Well-crafted itineraries led by expert guides around the globe.
APT cruises are finely-curated adventures to mainstream and off-the-beaten-path destinations. But the structured daily schedules won’t suit every traveler.
Amy Stoltenberg writes about lifestyle and money for Finder, researching the best options for shopping, banking, insurance and authentic travel experiences. After studying writing and fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design, she worked designing apparel at a corporate behemoth before opting for a career with unlimited travel time. When her laptop’s closed, she can be found wandering the streets looking for happy hour and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Expert review
A common statement from past APT passengers is “everything was taken care of.” To folks that enjoy well-designed daily schedules and curated itineraries, that may sound like a dream. But travelers that value independence, flexibility and personalized amenities may be frustrated by this one-size-fits-all approach.
APT was founded in the 1920s as an Australia commuter line before expanding to tours around the globe. Today, it has a following of die-hard loyalists that return again and again for the expert guides and comprehensive excursions in far-flung destinations. Still, Americans who prefer large-ship cruising may be a bit bored during days at sea, as onboard entertainment and organized activities are minimal. APT tends to attract an older crowd, so you’ll likely be in the company of retirees. But the group will be diverse, with travelers from around the world.
If you’re shopping for a truly luxurious river cruise, choose Tauck or Viking River Cruises instead. And if you’re looking for a luxe small-ship sailing experience, opt for Seabourn. But if you’re hoping to reach that sweet spot between informative tours and comfy cabins, APT may be just what you need.
Types of APT cruises
APT is first and foremost a tour company — cruising is just one way it shows travelers around. If you’re in the market for a cruise, the first thing to do is understand what APT has to offer.
Here’s a cheat sheet on what APT has to offer. Note that you’ll be accompanied on every cruise by an APT tour director or expedition leader — even if the ship has been borrowed from another company.
Ocean cruise
River cruise
Small ship cruise
Luxury Mega Yacht cruise
What to expect
One part land tour, one part cruise, APT partners with Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line for hybrid adventures through New England, New Zealand and Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Classic river cruises through Asia and Europe. Choose between a 5-star Luxury River Cruise or a less expensive 4-star Premium River Cruise.
Its fleet of small ships sails to niche and off-the-beaten-path ports in fascination destinations like the Norwegian Fjords, Antarctica and the Baltic Islands.
These tours occur just a couple of times per year on a privately-chartered yacht.
Compare APT’s cruise ships
Since APT prioritizes dynamic journeys rather than resort-style ships, it doesn’t invest in bigger and better vessels. Instead, it uses its own fleet for small ship and river cruising and leans on other cruise lines for ocean and luxury yacht tours.
That said, you can generally expect 4- to 5-star accommodations and top-notch service from its crew. Its boats are classy and comfortable, without too many bells and whistles.
Since the actual ship experience can vary widely depending on the cruise you book, we recommend selecting an itinerary and clicking Ship Details to learn exactly what to expect on your chosen tour.
Where do APT cruises depart from?
APT tours kickstart from ports around the world. Here’s where you can begin an APT cruise:
Amsterdam, Athens, Bali Denpasar, Barbados, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Dover, Dubai, Dubrovnik, Fort Lauderdale, Guam, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Keelung, Lima, Lisbon, London, Los Angeles, Mahe Island, Miami, Mumbai, New Orleans, New York City, Palma De Mallorca, Papeete, Puerta Caldera, Quebec, Rome, San Diego, San Juan, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo, Venice, Yokohama
APT cruise destinations
Travelers checking world-famous destinations off their bucket list will be pleased with APT’s well-rounded itineraries and vast array of destinations. Here’s a taste of where you can go with APT cruises:
Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, Hawaii, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, Mexico, Middle East, Northern Europe, Pacific, South Pacific, Transatlantic, Western Europe
What’s included on APT cruises?
Inclusions vary, depending on the itinerary and tour type — though shore excursions are always included.
Otherwise, APT fare tends to cover perks like alcoholic beverages, shore excursions and gratuities, in addition to meals, snacks and accommodations. But check the details for each itinerary to confirm.
Why you should (or shouldn’t) cruise with APT
Before booking your cruise, weigh the benefits and drawbacks:
Pros
Expert guided tours with top-notch directors.
Excursions hit all the popular attractions.
Wide variety of itineraries to choose from.
Most cruises are truly all-included.
Cons
Ships can feel old and outdated.
Fare is pricier up front than less specialized cruise lines.
Only a couple of US departure ports.
Fewer onboard entertainment options than larger cruise lines.
Australian Pacific Touring. The company has its roots in Melbourne.
APT cruises is owned and operated by the McGeary family, descendants of Bill McGeary, the original founder.
Smart casual. On ocean cruises, there will be formal nights — jackets and ties for men, and cocktail dresses or slacks/skirts and blouses for women. Dress comfortably, bringing warm layers and good walking shoes.
Up to $1,000 to spend on board with Norwegian Cruise Line
Just book your next cruise vacation with Priceline Cruises and get up to $1,000 to use as a liquor, dining, and spa credit, along with other purchases made on the ship! T&Cs apply.
Exclusive – up to $1,000 to spend on board, plus 10% off shore excursions! T&Cs apply. Ports of Call: Miami, Fl, Half Moon Cay, The Bahamas, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Miami, Fl
Bahamas Paradise 2-night cruise deal for two: $69 per person
All meals onboard (alcoholic beverages and specialty restaurants not included). Theater shows, live music, pool-deck parties, day in The Bahamas. Spa & beauty salon and full casino available. 2 nights of accommodations.
Put your dream vacation on the calendar now, and pay for it later! In addition, choose to streamline payment even further by splitting your fare into easy monthly installments with 0% interest! T&Cs apply.
At Finder, we value and respect our editorial independence. We keep our reviews completely factual so you can use them to make better decisions. While we may receive revenue and referral fees from advertising and affiliate links, advertisers do not approve our reviews.
A common statement from past APT passengers is “everything was taken care of.” To folks that enjoy well-designed daily schedules and curated itineraries, that may sound like a dream. But travelers that value independence, flexibility and personalized amenities may be frustrated by this one-size-fits-all approach.
APT was founded in the 1920s as an Australia commuter line before expanding to tours around the globe. Today, it has a following of die-hard loyalists that return again and again for the expert guides and comprehensive excursions in far-flung destinations. Still, Americans who prefer large-ship cruising may be a bit bored during days at sea, as onboard entertainment and organized activities are minimal. APT tends to attract an older crowd, so you’ll likely be in the company of retirees. But the group will be diverse, with travelers from around the world.
If you’re shopping for a truly luxurious river cruise, choose Tauck or Viking River Cruises instead. And if you’re looking for a luxe small-ship sailing experience, opt for Seabourn. But if you’re hoping to reach that sweet spot between informative tours and comfy cabins, APT may be just what you need.
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