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PS Australian Star - 4 Night Explorer Cruise

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Operated by Murray River Paddlesteamers
Tripcode: 0427-4NEAS
Overview
Destination:
Australia
Start:Echuca, Australia
Finish:Echuca, Australia
Duration:5 days
Type:Group tour (max 38)
Travel Period
January 2026 - January 2027

Embark on a captivating 4-night adventure aboard the PS Australian Star Explorer Cruise, a voyage designed to unlock the secrets of Australia's picturesque waterways. This immersive journey seamlessly blends luxury with exploration, promising an unforgettable experience.

Step into a world of refined elegance as you board the Australian Star. The Explorer Cruise introduces you to an extended itinerary, allowing for a deeper dive into the region's treasures. Indulge in the comfort of thoughtfully appointed cabins, each featuring ensuite facilities and ensuring a peaceful retreat after each day's exploration.

Throughout the 4-night voyage, savor a culinary odyssey with exquisite meals that showcase the diversity of local flavors. The itinerary is meticulously crafted to provide a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. Engage in enriching on-shore excursions that unveil the hidden gems of the landscape, from cultural landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders.

Whether you're absorbing panoramic views from the deck, participating in immersive shore activities, or enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travelers, the PS Australian Star Explorer Cruise invites you to create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the magic of Australia's waterways during this extended adventure, where each day unfolds a new chapter of exploration and wonder.

Inclusions

  • Luxury stateroom accommodation with ensuite, climate control, and deck access
  • All meals included, featuring regionally inspired menus prepared by the onboard chef
  • Morning and afternoon teas with freshly baked treats and local produce
  • Complimentary return V/Line train fare from Melbourne 
  • Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner service
  • Unlimited espresso coffee, premium teas, and bottled water
  • Daily guided onshore excursions to iconic and historic locations
  • High-speed Starlink Wi-Fi throughout the vessel
  • Courtesy return coach transfers to Echuca (car parking, train station, and CBD hotels)
  • Warm, personalised service from your experienced onboard crew
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
  • Luxury stateroom accommodation with ensuite, climate control, and deck access
  • All meals included, featuring regionally inspired menus prepared by the onboard chef
  • Morning and afternoon teas with freshly baked treats and local produce
  • Complimentary return V/Line train fare from Melbourne 
  • Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner service
  • Unlimited espresso coffee, premium teas, and bottled water
  • Daily guided onshore excursions to iconic and historic locations
  • High-speed Starlink Wi-Fi throughout the vessel
  • Courtesy return coach transfers to Echuca (car parking, train station, and CBD hotels)
  • Warm, personalised service from your experienced onboard crew
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Itinerary
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Day 1

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 Emmylou 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 skipper and a behind-the-scenes look at Australian Star's authentic wood-fired steam engine. Or simply unwind in the comfort of your private cabin and let the river's rhythm ease you into holiday mode.

As the sun dips low, the evening begins with a drink in the saloon—enjoy a local wine or craft beer 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: a chef-prepared welcome feast 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.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast, PS Australian Star cruises gracefully to the storied Perricoota Station—a historic property first settled by James Maiden in 1843. Immortalised in the beloved TV mini-series All the Rivers Run, this picturesque station served as a filming location where our very own PS Emmylou appeared as the fictional PS Providence.

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.

 

Day 3

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.

Day 4

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 aboard Emmylou, 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.

Day 5

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.

Dates

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Travellers

Operator
Murray River Paddlesteamers

In 1996, Murray River Paddlesteamers began their first cruises along the Murray River and has since expanded to include the PS PS Emmylou, updated with 8 luxury cabins with ensuites in 2018, and the hundred year old PS Canberra. After twelve months of restoration during 2002-2003, Paddle Steamer Canberra is to date, the only known vessel along the Murray River to have been converted back to steam. In March 2015 the business was purchased by brother’s Craig & Rohan Burgess together with local identity & Skipper Neil Hutchinson. The business continues to grow and expand on strong foundations which was acknowledged in July 2016 with the business winning Gold at the Regional Tourism Awards and Silver in the prestigious VTIC, Victorian Tourism Awards again in 2018.. We are dedicated to making your cruise along the Murray river memorable offering a wide range of cruising options across three traditional Paddlesteamers. Each vessel is unique and shows the dedication we have in providing an experience for our guests with all cruises short or long offering live historical commentary from the skipper. From a 1 hour cruise, lunch or dinner experience or a luxurious overnight boutique inland river cruise aboard PS Emmylou, we have something for everyone to enjoy. We are proud to continue the tradition of river cruising along Australia’s greatest waterway with our trademark level of country hospitality aboard pour authentic paddlesteamers. We hope you can join us to connect you with Australia’s inland history, geography, culture and cuisine. The Murray offers a unique destination to discover one of Australia’s beautiful regions; the riverside towns, the wildlife, and of course, a cruise on an old paddle steamer.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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4 nights
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