Australian Star, Discovery Cruise ex Echuca Return

3 Night Cruise sailing from Echuca to Torrumbarry Weir aboard Austrlian Star.

Day 1 - Layfield Lane
As Australian Star departs from Echuca, you can relax and enjoy an afternoon Devonshire tea while taking in the stunning sights and sounds of the river. You will have plenty of time to chat with the skipper and learn about the history of the vessel or simply unwind in your private cabin.

As the sun begins to set, Happy Hour starts, where you can enjoy a drink in the saloon before arriving at Layfield Lane for a grand dinner on the riverbank. The signature Australian BBQ, lit by candles and stars, sets the perfect mood for an evening of casual conversation and live entertainment around the campfire.

Day 2 - Onshore Tour and River Cruising
Experience the perfect start to your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a captivating half-day land and river tour that promises to be an an unforgettable journey. Your adventure begins with a visit to the fascinating Heritage Farm Museum, where you’ll immerse yourself in the charm of the past.

Next, get ready to be enchanted as you join the Murray Explorer, a magnificent vessel that will take you on an Expedition cruise along the upper Murray River. Prepare to be awestruck by the natural wonders that surround you, from breathtaking landscapes to a rich array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for White Faced Herons and you may even find a King Fisher, all this along with a captains commentary.

Later, you will visit St Anne’s Winery for a tasting of their fabulous table and fortified wines before returning to Australian Star for lunch as you continue downriver towards Deep Creek Marina. In the evening, you can unwind with a fascinating documentary featuring archival footage of the paddlesteamers and communities of the Murray River.

Day 3 - Perricoota Station & Torrumbarry Weir
Today, PS Australian Star embarks on an exhilarating full-day cruise bound for Torrumbarry Weir, promising an enriching journey filled with exploration and scenic delights. Amidst this captivating cruise, a mid-morning interlude beckons at the renowned Perricoota Station. Join the skipper for an immersive walking tour enveloped by the rich historical tapestry of Perricoota Station’s heritage.

Continuing the voyage towards Torrumbarry Weir, anticipation mounts for the forthcoming discoveries. Upon reaching the weir’s shores, partake in a guided walk, traversing the structure and delving into its history and significance. Explore the Interpretive Centre, a treasure trove of knowledge illuminating the intricate details of the Murray Darling Basin and the ingenious weir and lock system, which traces its origins back to 1923.

As the day gracefully transitions into evening, prepare for a splendid conclusion to this memorable journey. Indulge in a delectable final dinner hosted by your Skipper and Engineer, commencing with tantalising pre-dinner canapés and refreshing drinks against the backdrop of the setting sun casting its golden hues over the tranquil weir. As the stars emerge in the night sky, casting their celestial glow, savor every moment of this serene and magical evening aboard the Australian Star.

Day 4 - Echuca
This morning, early risers can enjoy a riverside stroll before breakfast. A courtesy vehicle will then be ready to return you to Echuca, where you will reluctantly say farewell to your unforgettable river journey on the Australian Star. Coach transfer to Echuca Car Parking, Train Station, and CBD Hotels

Embark on a journey into a new era of river cruising with the PS Australian Star—a vessel that not only bears a name steeped in heritage and pride but also represents the pinnacle of luxury on the iconic Murray River.

Scheduled for a grand launch in June 2025, the PS Australian Star will redefine river cruising, offering year-round, all-inclusive, overnight experiences with 3, 4, and 7-night itineraries along the majestic Murray River, commencing from the charming town of Echuca in Victoria. Seamlessly taking over the reins of the beloved PS Emmylou, the Australian Star will assume the helm of the existing cruise itineraries, promising a voyage that seamlessly blends tradition with opulence.

As you step onto the decks of the PS Australian Star, you enter a realm where every detail tells a tale of the river’s rich heritage and the golden age of paddle steamers. The vessel itself is a masterpiece, a floating testament to the artistry and engineering that defined an era. Immerse yourself in the symphony of steam from the authentic 1907 wood-fired steam engine and the rhythmic churning of the paddlewheel as we embark on a leisurely voyage along the winding waters of the Murray River.

Named in honour of Australia’s celestial Southern Cross, the Australian Star invites you to explore its opulent interiors, where each cabin and lounge exudes an air of refinement. From the Hopwood Lounge & Bar, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of Echuca’s founder, to the Randell Dining Room, paying homage to the pioneering journey of William Randell, every space aboard is a chapter in a captivating narrative that unfolds with every river bend.

Boasting 19 plush and modern staterooms, each opening to a deck and featuring an ensuite, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury linen, and a TV entertainment system, the Australian Star ensures a luxurious retreat for every traveler. Moreover, its ever-changing river views provide a constant reminder of the beauty that surrounds.

As the PS Australian Star prepares to grace the waters, it beckons you to join a voyage where tradition meets modernity, and luxury becomes an art form. Welcome aboard the PS Australian Star, where history and luxury converge for an unforgettable riverine experience.

Step aboard our iconic paddlesteamers, now including the exquisite PS Australian Star available from June 2025, for an elegant journey back in time along the winding Murray River. Bask in breathtaking views of landscapes and wildlife on a multi-day 3, 4 or 7 night voyage – each promises an unforgettable experience.

Our dedicated crew is poised to cater to your desires, whether it’s a leisurely river trip or a special event. As pioneers of Echuca’s river cruising, we take pride in sharing the river’s stories and preserving its rich heritage. Join us for an adventure through history, guided by passionate storytellers, leaving you with cherished memories.