The Murray’s largest paddle steamer is coming in 2026, offering longer and more luxurious stays on the mighty river.
Birdcalls, the chirps of cicadas, the lapping of river currents and the gentle hum of a paddle steamer as it gently rolls down the river: these are the iconic sounds of the Murray River region. And thanks to the upcoming launch of PS Australian Star, it’s about to get a whole lot bigger (and more luxurious) – blending the charm of a bygone era with modern comforts.
Spend one to seven nights on board the PS Australian Star.
With its inaugural cruise set for February, the PS Australian Star will not only be the largest paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere, but also Australia’s first five-star overnight riverboat and the only wood-fired, five-star, accommodated paddle steamer in the world.
Once onboard (with a maximum of just 38 guests at a time), don’t let the old-world decor fool you. All modern comforts are accounted for, like free wi-fi, lifts and air conditioning. Plus, its heritage 1907 wood-fired steam engine will be eco-powered by red gum timber.
Soak in the beauty of the Murray River. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Discover year-round and all-inclusive cruises, and choose from one-, three-, four- or seven- night options, all departing from Echuca on the Upper Murray River.
All-inclusive means that all food is covered. Expect onboard gourmet dining with a regional focus and locally sourced ingredients, plus unlimited free barista coffee, soft drinks and tea all day and wines and beers with dinner.
It also means guests can partake in guided onshore tours to explore the Murray region – like silo art tours, wine tastings and museum visits – onboard activities and evening entertainment. Return train and coach transfers from Melbourne are also included.
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What else to do in Echuca
Further explore the historic Port of Echuca. (Image: Visit Victoria)
While paddle steamers may really be the main attraction of the Murray River, there’s plenty else to do in the region, and Echuca specifically.
After a paddle steamer, you could keep the exploration of local history going with interactive displays sharing the trade history at Port of Echuca . Join a guided tour if you really want to dive in.
Discover plenty of trails to explore the region, either on foot or by bike. Like the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail , winding through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Or stay in your car and follow the Silo Art Trail , which has transformed the region’s silos into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad.
Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)
And don’t sleep on the booming food and drink scene in town. From rooftop bars with town views – like Bar Lee – to funky cocktail bars – like Paradise Bar – after-boating tipples are covered. Or, find anything from a candlelit dinner to coffee in the sunshine at places like Opa (authentic Greek fare), The Mill (global street food to classic dinner and dessert options), Monkee and Co (Asian-fusion) and Watson St Pavilion (the locals’ go-to for a morning coffee).
The details
Where: The Upper Murray River from Echuca. When: From February 2026. Bookings open now. Cruise options: Overnight, three-, four- and seven-night cruises. Price: From $ Website: murrayriverpaddlesteamers.com.au
Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's. After graduating a BA of Communication from University of Technology Sydney, she has been writing about her travels (and more) professionally for over 10 years for titles like AWOL, News.com.au, Pedestrian.TV, Body + Soul and Punkee. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.
The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.
Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.
Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.
Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.
1. Practice mindfulness
Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.
Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.
If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.
2. Indulge in self-care
Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)
While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.
Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.
For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.
3. Embrace nature
Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.
Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?
To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.
Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.
4. Prioritise Rest
Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.
Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.
For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.
For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.
5. Engage Your Senses
Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.
For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.
If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.
6. Connect and reconnect
Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)
Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.
Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.
Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.
For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.
