PS Australian Star

About the PS Australian Star

A highlight of our Grand Australia tour is a three-night cruise along the Murray River aboard the PS Australian Star, a newly built paddle steamer combining the character and heritage of traditional steam-powered cruising with the comforts of a contemporary river vessel.

Purpose-built for the Murray River and carrying a maximum of just 38 guests, the PS Australian Star offers a relaxed and personal way to discover Australia's longest river. At its heart is a beautifully restored wood-fired steam engine, while its paddlewheel and classic profile recall the vessels that once played an important role in connecting communities along the Murray.

Over three nights, there is plenty of time to settle into the gentle pace of river life, watch the changing scenery from the viewing decks and step ashore to discover the history, produce and landscapes of the Murray River region.

The Journey

Our three-night cruise begins in Echuca and ends at Torrumbarry Weir, following the Murray River through a landscape of towering river red gums and peaceful bushland. Time spent cruising is complemented by a varied programme of excursions that reveals more about the communities, characters and stories connected to this historic waterway.

Along the way, visit the wonderfully eclectic Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum, before sampling regional produce during a wine tasting and lunch at St Anne's Winery. Explore historic Perricoota Station on a guided walk and discover the story of the Murray-Darling Basin and its Interpretive Centre.

Life on Board

Life aboard the PS Australian Star moves at an easy pace, with spacious viewing decks providing plenty of opportunities to watch the Murray River scenery drift by. The Hopwood Lounge & Bar is a comfortable gathering place for a drink, while guests are also welcome to visit the wheelhouse and learn more about the vessel and its historic steam engine.

Evenings bring their own character, with time to chat with fellow passengers and a presentation exploring the fascinating history of the Murray River. One evening, step ashore for a riverside barbecue, followed by acoustic music around a crackling campfire beneath the Australian night sky.

Your Cabin

Distant Journeys guests stay in a comfortable Queen Stateroom, thoughtfully designed in a contemporary style and with direct access to the outside deck, placing the ever-changing Murray River scenery just a few steps away.

Cabin Facilities

• Twin or queen-size beds
• En-suite bathroom
• Individual climate control.
• Flat-screen television
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Dining

Dining aboard the PS Australian Star celebrates the flavours and produce of the Murray River region. Meals are served in the Randell Dining Room, where menus feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients and contemporary Australian dishes.

Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are included throughout the cruise, with selected tea, coffee, soft drinks and bottled water also available. At dinner, selected beers and wines are included, while one of the most memorable meals takes place ashore, with a riverside barbecue, campfire and acoustic music providing a fitting taste of Australian hospitality.

Inclusions

• Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, featuring fresh, locally sourced produce
• Selected tea, coffee, soft drinks and bottled water
• Selected beer and wine during dinner service