An exciting new era in Australian river cruising is getting closer, with the debut next June of Australia’s first five-star, overnight riverboat, the brand, new PS Australian Star, which will offer cruises up to a week long on the Murray River from Echuca in Victoria. And as part of the countdown, Murray River Paddlesteamers is offering early bird savings of 10 per cent and a bar credit of $100 per stateroom for bookings made by October 31, 2024.
The offer applies to all 2025 sailings aboard the 38-guest PS Australian Star, which is currently under construction in Mildura. Fusing heritage and contemporary elegance, PS Australian Star will be the first five-star river vessel in Australia, the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star, accommodated paddlesteamer in the world.
The new $6.75 million vessel will begin offering year-round cruises of between three and seven nights on the Murray River from Echuca from June 16, 2025.
Backed by $2.25 million in funding by the Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund, PS Australian Star will boast a deluxe lounge offering sweeping river vistas, a fine-dining restaurant, multiple outdoor relaxation areas and 19 sleek staterooms, all opening to a deck and offering an ensuite, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury linen and a TV entertainment system as well as ever-changing river views.
The modern-day paddlesteamer will also sport a modern, energy-efficient, hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system featuring the 1907 wood-fired steam engine, adding a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to the journey.
Including the 10 per cent discount, fares for a three-night cruise will be available from $2403 per person, twin-share, a four-night cruise from $3204 per person, twin-share, and a seven-night cruise from $5652 per person, twin-share. The offer, which also includes a $100 per stateroom onboard bar credit, is available until October 31, 2024, and is subject to conditions and availability.
Fares include onboard meals, daily shore excursions and experiences, cruise transfers, Wi-Fi, gratuities, selected beers and wines with dinner and soft drink, bottled water and tea/coffee throughout the cruise.
To book, call Murray River Paddlesteamers on 03 5482 5244 or visit www.mrps.com.au
* Murray River Paddlesteamers offers a 10 per cent commission for travel agents booking Australian Star sailings plus bonuses for multiple bookings.
