[category]
[title]
Luxury travellers of Vic, we’ve got news. It's been a long time coming, but the first ever luxury river cruise in Australia will officially debut this summer, departing from regional Victoria and sailing along the Murray in five-star style.
The winding 2,508-kilometre river will soon be home to a luxury 20-cabin vessel offering sightseeing cruises for 38 passengers at a time. The cruises will set off from the Port of Echuca, which was once Australia’s largest inland port and now is home to the world’s largest collection of paddlesteamers.
Almost ready to sail, the PS Australian Star stretches for 35 metres, with a design that fuses heritage charm with contemporary luxury. And besides being Australia's first five-star river cruise experience, it's also the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star accommodated paddlesteamer in the world.
Once on the water, the paddlesteamer will be powered by a 9.5-tonne, refurbished wood-fired steam engine that's more than 100 years old, made back in 1907 by Richard Garrett & Sons.
"Australians love cruising, and they love the Murray River – but they want comfort and facilities akin to those on European rivers," says Craig Burgess, the Murray River Paddlesteamers director.
The 20 cabins will be a mix of both queen and king suites and queen and twin bed cabins, and all accommodations will open up to a verandah. On board, there will also be a fine dining restaurant, panoramic lounge, function area, bars and outside relaxation space.
With its maiden voyage now confirmed to set sail on February 23, 2026, the boat will begin offering three, four and seven-night cruises year-round. On top of the on-board attractions, guests will also have the opportunity to explore riverside communities and attractions.
"Victoria's river country is already a compelling destination to visitors from across the world, and this latest attraction will draw even more visitors, support the communities that call them home and create more jobs," says Steve Dimopoulos, the minister for tourism, sport and major events.
To find out more about the upcoming PS Australian Star cruises, head to the website.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.