A Story Nearly a Century in the Making: APT Ostara Christened in Vienna

20 July, 2026

The APT Travel Group celebrated the christening of its luxury river ship, the APT Ostara, last week in a heartfelt ceremony held in Vienna. As the family-owned business approaches its centenary in 2027, the occasion was a warm reminder of the story at its heart of family, legacy, and the generations carrying it forward.

Guests gathered on the ship's upper Sundeck for canapés and drinks, before Family Principal and Director Lou Tandy welcomed everyone and shared a few words on the significance of the occasion. Guests then moved shoreside, where the ship's Godmother, Lou's daughter, read a blessing before the traditional breaking of the champagne bottle against the hull, officially christening the APT Ostara. The moment saw the third generation of the family who began the business stand alongside the fourth. Guests then came together for a gala dinner, before celebrations continued with champagne, cocktails and entertainment.

"As the third generation to lead our family business, I think a lot about the people who came before me, and the generations who will follow. As we approach our centenary, Ostara represents our commitment to the future; a next-generation river ship, designed for the next generation of APT travellers. Sharing this milestone with my daughter today was especially meaningful. It was a reminder that family businesses are built by thinking beyond today.” Said Lou.

The APT Travel Group CEO David Cox said, "As we approach our centenary, Ostara and Solara are a reflection of both our heritage and our future. They honour nearly 100 years of experience while demonstrating our commitment to continued growth, innovation and investment in the guest experience. These ships build on everything APT is known for, while helping shape the next chapter of our business and the journeys we'll create for future generations of travellers.

"Like her sister ship, APT Ostara's interiors were designed by acclaimed Melbourne-based studio Hecker Guthrie, bringing the same sophistication to every space onboard.

With a capacity for just 154 guests, APT Ostara mirrors the refined design of her sister ship, featuring the same expansive Balcony and Owner's Suites, and The Grüner Bar & Dining, which lifts hydraulically to offer sweeping 360-degree views from the Sun Deck. Dining is at the heart of the experience, with six distinctive venues plus in-suite dining, each offering unique regional flavours that evolve with the seasons.