Murray River Paddlesteamers has confirmed 18 September 2026 as the launch date for its new PS Australian Star, with the operator also releasing the vessel’s full 2028 cruise program and an early booking offer for travellers and agents.
The 38-guest vessel will operate year-round from Echuca, Victoria, offering three, four and seven-night Murray River itineraries. Its inaugural voyage will be a three-night cruise departing Echuca on 18 September 2026.
New five-star Murray River cruise product
Australian Star is being positioned at the premium end of Australia’s domestic river cruise market. Murray River Paddlesteamers describes it as the largest wood-fired paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the world’s only five-star accommodated paddlesteamer.
The vessel combines traditional paddlesteamer styling with contemporary facilities, including air-conditioned staterooms, a lounge with river views, an onboard restaurant and several outdoor spaces.
Its hybrid diesel and steam propulsion system incorporates an original 1907 wood-fired steam engine. The project has also received backing through the Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund.
Cruises will combine time on the Murray with daily shore experiences, including visits to farm stations, wineries and heritage towns, as well as riverside barbecues.
Earlybird offer released for 2028 cruises
The newly released 2028 program comes with savings of $250 per person, or $500 per couple, on three, four and seven-night cruises booked by 30 September 2026. Guests booking a seven-night itinerary will also receive a complimentary pre-cruise night at the Mercure Port of Echuca.
After the earlybird saving, 2028 fares start from $3,125 per person twin share for three nights, $4,255 for four nights and $6,915 for seven nights.
Fares include return V/Line rail transfers between Melbourne and Echuca, onboard meals, daily excursions and experiences, Echuca transfers, Wi-Fi, gratuities, selected beer and wine with dinner and non-alcoholic beverages.
For the travel trade, Murray River Paddlesteamers, part of the APT Travel Group, offers agents 10 per cent commission. The earlybird offer is subject to availability, with booking code “Senhot” required to access the saving.
The combination of a new premium vessel and year-round departures gives agents another Australian river cruising option to package for clients seeking a slower-paced regional Victoria experience.
