Australia’s first five-star overnight riverboat has officially launched on the Murray River in Victoria.
The PS Australian Star commenced its inaugural seven-night voyage from Echuca on October 5.
Operated by Murray River Paddlesteamers, part of the APT Travel Group, the new vessel accommodates 38 guests and offers year-round cruises of three to seven nights.
More than three years in development, the paddlesteamer combines 19 luxury staterooms, a gourmet restaurant, spacious outdoor areas and a passenger lift connecting all decks.
Featuring a restored 1907 wood-fired steam engine alongside a modern hybrid propulsion system, it is the largest wood-fired paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere.
Guests can enjoy daily excursions to wineries, historic towns and farm stations, along with riverside barbecues.
Craig Burgess, Murray River Paddlesteamers Director, described the launch as a significant milestone for Australian river cruising, confirming that cabins are sold out for the remainder of 2026, with strong forward bookings for 2027 and 2028.
The project received $2.25 million in funding from the Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund and joins the operator’s existing 16-guest PS Emmylou.
Three-night cruises start from $3,045 per person twin share, including return rail transfers from Melbourne, meals, excursions, Wi-Fi and selected beverages.
Three- and four-night itineraries can also be combined into seven-night journeys, while APT offers additional all-inclusive sailings on selected dates.
Travel agents receive 10 per cent commission on Murray River Paddlesteamers bookings.
