APT is literally raising the bar when it comes to river cruising in Europe. The Australian-owned travel operator is launching two luxurious identical ships, Solara and Ostara, with six dining venues each - more than any other river-cruising vessel in the region. But all eyes will be on the Gruner Bar & Dining, which will be located on the upper deck of the ships, but when the vessels dock, a ground-breaking hydraulics system will lift it to the top-level sun deck, affording 360-degree views.
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![Sun deck on APT's Ostara and Solara ships. Sun deck on APT's Ostara and Solara ships.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/190394412/7835d5a9-c2df-412c-85c6-224d5044e20e.jpg/r0_224_5000_3040_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Revolving around the seasons and regions the ships are visiting, the food menu will be just as impressive: petite crepes with creme fraiche one day; zucchini flowers with local ricotta the next.
![APT's Ostara and Solara ships. APT's Ostara and Solara ships.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/190394412/be4d2686-abe5-4664-9f71-b130503438b3.jpg/r0_0_5000_3250_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Setting sail in 2025 on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, the ships have been designed by Melbourne-based firm Hecker Guthrie, keeping in mind facets that Australian travellers appreciate - think calming nature-inspired shades and sumptuous finishes. Custom-built for the European waters, both ships will be 135 metres long, with 77 suites and room for just 154 guests. aptouring.com
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