Murray River Paddlesteamers and APT Travel Group have officially launched PS Australian Star, Australia's first five-star overnight riverboat, with a promotional campaign offering savings of up to A$2,500 (US$1,600) per couple on select seven-night cruises. The vessel, which accommodates 38 guests, departed on its inaugural voyage from Echuca, Victoria, on 5 October 2026.
The 'Star Has Arrived Sale' applies to new bookings made by 31 October 2026 for departures in 2027 and 2028. Discounts vary by sailing date: A$1,250 per person for cruises in June, July, or August 2027; A$750 per person for a November 2027 departure; and A$500 per person for 2028 sailings. Eligible bookings also receive a complimentary pre-cruise night at the Mercure Port of Echuca hotel.
Heritage meets modern comfort
PS Australian Star is the largest wood-fired paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere, combining a hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system with a 1907 wood-fired steam engine. The vessel offers 19 staterooms, a deluxe lounge, and a gourmet restaurant, blending nostalgic charm with contemporary amenities. Fares start at A$5,745 per person, twin-share, and include rail transfers, meals, daily excursions, and onboard entertainment.
Daily shore excursions take guests to farm stations, wineries, and heritage towns along the Murray River, with riverside barbecues under starlit skies as a signature experience. The itinerary is designed to immerse travellers in the region's cultural and natural heritage, appealing to both domestic and international visitors seeking an authentic Australian river cruise.
The launch comes as river cruising continues to gain traction in Australia, with operators expanding capacity to meet demand. PS Australian Star's five-star positioning targets the luxury segment, competing with established ocean cruise lines and international river operators. The vessel's small capacity ensures an intimate atmosphere, a key selling point for high-end travellers.
APT Travel Group, a major player in the Australian tour and cruise market, is leveraging its distribution network to promote the new vessel. The partnership with Murray River Paddlesteamers, a long-standing operator on the river, provides operational expertise and local knowledge.
For travel agents, the promotional window offers a clear incentive to book clients early. The savings, combined with the complimentary hotel night, enhance the value proposition. Agents should note that the offer is limited to new bookings and expires on 31 October 2026, creating a sense of urgency for clients considering a Murray River cruise.
The Murray River region is a growing destination for experiential travel, with its wineries, national parks, and historic paddleboat heritage. PS Australian Star adds a premium option to the market, potentially attracting a new demographic of cruisers who might otherwise choose ocean or international river itineraries.
As the travel industry continues to recover, river cruising in Australia is poised for growth. The launch of PS Australian Star signals confidence in the sector, and the early-booking promotion is a strategic move to fill 2027 and 2028 departures. Operators and agents alike will be watching the vessel's performance as an indicator of the market's appetite for luxury river experiences.
