry services 61 (unless you are in an Owner’s Suite, where it’s often free 16).
- “Enrich Your Experience” optional tours. These are rare, high-cost “add-ons.” For example, on the Kimberley cruise, the Zodiac tours are included, but a scenic helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls would be an optional extra you can purchase.66
- Currency & Payment: Any onboard extras (like a spa treatment) are billed to your cabin in Euros (while in Europe).22 You settle your account with a credit card at the end of the cruise.
- Tipping Guidelines: This is the best part: there are none. Gratuities are genuinely included in your fare.3 You do not need to tip, and you will never be made to feel like you’re expected to.
Loyalty Programs
- Program: The “APT Club”
You are automatically enrolled as a Silver member after your first trip.43 The tiers are based on the number of trips you take: Gold (2-3 trips), Platinum (4-5 trips), and Diamond (6+ trips).3 - Senior-Relevant Perks by Level:
APT’s loyalty perks are brilliant because they aren’t “onboard credits” (which are almost useless on an all-inclusive cruise). They are tangible, high-value, hassle-removal perks.- Gold (2-3 trips): The star benefit kicks in here: Private home-to-airport return transfers (up to a 40km radius).3 This is an amazing, stress-reducing perk that starts your holiday from your front door.
- Platinum (4-5 trips): The home transfer is extended to a 60km radius 3, plus you receive a complimentary one-night pre- or post-tour hotel stay.3 This is perfect for acclimatising before a long cruise.
- Diamond (6+ trips): You get two complimentary hotel nights 3, the 60km transfer, and other exclusive gifts.
- Best Way to Maximise Benefits: The benefits are automatic and stack. The best way to maximise them is to simply keep travelling!
Sample Itineraries for Our Club
European River Classic: Magnificent Europe
- Duration: 15 Days 10
- Route: Budapest to Amsterdam (or reverse). This is the “grand slam” of European river cruising, sailing the Danube, Main, and Rhine rivers.10
- Key Ports: Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), Melk (Austria), Nuremberg (Germany), Bamberg (Germany), Rüdesheim (Germany), Cologne (Germany), Amsterdam (Netherlands).10
- Price: $$$$$ (Starts from approx. $AUD8,995 per person, often including flights if booked early).14
- Why it Suits Our Members: This is the quintessential “gentle” 19 European tour. It’s for members who want to be deeply immersed in history and culture, see the fairytale castles of the Rhine Gorge, and enjoy those exclusive “Signature Experiences” like the private concert in Vienna.31 It is the perfect, stress-free European discovery, provided you are independently mobile.
Australian Expedition: Kimberley Coastal Expedition
- Duration: 10 Days 66
- Route: Broome to Darwin (or reverse).15
- Key Ports/Highlights: This cruise is about nature, not towns. Highlights are all exploration-based: Zodiac trips to the thundering Horizontal Falls, witnessing the “vanishing” Montgomery Reef, sailing up the King George River to the twin King George Falls, and viewing ancient Indigenous rock art.15
- Price: $$$$$ (Starts from approx. $AUD16,895 per person, cruise only).15
- Why it Suits Our Members: This is the ultimate “bucket list” adventure for the active, agile senior. You travel on an ultra-luxury expedition ship (the Seabourn Pursuit) 66 with an onboard doctor.48 However, all exploration is done by inflatable Zodiac boats.13 You must be fit and agile enough to climb safely in and out of these boats. This is not a “gentle” tour, but it’s the most luxurious and comfortable way to see Australia’s last true frontier.
Final Verdict
- Best Suited For:
- Discerning seniors (60-80s) who value true, all-inclusive, 5-star luxury and are willing to pay the premium price for it.3
- Solo travellers. We can’t say this enough. APT is arguably the best-in-class for solos, thanks to its friendly, social, small-ship atmosphere and dedicated “Solo Traveller Club”.24
- Members who want a “hassle-free” guarantee, where everything from flights to tips to excursions is handled for them.3
- Active and mobile travellers who want to see the Kimberley or Antarctica without “roughing it.”
- May Not Suit:
- Critically: travellers who require a motorised scooter or wheelchair, or who cannot walk unassisted and manage stairs independently. The official policies 50 and the physical realities of river cruising (no lifts to sun decks 55, “rafting” in ports 52, steep gangways, and no onboard doctor 46) make this an unsuitable and potentially unsafe holiday for those with mobility challenges.
- Budget-conscious travellers. This is a premium, top-dollar product.
- Seniors who want “party ship” entertainment. The vibe is refined, quiet, and social, with evenings winding down after 10 p.m..63
- Overall Value Rating & Recommendation:
- Rating: 5/5 (for the right person)
- Recommendation: For the traveller who is mobile and wants the “gold standard” of all-inclusive, hassle-free travel, APT is one of the best investments you can make. The company’s 98% guest satisfaction rating 83 and the glowing reviews from fellow Aussie seniors 4 are testament to this. It’s a premium product that genuinely delivers on its promise.
Life’s too short for bad holidays. If you’re looking for a journey where every single detail is truly “Perfected to a T” 2, then APT is waiting for you.
Check out upcoming APT deals
Snapshot & Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fleet Size |
~17+ river, small, and expedition ships (both owned and chartered) 6 |
| Newest Ships |
APT Solara (2025), APT Ostara (2025), MS Estrela (2024, Douro), PS Australian Star (2025, Murray) 2 |
| Typical Cruise Lengths |
7 to 15 days for river cruises.9 Combined land/cruise tours can be 26 days or more.11 |
| Main Sailing Regions |
Europe: Rhine, Main, Danube, Douro.3 Asia: Mekong, Yangtze.3 Australia: The Kimberley, Murray River.2 Other: Antarctica, Mediterranean.6 |
| Price Range |
$$$$$ (Luxury/Premium. e.g., 15-day Europe from $AUD8,995pp 14; 10-day Kimberley from $AUD16,895pp 15). |
| Passenger Capacity |
Intimate. River ships ~114–154 guests.6 Expedition ships ~264 guests (e.g., Seabourn Pursuit).17 |
| Crew-to-Passenger Ratio |
Excellent. Solara/Ostara ~1:2.5 (154 guests / 60 crew).6 Yangzi Explorer ~1:1 (148 guests / 141 crew).6 |
| Dress Code |
Casual and comfortable by day; Smart-casual at night.19 |
| Gratuities |
Included. You are not expected to tip.3 |
| Onboard Currency |
Euro ($EUR) for European river cruises.22 |
| Senior Discounts Available? |
No specific senior-aged discounts. All deals are loyalty-based 3 or via early-booking promotions.23 |
| Wheelchair Accessibility |
1/5 (River) | 3/5 (Expedition). This is a critical point. APT’s river cruises are NOT suitable for guests who cannot walk unassisted. See Sections 5 & 10 for vital details. |
| Solo Traveller Friendliness |
5/5. (Exceptional. One of the best options for solo travellers, with a dedicated club and social atmosphere 24). |
| Adults-Only Options? |
Not officially, but the clientele is overwhelmingly 60+, and there are rarely, if ever, any children.25 |
| Australian Departure Ports |
Broome and Darwin (for Kimberley expeditions).15 Various ports for Murray River cruising. |
Onboard Experience
The onboard vibe is one of relaxed, 5-star sophistication. It’s social, but quiet; luxurious, but not stuffy.
Dining & Cuisine: This is a consistent highlight. The new ships like Solara and Ostara have an incredible six to seven dining venues 7, which is almost unheard of for a ship with only 154 guests. This means you’re never bored and can try something new every night. It’s all-inclusive, and fellow Aussie reviewers praise the “superb quality” 5 and “excellent” food and meals.57
Entertainment & Enrichment: This is a destination-focused cruise. “Enrichment” comes in the form of insightful lectures from your Cruise Director about the next day’s port 58 or presentations from expert local guides.59 On the expedition cruises, this is even more in-depth, with a full 23-person expedition team of scientists and naturalists.60
Wellness & Relaxation: The new ships feature small, heated pools on the Sun Deck 7 (remember: stair-access only), a fitness centre for a morning walk on the treadmill, and a spa.7 Spa treatments (like a massage) are one of the few things that cost extra.61
Evening Programs: Evenings are low-key and social. Don’t expect “razzmatazz”.63 A resident pianist 64 typically plays in the main lounge before and after dinner. The ship will often bring local performers onboard for an evening—it might be a German folk-dancing troupe, a local classical trio, or an ‘oom pah pah’ musician.57 APT is also introducing new concepts like “movies under the stars” and “silent discos” on some cruises.65
Sea Days vs. Port Days: On a river cruise, you are in port almost every day. “Sea days” are replaced by “river days,” which are relaxing afternoons of scenic cruising past castles, gorges, and vineyards. The expedition cruises (like the Kimberley) will have more “sea days” dueto the longer distances between ports.66
Mobility Considerations: The main consideration is stamina. Port days involve extensive walking, often on uneven cobblestones.19
Shore Excursions & Ports
This is a key area where APT’s value shines. All your shore excursions are included in your fare.3
Excursion Style & Pricing: The price is $0. Every day, in every port, you will have included tour options.3
“Freedom of Choice” Classifications: This is APT’s standard, included offering. On most port days, you’ll be offered a “menu” of 3-4 different tours, all included.19 You simply “cherry pick” 19 the one that suits your interests and energy level for that day. They are generally classified by activity:
- Gentle/Cultural: A walking tour of the old town, a visit to a cathedral, or a museum visit. These are typically “gentle touring”.19
- Moderate/Active: A guided e-bike tour along the river 30, or a more energetic hike up to a castle.
- Culinary: A visit to a local market, a schnapps tasting, or a winery tour.
“Signature Experiences”: These are the “wow” moments for the whole ship, also included.3 They are exclusive, high-value events like a private concert at Vienna’s City Palace 3 or a cocktail party at Namedy Castle.7
Port Accessibility Challenges to Know: This is the “buyer beware” section for river cruising, and it’s why our mobility rating is so low.
- Cobblestones: Many of Europe’s most beautiful, historic old towns are paved entirely with cobblestones, which can be treacherous for walkers and canes.19
- “Rafting”: In busy ports, ships often have to “raft” or “double-park” next to each other.52 This means to get to shore, you may have to walk through another ship’s lobby and (often) up and down a set of stairs to cross their sun deck. This is unpredictable and can be a major barrier for anyone with mobility issues.
- Gangways: The ramps from the ship to the shore can be very steep if the river level is low or the port is on a high embankment.52
Excursion Booking: You typically make your “Freedom of Choice” selections online before you travel or on the first day of your cruise.
Travel Tip: Third-Party Tours
On many big ocean cruises, we advise members to book independent, third-party tours to get a better small-group experience. On APT, we advise the opposite. Because APT’s included tours 3 are already the premium, small-group, high-quality experiences that third-party operators sell, there’s absolutely no need to book your own. You’re already getting the best.
Ships & Accommodation
APT’s small, luxury ships offer elegant river, coastal, and expedition cruising, with stylish suites and curated comfort—though mobility access varies significantly by ship.
Fleet Overview
Understanding APT’s fleet is key, as the ship you’re on massively changes the onboard experience, especially regarding health and mobility. The fleet is generally split into three categories:
European River Ships: These are APT’s newest, custom-built luxury vessels. The stars of the fleet are the brand-new APT Solara and APT Ostara (launched in 2025), which carry just 154 guests and sail the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers.7
Asia River Ships: These are also bespoke luxury ships, purpose-built for their specific waterways, such as the Mekong Serenity in Vietnam/Cambodia and the Yangzi Explorer in China.6
Expedition & Small Ships: These are typically chartered, ultra-luxury vessels from partners. This includes the brand-new Seabourn Pursuit (carrying 264 guests) for the Kimberley expedition cruises 15 and the smaller Coral Discoverer for other Australian coastal routes.13
Cabin Categories
On the flagship European river ships, the layout is simple and luxurious:
Twin Window Suite: Found on the lowest cabin deck (Deck 1), these feature high windows that do not open.16
Balcony Suite (French Balcony): The most common category on the middle and upper decks (Decks 2 and 3). These have the floor-to-ceiling electric window that slides down to create an open-air feel.37
Owner’s Suite: Located on the top cabin deck (Deck 3), these are the largest, offering a full, private step-out veranda, a sitting area, and extra butler services.37
Solo Cabins: A few of APT’s European ships have a limited number of dedicated solo-occupancy suites.24 These are a fantastic option, but they are rare and sell out very quickly. You must book early to secure one.
Accessibility Cabins: We must be very clear with our members on this point. European river ships are not built to the same accessibility standards as large, modern ocean liners. They generally do not have fully accessible cabins with roll-in showers or wide-clearance doorways.37 This is a critical factor in our low accessibility rating.
Ship Facilities
This is arguably the most important section in our guide for ensuring you book the right holiday.
Medical Centres: A CRUCIAL DISTINCTION
- European & Asian River Cruises: There is NO doctor or nurse onboard.46 This is standard for all river cruise lines, as the ship is never more than a few hours from a high-quality, land-based hospital.46 The crew is trained in first aid.
- Kimberley & Antarctica Expedition Cruises: YES, there IS a medical facility staffed with a doctor and a nurse.48 Because these ships operate in extremely remote wilderness areas, they are required to have these facilities.49
Mobility Aid Storage & Policy
This is the hard truth, and it’s vital you know it before you book.
- Motorised Scooters: Not allowed. APT’s policy, in line with most river cruise lines, states that motorised scooters cannot be accommodated on their European river cruises.50
- Collapsible Wheelchairs & Walkers: These are permitted, but with a major catch: you must be able to get on and off the ship and coaches without crew assistance. APT’s terms state they are “unable to provide individual assistance”.53 You must travel with an able-bodied companion who can lift and manage your walker or wheelchair, as crew are not permitted to do so.54 Furthermore, the coaches used for shore excursions often cannot carry wheelchairs or walkers due to space limitations.53
Elevator Coverage & Deck Accessibility
- On the new APT Solara and APT Ostara ships, a passenger lift (elevator) connects all cabin decks (Decks 1, 2, and 3).55
- Crucial Insight: This elevator DOES NOT go to the top Sun Deck (Deck 4).50 This beautiful, open-air deck—which has the heated pool, loungers, and 360-degree scenic views 16—is accessible only by stairs. This can be a major disappointment and a deal-breaker for guests with significant mobility issues who cannot manage a flight of stairs.