Luxury paddlesteamer to sail Australia’s Murray River
One of Australia’s most iconic waterways can be cruised in a whole new way later this year – aboard the country’s first five-star paddlesteamer.
From 1 December, travellers will be able to experience the Murray River on the PS Australian Star.
It is operated by Murray River Paddlesteamers and will be the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star, overnight paddlesteamer in the world.
Departing the river town of Echuca in northern Victoria, the PS Australian Star has capacity for 38 guests.
It is currently being built in Mildura, on the edge of the Australian outback.
The $7 million vessel will feature:
19 staterooms, each with ensuite, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and access to private decks
A fine-dining restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine
A deluxe lounge with panoramic windows
Spacious outdoor decks for sunset cocktails
A hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system, powered by a restored 1907 wood-fired steam engine
The PS Australian Star will offer three, four, and seven night all-inclusive cruises year-round from Echuca.
It will feature excursions to boutique wineries, national parks, Indigenous cultural sites and outback adventures.
Fares include all onboard meals, daily shore excursions, cruise transfers, and Wi-Fi.
Guests also enjoy complimentary gratuities, selected beers and wines with dinner, soft drinks, bottled water, and tea/coffee throughout the cruise.
Special offers are available via Murray River Paddlesteamers include discounts for solo guests travelling in January 2026, as well as an Early Bird offer for 2027 departures.
To book direct visit www.mrps.com.au or APT Touring.
Craig Burgess, Director, Murray River Paddlesteamers said: “The PS Australian Star is a milestone for river cruising in Australia. Powered by a traditional wood-fired steam engine, it offers a gentle, unhurried journey along the Murray River.”
“It’s a new way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes.”
Shae Keenan, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Victoria added: “One of Victoria’s biggest strengths is our compact diversity, with so much nature, wildlife and wellness to explore right on Melbourne’s doorstep. The launch of the PS Australian Star is perfect for travellers looking for something beyond the bustling city.”
Launching in late 2027, the fleet will expand with the PS Australian Sky, offering cruises between Mildura and Wentworth, plus a special 11-night winter voyage to Mannum in South Australia.
For visitors short on time, the new Murray River Paddlesteamer & Wine Tour by Local Way Tours offers a one-day escape from Melbourne.
Departing Wednesday to Sunday, this small-group tour (max 15 guests) includes a scenic paddlesteamer cruise and regional wine tasting.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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