Paddlesteamer boats are becoming slowly rarer in the Murray River (or River Murray, depending on which state you're from).
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But one tourism provider, Murray River Paddlesteamers, has announced it will build one, at a cost of $6.75 million, and it will offer year-round, all-inclusive, overnight cruises from the operator's base at Echuca, Victoria.
To measure 35m, the 40-guest vessel, temporarily named PS Australian Star, will be the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star accommodated vessel of its type in the world.
It is expected to make its debut journey along the Murray in late 2024 and has been supported with $2.25 million in funding by the Victorian Government's Regional Tourism Investment Fund, which has brought the project forward by three years.
The boat will have a hybrid of diesel power and a refurbished 1907 Richard Garrett and Sons wood-fired steam engine. It will comprise 20 luxury cabins, a fine-dining restaurant, panoramic lounge, function area, bars and outside relaxation space.
A competition to officially name the boat will be announced in due course.
The new boat will be the third in Murray River Paddlesteamers' fleet based in Echuca, joining PS Emmylou and PS Canberra.
The company had previously also had the Pride of the Murray, which moved to Queensland in June.
Director Craig Burgess said PS Australian Star would prove a "game-changing" visitor experience that would meet surging demand for premium, overnight river cruises.
"Australians love cruising, and they love the Murray River but they want comfort and facilities akin to those on European rivers," he said.
"Demand for overnight cruises on the Murray is at record levels so as a hero visitor drawcard, PS Australian Star will help tap that demand, boost the local economy, create new jobs and cater for the most discerning of visitors, attracting new domestic and international visitors to our region for the first time".
Mr Burgess said the new, bigger and more luxurious vessel, which will be built in Mildura, on the banks of the Murray River using local contractors, trades and suppliers, will have strong appeal to charter groups and also national tour companies seeking a larger capacity river vessel for their guests.
He said when PS Australian Star debuts in late 2024, PS Emmylou would focus on the booming business for day sightseeing, lunch and dinner cruises and overnight charters, alongside fleet mate, PS Canberra.
Cruise dates, itineraries and special launch fares are expected to be released in mid-2023.
Phone (03) 5482-5244 or click here for more information.
