• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
Australia's Murray River is set to gain a new luxury river-cruise product with the PS Australian Star, a purpose-built paddlesteamer operating from Echuca in Victoria. The vessel is designed for year-round 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries along the Murray and will accommodate a maximum of 38 guests in 19 ensuite staterooms and suites.
The PS Australian Star is the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and has been developed as Australia's first 5-star overnight river cruise vessel. At 35 metres in length, it combines a traditional paddlesteamer profile with contemporary accommodation and public spaces, including a fine-dining restaurant, panoramic lounge, bars and outdoor areas.
A key feature is its refurbished 1907 wood-fired steam engine, which has been integrated into a hybrid diesel-and-steam propulsion system. The approach retains the operating characteristics and heritage of a traditional Murray River paddlesteamer while incorporating modern propulsion technology.
The vessel will operate from the Port of Echuca, with itineraries centred on the river's historic communities, landscapes and agricultural hinterland. Shore excursions are planned around regional attractions and local producers, including heritage sites, wineries and other destinations along the Murray. The cruise product is being marketed on an all-inclusive basis, covering meals, excursions and selected transfers.
Accommodation comprises 19 staterooms and suites, all with private ensuite facilities, air conditioning and direct deck access. The ship also includes a passenger lift serving its three decks, while its public areas include the Randell Dining Room and Hopwood Lounge and Bar.
The project has received A$2.25 million in support through the Victorian Government's Regional Tourism Investment Fund. Construction was carried out in regional Victoria, with the vessel intended to strengthen Echuca's position as a base for overnight Murray River cruising.
The PS Australian Star forms the latest addition to the fleet of Murray River Paddlesteamers, which also operates the heritage paddlesteamers PS Emmylou and PS Canberra. The new vessel is intended to replace the smaller Emmylou as the company's principal overnight luxury product while retaining the traditional paddlesteamer operating concept.
Current operator information confirms 3-, 4- and 7-night cruises from Echuca, with the vessel positioned as a year-round accommodation-based river cruise product rather than a conventional day-excursion paddlesteamer.
