It’s not long to go until we welcome the new paddlesteamer, Australian Star, later this spring, and already, we’ve got another luxurious vessel to look forward to. The new $7.75 million paddlesteamer, known as Australian Sky, will offer journeys between Mildura and Adelaide. It’s the first overnight cruise vessel to homeport in Mildura in decades, and it will be built by Murray River Paddlesteamers. Australian Sky will be ready to set sail in late 2027.
Australian Sky
The 19-cabin vessel will be the only five-star paddlesteamer based in Victoria’s northwest, and it will offer trips ranging from three to 11 nights between Mildura and Adelaide. It will be the sister ship to the Echuca-based Australian Star and the second of its kind in Australia. It takes its name from Mildura’s expansive golden skies and starry evenings.
The Australian Sky will carry 38 guests. Although it will be modelled on traditional paddlesteamers, it will also feature contemporary amenities, such as a fine dining venue, a panoramic bar, lounge and viewing deck, outdoor relaxation areas and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi. The staterooms will all have ensuites, with air-conditioning and private deck access for dreamy river views. The ship will be powered by a refurbished wood-fired steam engine/diesel-electric engine.
As for the itinerary, you can expect three, four and seven-night cruises between Mildura and Wentworth in New South Wales during spring, summer and autumn. In winter, look forward to the longest river cruises ever offered on the Murray, with 11-night trips between Mildura and Mannum near Adelaide.
Along the way, there will be guided shore excursions to wineries, national parks, historic homesteads, Indigenous cultural sites and country towns. There will also be outback experiences such as a riverside campfire and dinner in a shearing shed.
Fares will be all-inclusive, covering meals, shore excursions, transfers, gratuities, Wi-Fi and selected drinks.
Bookings are expected to open in mid-2026. In the meantime, you could see what the Australian Star has to offer from Echuca, or check out the PS Emmylou, another vessel from Murray River Paddlesteamers. Learn more here.