APT’s newest flagship river ship, Solara, has made her sold-out maiden voyage. Here’s a sneak peek inside.
Solara has just made her maiden voyage from Amsterdam for a 15-day journey of the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers.
Joining the sold-out sailing were travellers from Australia, among the first in the world to experience APT’s “most innovative and luxuriously designed river ship to date”.
APT CEO David Cox says, “We’ve poured years of thought, passion and precision into bringing Solara to life”.
“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 team.”


Conceived in close collaboration with Melbourne’s Hecker Guthrie design studio, and culinary specialists Fellow Hospitality, Solara “redefines river cruising with her open, airy interiors, premium finishes, and seven thoughtfully curated dining experiences”.
Hecker Guthrie’s Paul Hecker says, “Designing Solara has been a career highlight – and seeing it now through the eyes of guests is something else entirely”.
“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.”

The ship includes an elevated glass atrium and The Grüner Bar & Dining – a hydraulic venue that rises to the sun deck for uninterrupted views.
Director of Fellow Hospitality Monique Lane says, “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”.
For more information, see APT.