That’s a wrap – APT’s Diamond VIPs sail into Frankfurt

APT’s top performing industry partners, along with Travel Weekly have been pampered by the luxury cruise operator for the past six days.

Starting in Amsterdam and cruising through the Mosel and the Rhine, where each view seemed better than the last, guests enjoyed a constant flow of sumptuous food and free flowing wine. Guided tours through a selection of the destinations regular passengers would enjoy were paired with VIP experiences designed exclusively for these Diamond Partners.

The group dynamic on board was fantastic, with established larger agencies through to smaller independent groups sharing experiences and insights all through the week.

Tom Hardy’s expert wine knowledge onboard gave everyone an improved understanding of the industry and pairing, whist Luke Nguyen wowed the crowd with his lightening quick “munchies” creations, which included a ten-minute smoked-at-home duck recipe.

Left to right: Tom Hardy, Luke Nguyen and Lynne Nguyen

It was no small feat for APT to organise such an event, with the AmaVenita having to be taken out of action for two weeks – next week will be run for the Platinum partners of the group. The awards dinner for the Diamond Partners usually takes place in Melbourne, but all the stops were pulled out this year with the ceremony taking place at Burg Namedy Castle.

It seems that all the logistical hard work was well worth it in the eyes of Debra Fox, Executive General Manager Global Sales and Marketing who said “Having like minded business people rewarded and pampered onboard our product shows APT’s appreciation of them whilst allowing them to learn and share experiences with industry leaders. This Diamond Cruise showed us just how similar the values between APT and our partners are, which resonates in their fantastic sales achievements.”

Some of the on board Diamond Partners celebrating the farewell evening

The consensus with the partners was unanimous; an unforgettable experience put on faultlessly by the team. Now back to reality where we’ll all have to learn to live without the indulgent, all-inclusive way of life set against rolling European country views.

Stunning views from the Monument at Rüdesheim

Mainz Cathedral; our final stop on the cruise

The full crew of the AmaVenita are brought out and thanked on the final evening of the cruise

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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