Australia's river cruise sector is set to reach a new milestone with the introduction of the PS Australian Star, the country's first five-star river vessel. The paddlesteamer, which will operate from Echuca, Victoria, is scheduled to welcome its first guests on 18 September 2026, offering year-round departures along the Murray River.
The vessel, billed as the largest wood-fired paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere, will carry just 38 passengers, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience. It combines the nostalgic charm of a 19th-century paddlesteamer with contemporary luxury, featuring deluxe air-conditioned staterooms, a gourmet restaurant, and multiple outdoor lounges.
Backed by the Victorian Government's Regional Tourism Investment Fund, the PS Australian Star is powered by a hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system built around an original 1907 wood-fired steam engine. This innovative approach merges heritage with modern efficiency, delivering an authentic yet comfortable cruising experience.
All-inclusive Murray River itineraries
The vessel will offer three-, four-, and seven-night cruises, all inclusive of meals, excursions, and transfers. Daily shore excursions are designed to showcase the Murray River's rich history and natural beauty, with visits to farm stations, wineries, and heritage towns. Evenings can include riverside barbecues under starlit skies, a signature experience for guests.
Fares for 2028 start at A$3,125 per person for a three-night cruise, with early bird savings of A$500 per couple available for bookings made by 30 September 2026. Seven-night bookings also include a complimentary pre-cruise night at the Mercure Port of Echuca motel.
The launch of the PS Australian Star comes at a time when river cruising is expanding beyond traditional European waterways. While operators like Uniworld Boutique River Cruises are adding new ships in Europe, Australia is carving out its own niche with this unique paddlesteamer offering.
Industry observers note that the Murray River has long been an under-served destination for luxury river cruising. The PS Australian Star aims to change that, positioning Echuca as a gateway for high-end river travel in the Southern Hemisphere.
"This vessel represents a significant step forward for Australian river cruising," said a spokesperson for the operator. "We are blending the romance of the past with the expectations of today's discerning travellers."
The project has also been welcomed by local tourism bodies, who see it as a boost for regional Victoria. The vessel's year-round operation is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Echuca and surrounding communities.
For travel agents and tour operators, the PS Australian Star offers a new product to sell to clients seeking unique, small-ship experiences. With only 38 berths, demand is likely to be high, and early bookings are encouraged.
As Australia's river cruise market matures, the PS Australian Star could pave the way for further investment in the sector. Its hybrid propulsion system and commitment to heritage may also appeal to eco-conscious travellers, aligning with broader trends in sustainable tourism.
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