Discover the Murray River Aboard PS Australian Star
Come along to our APT Travel Informatiom Session on 27 August, 2026 to find out more. Details here
It's Authentic. It's Australian. It's APT!
There is something wonderfully peaceful about travelling along the Murray River. Towering river red gums line the banks, native birds move through the wetlands and historic towns reveal stories shaped by generations of life on Australia’s longest river.
APT’s Murray River cruises offer a relaxing way to experience this distinctly Australian landscape aboard PS Australian Star, a luxury paddlesteamer launched in 2025. Carrying no more than 38 guests, the vessel combines the character of traditional river cruising with the comforts of a contemporary floating hotel.
A Modern Paddlesteamer with a Proud River Heritage
PS Australian Star has been designed especially for the Murray River and features just 19 luxury staterooms, creating an intimate and personalised atmosphere aboard.
Guests can relax in the panoramic Hopwood Lounge, enjoy the passing scenery from outdoor seating areas and gather in the Randell Dining Room for fresh, locally inspired meals. With fewer guests aboard, there is time to settle into the gentle rhythm of the river and enjoy attentive service throughout the journey.
More Than a Cruise
A journey along the Murray is about much more than the scenery. It is an opportunity to understand the people, industries and communities that have shaped the region.
Depending on the itinerary, experiences may include visits to Echuca, Rochester, Colbinabbin and historic Perricoota Station, along with regional wineries, silo art, heritage attractions and locally guided touring. APT’s curated shore excursions are designed to bring the Murray’s history, food and rural character to life.
One day may be spent tasting wine and meeting local producers, while another could include walking through a country town, learning about paddle-steamer history or dining beside the river beneath an open sky.
All-Inclusive Luxury on the Murray
APT’s Murray River journeys include locally inspired dining, a wide selection of beverages aboard the ship and the guidance of an experienced APT Cruise Director.
With the practical details taken care of, guests can simply enjoy the experience, whether that means sharing a meal with fellow travellers, watching the riverbanks drift past from the lounge or stepping ashore to explore another part of regional Australia.
Choose Your Murray River Journey
Murray River Escape
This five-day Melbourne-return journey includes four nights aboard PS Australian Star, all meals, onboard beverages and experiences across three destinations.
It is an ideal introduction to Murray River cruising for travellers seeking a shorter Australian escape without compromising on comfort or included experiences.
Retreat to the Murray
The eight-day Retreat to the Murray provides more time to explore the river and its surrounding communities.
The Melbourne-return itinerary combines luxury cruising with regional touring, local wine experiences, historic sites, art and relaxed evenings aboard the ship. With only 38 guests, it offers a comfortable and unhurried way to appreciate the landscapes and stories of the Murray River region.
Is a Murray River Cruise Right for You?
Aboard PS Australian Star, the journey is as important as each destination. This style of holiday may particularly appeal to travellers who enjoy:
Small-ship cruising with a relaxed atmosphere
Australian history and regional communities
Local food, wine and produce
Gentle sightseeing rather than a rushed itinerary
Comfortable travel with meals, touring and many inclusions arranged
Experience One of Australia’s Great River Journeys
A Murray River cruise offers the chance to slow down and reconnect with the landscapes, stories and hospitality found in our own backyard.
From the sound of the paddlesteamer moving through the water to evenings spent dining beside the river, PS Australian Star brings together heritage, contemporary comfort and a genuinely Australian sense of place.
Speak with the Holiday World team about current departure dates, cabin availability and the Murray River itinerary that would best suit your travel plans.
Itineraries, inclusions, pricing and availability are subject to change. Current offers should be confirmed at the time of enquiry.
