Australia to build five-star Murray River shipAustralia to build five-star Murray River ship

The 38-passenger Australian Star will come on line in April 2025 and will replace the company’s 16-passenger Emmylou.

Largest in Southern Hemisphere

She will be the largest paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star accommodated paddle steamer in the world.

She will have three decks and the company’s first elevator and a fine-dining restaurant serving local produce.

All cabins, with en suites, will be air-conditioned and will open onto a deck. Two will be for passengers with mobility issues.

Aimed at high-end travellers from around Australia and around the world, the ship has received A$2.25m funding from the Victorian government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund.

She will sail from Echuca in Victoria on year-round three-and-four-night cruises along the Murray River that can be combined to make a seven-night voyage.

All-inclusive fares

Fares, to be announced in July, will be all-inclusive, covering rail transfers from Melbourne, daily shore excursions including a camp fire under the stars and beer and wine at dinner.