Murray River Paddlesteamers has announced early-booking discounts for 2027 sailings aboard the PS Australian Star, Australia's first five-star river vessel. The wood-fired paddlesteamer, set to launch this spring, will operate three-, four- and seven-night itineraries from the historic Victorian riverport of Echuca.
Guests who book by 30 September 2026 can save A$500 (approx. US$320) per couple on 2027 departures. The offer applies to all cabin categories and can be combined with a free pre-cruise night at the Mercure Port of Echuca motel for those booking the seven-night voyage.
Vessel design and guest experience
The PS Australian Star accommodates just 38 passengers in deluxe staterooms, positioning it firmly in the small-ship luxury segment. Its propulsion system marries a 1907 wood-fired steam engine with a hybrid diesel/steam setup, preserving the nostalgic charm of a classic paddlesteamer while meeting modern efficiency standards. Onboard amenities include a plush lounge, a gourmet restaurant and outdoor relaxation areas.
Shore excursions take guests to farm stations, wineries and heritage towns along the Murray River. Evening activities include riverside barbecues under starlit skies, designed to immerse travellers in the region's natural and cultural landscape.
For travel professionals, the operator offers a 10% commission on all bookings. The booking code 'Senhot' must be used to access the early-bird rate. Conditions apply and availability is limited.
This launch adds a distinctive option to Australia's domestic river-cruise market, which has seen growing interest from international visitors seeking authentic outback and river experiences. The PS Australian Star's small capacity and heritage-focused design align with broader trends in small luxury cruises, where space, service and simplicity are winning over mega-ship spectacle.
Murray River Paddlesteamers has not disclosed whether the vessel will be marketed through global distribution systems such as Amadeus or Sabre, but the 10% agent commission suggests a direct-booking strategy aimed at Australian and New Zealand travel advisors. The company may also target the North American and European luxury travel market through consortiums like Virtuoso or Ensemble Travel Group.
Fares for the three-night cruise start at A$2,540 (approx. US$1,620) per person, including meals, excursions and transfers. The seven-night package, with the free pre-cruise hotel night, represents a value proposition for clients seeking an extended river journey without the premium pricing of comparable European river cruises.
For agents and operators looking to diversify their river-cruise portfolio beyond Europe and Asia, the PS Australian Star offers a rare opportunity to sell a homegrown luxury product on one of Australia's most iconic waterways. The early-bird window runs through September 2026, giving advisors ample time to incorporate the vessel into 2027 group and FIT itineraries.
