Bookings open next month for paddle steamer Australian Star

As reported here, the A$6.75m paddle steamer Australian Star is under construction in Mildura, Victoria.

Maiden voyage

Her maiden four-night voyage will depart the historic river port of Echuca, Victoria, on May 5, 2025, followed by a three-night departure on May 9. 

These cruises will continue in rotation all year, with the opportunity to combine both for a seven-night voyage.

Including the early bird discount, which is available until February 29, fares for the three-night cruise are from A$2,403 per person twin-share and from A$3,204 for four nights.

The seven-night cruise costs from A$5,652. 

The fares include rail transport between Melbourne and Echuca, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, gratuities, beer and wine with dinner and soft drinks, bottled water and tea and coffee throughout the cruise.

 Replacing Emmylou

The Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund contributed A$2.25m towards the building of the 38-passenger Australian Star, which will replace the 16-passenger Emmylou.

It is aimed at high-end travellers from around Australia and abroad.

Australian Star will have an energy-efficient hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system featuring a vintage 1907 Richard Garrett and Sons wood-fired steam engine, adding ‘nostalgia and authenticity’ to its voyages.

Director Craig Burgess said Australian Star will be the largest paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired five-star accommodated paddle steamer in the world.

Romance and comfort

‘Australian Star will fuse the past with the present, allowing guests to relish the timeless charm of a romantic paddle steamer, while savouring the elegance and comfort of contemporary cruising,’ Burgess said.