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
752
Avg. cruise length
17 days
Avg. price per day (by cabin type)
River View
$856
Balcony
$980
Suite
$1,139
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 Uniworld?
We asked Uniworld why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
Once you step onboard the world’s finest and most awarded river cruise line for the first time, we are quite sure the refined luxury onboard our fleet will sweep you off your feet.
We draw our inspiration for the design philosophy of every one of the 17 ships in our fleet directly from the destination in which they sail. The craftsmanship, the attention to detail, the art onboard, the handcrafted furniture and intricacy of the fabrics are lovingly assembled to be a masterpiece in and of itself. Stepping onboard is to step into a world of beautiful read more colours and one-of-a-kind details that truly bring your destination to life.
Crafting experiences you can’t find anywhere else, means continuing to elevate Uniworld to new heights year after year. From the addition of four new Super Ships in Egypt, Vietnam, Portugal and Italy, to the award winning service that comes from the heart, we’re putting even more emphasis on what’s onboard to enhancing several itineraries to accommodate guest’s diverse tastes for the future. We truly look forward to welcoming our Australian guests onboard.
Uniworld snapshot
Total No. River Cruises
81
Departures
1,007
Avg. cruise length
11 days
Avg. price per day (by cabin type)
River View
$962
Balcony
$1,242
Suite
$1,996
No. of Ships
All-Inclusive Level
Our thoughts...
The low down on Uniworld from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
If you are looking for 5-star luxury with 6-star service then Uniworld river cruises should be at the top of your wishlist. Uniworld's ships are one-of-a-kind, exquisitely appointed, boutique floating hotels - all with their own unique style. Uniworld ships are slightly smaller than average with about 130 guests, and are constantly being refurbished in their distinctive style. Half of the team at Global Journeys have embarked on a voyage with Uniworld and some us a few times! Uniworld pricing is now dynamic so can vary day by day, and while the cruises aren't the cheapest, their all-inclusive so you wont need to dip into your wallet once your read more cruise begins. Further savings are available if you're a past passenger on have travelled with any of Uniworld's sister brands including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold, AAT Kings and Costsaver.
Who are we likely to meet on a Uniworld river cruise?
Culturally curious travellers seeking a luxurious, highly inclusive river cruise with immersive destination experiences, fine dining and personalised service.
Do Uniworld river cruises suit solo-travellers?
Yes. Solo travellers are welcome, and Uniworld regularly waives single supplements on selected departures and stateroom categories.
How inclusive are Uniworld's river cruises?
Highly inclusive, Uniworld's fares include luxury accommodation, all onboard meals, unlimited premium wines, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages, scheduled shore excursions, WiFi, onboard gratuities, fitness classes and the use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks. Inclusions can vary in Egypt, India, Southeast Asia and Peru.
Are there any extras to pay on top of the price shown?
Spa treatments.
Do Uniworld include shore excursions?
Yes. A comprehensive program of hosted shore excursions is included, led by English-speaking local experts.
What types of excusions are available?
Depending on the itinerary, guests can choose from traditional sightseeing, active 'Let's Go' excursions, locally immersive 'Do as the Locals Do' experiences and 'Village Day' programs. Bicycles and Nordic walking sticks are also available on selected ships.
Are there any onboard activities or entertainment?
Included activities can include live local entertainment, cultural enrichment, signature lectures, daily fitness and wellness classes, yoga and TRX training. Ships also feature lounges, fitness centres, spas and pools on selected ships.
What are the cabins like on Uniworld's river ships?
All accommodation is river-facing, ranging from elegantly appointed staterooms to spacious suites. Many European ships feature handcrafted Savoir beds, luxury linens and individually designed interiors, with butler service available in selected suite categories.
Recent Uniworld reviews
Best way to see Venice 0
Mel and Lilly , NSW, Australia, Aug 2026
Uniworld does a great job of showcasing Venice to its guests without being part of the vast tourist crowds that you see. Private tours of several attractions are organised and the tour guides very knowlegable. Hospitality on board was excellent. Dining was very comfortable with many different table combinations and food choices galore. Highlights were read more the early morning visit to Doges Palace and after hours visit to St. Marks Basilica. Plus Georgie and her team at Global Journeys did a good job coordinating our booking.
Uniworld 0
Amsterdam and Barcelona ladies, CA, United States, May 2026
This was my second river cruise and 10th actual small ship cruise. I was very impressed with Uniworld as contrasted to a prior river cruise line. The food was quite good, not exceptional, but certainly of quality and well prepared. Chef outdid himself at a special paid dinner with beef wellington and other fabulous French dishes. Service couldn't read more have been better- in both the dining room and cabins. Our hotel manager just won the hotel manager of the year for the cruise line, and it shows.
On a bit of a negative side, the cabins are well laid out and thought through but very small. I am glad my friend and I had separate cabins otherwise there wouldn't have been enough room. The elevator was broken, which was a HUGE inconvenience for us as we have mobility issues. Apparently, a guest ran into the glass with a suitcase and broke it. It was down for the entirety of the trip. Some of the excursions weren't very good and not worth the time of leaving the boat. There was a huge downpour one day and the busses were parked quite away from the ship. It would have been considerate of them to send out some people with umbrellas; all of us were completely soaked (to the skin). Would I sail on Uniworld again, yes but in a larger cabin! Good experience!
European Jewels Review 0
James, ON, Canada, Sep 2025
The trip was a river cruise. The trip started in Budapest on the Danube River and went through Austria and then on the Main River through Germany on the Danube Main Canal ending on the Rhine River in Amsterdam. The cruise was in the River Duchess. The ship was nice and the stateroom was spacious. A very pleasant experience.
Luxury all the way 1
Neville and Aynsley, New Zealand, Aug 2025
Food and wine superb and consistant. Staff were excellent and very obliging. Interesting progamme of excursions spoilt for choice. Overall best river criusing company we have used.
Fantastic Uniworld river cruise through Belgium. 0
Narelle and Chris, QLD, Australia, Dec 2024
Our river cruise with Uniworld was a Christmas markets cruise through Belgium which which was very beautiful. Although we have been on river cruises before, Uniworld was the best by far. The SS Victoria was a new ship and was tastefully and elegantly designed and furnished. Our suite was spacious, with the most comfortable bed, walk in robe and a huge read more floor to ceiling french balcony window. We had in room drinks, sweets, fruit etc. So much is included, so we never had to pay for anything onboard. Meals were the best you would expect from the best fine dining anywhere. Drinks were also included and not just with meals. All staff were very friendly and knew our names from the second day. We were so well looked after throughout the whole trip. Excursions were included and they even took us to a private Christmas concert in a cathedral. The whole trip from start to finish was perfect and if anyone is considering a river cruise you couldnt go past Uniworld if you want the best of the best . We always book through Global Journeys with Georgie and our next trip will be booked with them again.
Uniworld's most popular trips this month...
+ Global Journeys
