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Length
5 Days
Ship category
Luxury
Ship type
Small Ships
Capacity
38 Passengers
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What we truly appreciate about the PS Australian Star is how she harmoniously bridges old-world pioneering charm and sophisticated modern luxury on Australia’s iconic Murray River. Debuting as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest paddlesteamer and the world’s only wood-fired, five-star accommodated paddle vessel, she marks a defining new chapter for Australian river cruising. Operating year-round out of the historic Victorian port town of Echuca, we believe this vessel offers the ultimate way to access the deep cultural roots, unique wildlife, and tranquil red gum forests of the region.
Days on … Read more about PS Australian Star
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Transfers to and from ship
Bar
Observation Deck
Observation Lounge
All meals
Air conditioning & private bathroom
Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices
Elevator
English guides
Restaurant
Dining aboard the PS Australian Star is a daily celebration of the rich agricultural heritage of the Murray-Darling basin. In the elegant Randell Dining Room on the Main Deck, our guests enjoy daily-changing menus highlighting locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and boutique regional producers. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, while dinner is a refined four-course à la carte experience paired with selected regional beers and wines. The Hopwood Lounge & Bar on Deck 1 provides a welcoming, atmospheric setting with full-length picturesque windows for your morning barista coffee, afternoon tea, or a signature Australian gin and tonic as the sun sets over the river red gums.
Keep in mind this is an expedition cruise, so your itinerary will depend greatly on the weather, amount of ice and wildlife breeding behavior.
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Torrumbarry Weir
Welcome aboard, your journey begins with a scenic coach transfer from Echuca to Torrumbarry, where the majestic PS Australian Star awaits. As you step aboard, you’ll be welcomed into a world of timeless river charm. Once underway, settle in with a traditional afternoon Devonshire tea as Australian Star gently cruises upstream—your first taste of life on the Murray.
Take in the tranquil beauty of the riverbanks, get acquainted with your fellow travellers, or visit the wheelhouse for a friendly chat with the Captain and a behind-the-scenes look at Australian Star’s authentic wood-fired steam engine. Or unwind in the comfort of your private Stateroom and let the river’s rhythm ease you into holiday mode.
As the sun dips low, the evening begins with a drink in the Hopwood Lounge & Bar – enjoy a local wine, craft beer or cocktail while the bushland comes alive with the calls of native birds and the sight of kangaroos emerging from the shadows.
Dinner is a highlight of the evening: an à la carte delight made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, we moor at Norris Bend, where—weather permitting—a crackling riverside campfire awaits. Gather with new friends under a blanket of stars, sharing stories and soaking in the peace of the Australian bush.
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Murray Gums Estate
After a hearty breakfast, PS Australian Star cruises gracefully to the storied Perricoota Station—a historic property first settled by James Maiden in 1843.
From here, you’ll depart for a special visit to Murray Gums Estate, a boutique producer of premium wines and award-winning olive oils. Meet the passionate owners, explore the estate, and savour a gourmet lunch featuring the best of local produce, perfectly paired with estate-grown wine and olive oil tastings.
Upon returning to Perricoota Station, your Captain will guide you on a leisurely walk through the beautifully restored historic buildings and manicured riverside gardens. As evening approaches, enjoy Happy Hour aboard with a drink in hand as golden light bathes the river.
Dinner tonight is a highlight—served alfresco on the deck of PS Australian Star, overlooking the grandeur of Perricoota Station. As night falls, settle in under the stars for Movie Night, featuring Riverboats Remembered—a captivating historical documentary that brings the paddle steamer era to life through rare archival footage spanning from the early 1900s to the mid-1970s.
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For early risers and photography enthusiasts, morning mist drifting over Perricoota Station offers a magical start to the day. Keep an eye out for native wildlife stirring along the banks—a peaceful and unforgettable moment best enjoyed with a warm cup in hand.
After a hearty breakfast, PS Australian Star steams gracefully upstream, continuing her journey toward tonight’s destination at the tranquil Layfield Lane mooring. This is a day for pure relaxation—lounge on the sun deck with a book, enjoy quiet moments watching the ever-changing scenery, or simply savour the gentle rhythm of the river.
As evening falls, the day culminates in a signature riverside experience—our much-loved Australian BBQ dinner under the stars (weather permitting). Tables set with soft candlelight and the crackle of a nearby campfire create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy live entertainment as you unwind with fellow guests, sharing stories and laughter beneath the southern sky.
Retire to your stateroom with a heart full of river memories and the sounds of the bush all around.
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Henry Hopwood Town Tour
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast aboard PS Australian Star, fueling up for a fascinating half-day adventure that brings Echuca’s rich history to life.
Disembark for the Henry Hopwood Town Tour, a guided journey through Echuca’s historic heart. Discover the stories behind landmarks such as Hopwood’s Punt and the innovative pontoon bridge—the original Murray River crossing devised by the town’s founder, Henry Hopwood.
Then, step aboard the lovingly restored PS Canberra, a 113-year-old paddlesteamer built in 1912 from sturdy red gum timber. Cruise the river aboard this historic vessel and imagine life during the height of the paddle steamer era. After your cruise, enjoy free time for a self-guided walking tour of the Port of Echuca precinct. Explore museums, heritage buildings, artisan shops, and cafes at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of one of Australia’s most iconic river ports.
Return to PS Australian Star for lunch as your river journey continues upstream. Cruise past the imposing Port of Echuca Wharf, once home to more than 100 paddle steamers during its 19th-century heyday. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, cruising upriver of Echuca. Reflect on your unforgettable journey, share stories with fellow guests, and toast to the magic of the Murray River one last time.
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As the sun rises on your final morning aboard PS Australian Star, early risers are invited to take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the serenity and birdlife one last time. After a final breakfast onboard, it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow guests, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Murray River adventure.
A complimentary coach transfer will return you to Echuca’s car parking facilities, train station, or CBD hotels, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey home.
When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you. Exceptions may apply.
Room Amenities: 2 Bottles of water on day of departure (thereafter this is provided free of charge from our restaurant or bar), Torch, Insect Repellant, Tissues, Soap, Shampoo and Conditioner
The King Suite is provided with a fully stocked mini bar which is replenished daily
Return Transfers from the partner hotel, train station or car parking facility to the vessel on day of departure and return
All regionally inspired meals - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – Breakfast and lunch are buffet style with dinner being A-la-carte.
Selected wine and beer provided during dinner service only. Beverages are available for
purchase throughout the journey with stateroom chargeback provided
Morning and Afternoon Tea
Complimentary Barista Coffee, Fine Teas, soft drink and water
24 hour cookies/fruit, tea and coffee located in Hopwood Lounge and Bar
Premium on-shore Guided Tours
Complimentary WI-FI throughout the vessel and in Staterooms and Suites
All onboard gratuities
Alcoholic beverages outside of dinner service – chargeback facility provided
In room fridges (for the exception of the King Suite)
Souvenirs purchased onboard
Any souvenirs purchased during on-shore tours and excursions
Parking – Echuca township is 3 hours maximum parking, therefore, we provide our own secure local carparking location at a low cost of $25 per day per vehicle for your clients convenience
Due to space limitations, you may bring a maximum of 15kg of luggage aboard.
It is strongly encouraged that you are adequately insured for the duration of your cruise.
If you require medical attention during the trip, medical services will be provided at local facilities.
Special dietary requests are required to be notified to us at the time of booking.
Please note that cash is not accepted on board the vessel and card payments are subject to processing fees.
Long-haul flights and the on-the-ground program generate 1.5 t CO₂e on this trip. Rivertours regularly measures and monitors the carbon footprint of its journeys and actively reduces emissions through sustainable travel design: no unnecessary flights, fewer feeder flights, integration of rail and public transport, and promoting longer stays for a more balanced relationship between travel distance and impact.
From 2018 to 2024, we supported carbon reduction projects equivalent to the emissions generated. Recognizing the limits of traditional offsetting, we now focus on active environmental protection through our own rainforest project, Forest Guardians.
More information on our climate and environmental responsibility: https://www.venturatravel.org/impact
Price
Upon Request
Historic Perricoota Station
Murray Gums Estate
Port of Echuca Heritage Precinct
The Historic PS Canberra
Best Price Guarantee: Find a better price elsewhere, and we’ll match it.
River Cruise Specialists: We focus exclusively on river expeditions, with recommendations grounded in first-hand expertise.
Travel that gives back: Every booking directly supports rainforest conservation project.
Our specialists view the 4-night Australian Star Explorer Cruise as the premier way to experience the Murray River’s pioneering history and serene landscapes. This itinerary masterfully combines cultural exploration with the natural beauty of Australia’s bushland. Relaxing days of cruising are paired with active yet gentle onshore discoveries, including guided heritage walks and boutique estate dining.
The physical demands are light, accommodating travelers of all activity levels with leisurely guided walks, while non-active guests can easily appreciate the changing scenery, rich birdlife, and historical media from the comfort of the deck. With seamless, all-inclusive hospitality—including return train travel from Melbourne—we highly recommend this expedition for anyone looking to slow down and immerse themselves in the genuine elegance of Australia’s legendary river heritage.
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