Why should we cruise with APT?
We asked APT why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
APT is an Australian family-owned company whose essence began in Melbourne in the 1920s. More than 90 years on, APT offers life-enriching trips to every continent, and through the company’s vast industry experience, meticulous planning and unquestionable passion it's earned a place among the world’s most well-regarded travel companies.
From boutique river cruising to small-group 4WD adventures; traditional coach touring with a decadent twist; epic rail journeys to small-ship expeditions; classic ocean cruising to safaris of discovery by both read more land and air – there’s little APT are unwilling to consider in pursuit of creating the finest holiday experience for its valued guests.
Timeless luxury, exclusive experiences, life enriching moments and true personalisation. APT offers all-inclusive holidays so everything is taken care of. We invite you to join us; you won’t be disappointed.
APT snapshot
Total No. River Cruises
66
Departures
749
Avg. cruise length
17 days
Avg. price per day (by cabin type)
River View
$861
Balcony
$980
Suite
$1,140
No. of Ships
All-Inclusive Level
Our thoughts...
The low down on APT from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Initially focused on coach touring around Australia and New Zealand, APT have grown significantly over the past 15 years and now offer trips around the world. They’re particularly well known and highly regarded for their all-inclusive luxury European river cruises. In more recent years, APT have also expanded into small ship expedition cruising, partnering with some of the world’s leading expedition cruise lines to offer voyages through Asia, Europe, Canada and along Australia’s Kimberley coast.
More recently, APT launched their river cruises into the North American market, so it will be interesting to see whether Canadians and Americans embrace read more them as strongly as we have Downunder. Catering primarily to the mature and retired market, their trips aren’t cheap, but in APT’s case, you get what you pay for. Keep an eye out for their Fly Free offers and Earlybird Savings.
The team here at Global Journeys have travelled with APT multiple times by coach, river and small ship cruise, and we confidently recommend them as a quality, consistent and reliable operator - over 450 past APT client's reviews back that up too.
Who are we likely to meet on a APT river cruise?
Mostly Australians and New Zealanders, and from 2028 international guests, seeking a highly inclusive luxury river cruise.
Do APT river cruises suit solo-travellers?
Yes. Solo travellers can book APT river cruises in their own cabin, subject to an applicable single supplement.
How inclusive are APT's river cruises?
APT's all-inclusive river cruises include accommodation, all onboard dining, a wide range of beverages, sightseeing and excursions, Signature Experiences, Freedom of Choice activities, WiFi, airport transfers, port charges and gratuities.
Are there any extras to pay on top of the price shown?
Extra costs include premium or rare wines and spirits outside the included selection, spa and salon treatments and laundry.
Do APT include shore excursions?
Yes. Included sightseeing features APT Signature Experiences and Freedom of Choice Sightseeing .
What types of excusions are available?
Freedom of Choice excursions allow you to select from cultural, culinary, historical and active experiences in many destinations, alongside APT's exclusive Signature Experiences.
Are there any onboard activities or entertainment?
Depending on the ship, guests can enjoy lounges and bars, live entertainment, enrichment, fitness facilities, pools or wellness areas and social activities between excursions.
What are the cabins like on APT's river ships?
Accommodation varies across APT's river fleet. European ships such as APT Solara, Ostara and Alara offer a range of staterooms and suites, many with panoramic or french balconies, while ships in Asia, India, Portugal and Australia have their own cabin styles and configurations.
Recent APT reviews
Fantastic Trip 0
Karen and Bradley , NSW, Australia, Jul 2026
Global Journeys were great to deal with and I saved money booking my trip through them. The APT tour of South America and Amazon cruise was fantastic. We saw some amazing sights like Machu Picchu, a pod of pink dolphins chasing fish in the Amazon river and the jaw dropping Iguazu Falls. The hotels we stayed at were 5 stars and were located in terrific read more areas. The restaurant meals included were magnificent. It truly was a trip of a lifetime.
The River Cruise we looked forward to with much anticipation but did not deliver. 1
Joanne and Mark, VIC, Australia, Jul 2026
We were so excited about this cruise through beautiful scenery and we were looking forward to slowing down and relaxing on deck with a cocktail or two but this was not the case. We were notified the night before boarding that we would not be boarding the ship we had paid for, but instead another ship for the next two days. This happened four times due read more to low river levels and each time we had to be up early and cases packed ready to move on again. It was tiring and we never really got time to enjoy services on ship. We could not have washing done because we were on the move which was a problem for us because we were away for almost five weeks.
The four days we got to experience the Solara were enjoyable. The staff and cuisine on ship amazing and it would have been delightful to be able to sit up on deck and enjoy the scenery but this only happened twice because they closed off the top deck! Our cruise director Evelin did everything she could to make the cruise enjoyable under the circumstances we were experiencing. I personally would not advise cruising the Danube during the summer season , its not worth the money invested.
Eastern Block and River cruise 1
Judith and Geoffrey, QLD, Australia, Jun 2026
APT is definitely a luxury company - accommodation, meals, staff were all exceptional. Mostly Australians and New Zealanders on our 2 tours which made it easy for us to assimilate and find discussion topics with like-minded people. Our tour guides were also exceptional - very helpful, tolerant and accommodating. This was our first journey with APT and read more we would go with this travel company again.
Global Journeys provided timely updates and information and Mandy was also quick with responses to questions and provided the tactful “prod” we needed to get organized for our trip. It’s too easy to let things slide when you are flat strap with daily business but Mandy was diligent in reminding us of things that needed to be done. Loved the “check list” provided.
Name badges: I could have sworn I packed them but they weren’t in the bag when we opened them in Prague. Some travellers didn’t receive them before they left Australia. I would have preferred that APT gave us the name badges at the welcoming event in Prague. The staff on the cruise ship did prove us with one when we asked.
Amazing Travel Experience 0
Ian and Sandra, Australia, Jun 2026
We chose APT for premium, quality experiences. Our tour comprised the Eastern Block and Budapest to Amsterdam River Cruise. It was outstanding in so many ways. We had a modern coach for the Eastern Block land journey with a very professional driver and a Tour Director who ensured our experiences each day ran smoothly. The hotels in all places were read more excellent. They were mostly five stars, and all located in central positions for easy access to local restaurants, and places of interest. The Bristol Hotel in Warsaw was a standout. The included dining experiences were exceptional; each one focussing on both regional and traditional foods. Our guided tours throughout our journey were conducted by engaging and knowledgeable local guides.
The Budapest to Amsterdam River Cruise was exceptional. The best holiday we have had. Our tour director was helpful, organised, available and entertained us with her knowledge and humour. The Freedom of Choice and Signature experiences gave opportunities to enjoy unique aspects. Our Global Journeys consultants Hannah and Mandy were always professional and timely in their communications with us, providing an excellent and personal service. We highly recommend both APT and Global Journeys.
Vietnam and Cambodia by land, air and river cruise 0
Robyn and Michael, VIC, Australia, Apr 2026
Our tour with APT was very well organised and run, with an excellent local Tour Director and knowledgeable local guides. Hotel accommodation, included meals and the one week Mekong River Cruise were generally excellent. While it was not a cheap way to travel, we appreciated the all-inclusive nature of the tour (including not having to search for local read more restaurants most of the time, or worry about tipping). The itinerary nevertheless provided enough choices to limit group sizes for activities and cater to different tastes and abilities. The tour attracted a cohort who were mainly retired and well-travelled Australians and New Zealanders, generally active and curious. There were plenty of opportunities to get up close to local life, and to hear from knowledgeable local guides, while retreating to the bubble of a luxury hotel or cruise boat at night.
APT's most popular trips this month...
Why should we cruise with Avalon?
We asked Avalon why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
One of our favourite sayings that describes Avalon Waterways is ‘the possibilities are as wide open as the views’. From Europe to the Galapagos and Asia, you can cruise in relaxed luxury with Avalon Waterways, with choices as unique as you. Avalon offers you a range of choices from excursions, dining options, activities that help you tailor your experience.
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites read more blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Avalon snapshot
Total No. River Cruises
192
Departures
3,137
Avg. cruise length
12 days
Avg. price per day (by cabin type)
River View
$739
Balcony
$982
Suite
$1,114
No. of Ships
All-Inclusive Level
Our thoughts...
The low down on Avalon from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Avalon Waterways have been cruising the rivers of Europe and Asia since 2004 and its parent company was founded in Switzerland nearly a century ago. Avalon's modern luxury river ships, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, are a firm favourite amongst our past clients, and some of their itineraries are our biggest sellers. Avalon don't usually include Fly Offers with their cruise fare, so you'll need to book flights separately, but consequently their prices are cheaper than other luxury all-inclusive operators - and they offer some great Earlybird discounts too if you get in early. As part of the Globus Family group of Brands, you can also read more secure further discounts the next time you decide to travel by coach with either Globus or Cosmos.
Who are we likely to meet on a Avalon river cruise?
Travellers seeking relaxed river cruising with flexible dining, included sightseeing and a choice of classic, active and immersive experiences. Solo travellers are also well catered for.
Do Avalon river cruises suit solo-travellers?
Yes. Around 10% of Avalon guests travel solo, and Avalon regularly waives single supplements on selected European and Southeast Asia sailings.
How inclusive are Avalon's river cruises?
Fares include accommodation, all onboard meals, a substantial choice of shore excursions, WiFi, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, fitness activities and onboard entertainment.
Are there any extras to pay on top of the price shown?
Gratuities for the onboard crew are included in the cruise fare for Aussies and Kiwis, but not for North Americans. Optional excursions and activities, laundry, premium food and beverages outside the included offering and transfers will cost extra.
Do Avalon include shore excursions?
Yes. Avalon includes a generous choice of shore excursions in your cruise fare, with most itineraries offering a selection of Classic, Discovery and Active experiences at no extra charge. Some cruises include up to 28 ways to explore across the journey, while additional optional excursions are also available to purchase.
What types of excusions are available?
With Avalon Choice, you can explore in a way that suits you. Get moving with Active excursions, try something hands-on with Discovery experiences focused on food, culture and local life, or keep things classic with sightseeing that brings the destination’s history and landmarks to life. You can also head out on your own with complimentary bikes, e-bikes and other gear available on selected cruises.
Are there any onboard activities or entertainment?
Included onboard activities and facilities include live music, trivia, themed events, movies, fitness centres, yoga and stretching classes, an Adventure Host, lounges, a library, Sky Deck areas and whirlpools or plunge pools on selected ships.
What are the cabins like on Avalon's river ships?
All staterooms are exterior-facing. Around 80% are Panorama Suites, featuring wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling Open-Air Balconies and beds positioned to face the river views. Deluxe Staterooms and larger suites are also available, depending on the ship.
Recent Avalon reviews
It was fine 0
Kay, OR, United States, Sep 2026
The Rhine water level was too low for us to sail the entire time we were supposed to. The alternative lodgings, for the first two days were pretty bad. Their food was mediocre, BUT when we got on the boat it was wonderful!! Simona was a delight and the food was excellent! We could not sail the last scheduled night but those accommodations were very nice.
Things didn’t go according to plan 0
Tatyana, Australia, Aug 2026
Unfortunately I didn’t get the chance to do this trip due to severe drought and Danube water levels dropping so low no cruise ships could sail anywhere. I was afraid that Avalon would claim force majeure and not offer any compensation at all. To give them their due they offered refund for the cruise portion of the trip if I chose to do the trip and read more just use ships at three different locations as hotels and coach everywhere to maintain our on land itinerary. This wasn’t appealing at all given that I’ve just finished a coach tour with Trafalgar, so I’ve opted for a full refund instead. Tracey was great to deal with from initial booking to the very end handling cancellation and refund. I would be delighted to book another tour with both Avalon and Global Journeys in the future. Thank you Tracey!
River Cruise through South of France 0
Norman and Gloria, ON, Canada, Oct 2025
We greatly enjoyed our river cruise. The staff on Poetry II were top-notch. We thank those who were especially helpful, like Matheus in reception, Marya in the dining room, and Carmen in housekeeping. Some really went out of their way to help me when I got sick during the cruise, such as Adrian who was super-accommodating in adjusting local tour arrangements, read more and Margarida who diligently served me a special medicinal drink using a very effective Portuguese recipe. This was a very positive experience and we look forward to joining another Avalon river cruise in the not too distant future.
The river of gold 0
Susan, New Zealand, Oct 2025
Absolutely loved the cruise. Lovely new ship with great room and bathroom. Staff were fantastic - without fail friendly and helpful. Food was really good with plenty of variety, choice and local dishes. Really appreciated "compulsory happiness hour" with generous free drinks. This in contrast to another cruise line who I found over advertised and read more underdelivered. Ditto the included excursions - not just one ("not another dreary war memorial!") but a choice of three. Great dilemma to have. Good crowd - and never heard a complaint!
Avalon River Cruise 1
Bert and Annie, Australia, Sep 2025
The ship, the crew, the food, the Cruise Director were fantastic. Interaction with the Global team was also first class and happy to recommend you to our friends. xox
Avalon's most popular trips this month...
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