The APT Travel Group has acquired a majority stake in Echuca-based Murray River Paddlesteamers, operator of three wood-fired vessels on the Murray, the company announced.
The APT Travel Group has taken a majority stake in Murray River Paddlesteamers, bringing one of Australia’s most distinctive inland waterway experiences into a portfolio that already spans river cruising, ocean voyages and land touring.
The Victorian operator runs three vessels from Echuca: the century-old PS Canberra, restored to steam in 2003; PS Emmylou, billed as the world’s only wood-fired paddlesteamer offering overnight cruises; and PS Australian Star, described as Australia’s first five-star paddlesteamer, due to begin operating later this year.
Director Craig Burgess continues to lead the business under APT’s backing, with both parties framing the deal as a long-term play to grow river cruising on the Murray while preserving the vessels’ heritage.
The move follows CEO David Cox’s plans to launch a second riverboat on the Murray, which he outlined to Karryon amid record sales.
What it adds to the APT stable
Founded in 1927, The APT Travel Group has built a portfolio that includes APT, Travelmarvel, Botanica World Discoveries, Captain’s Choice and Antarctica Flights, alongside its luxury Kimberley lodge operations. The paddlesteamers add a new mode of travel to that mix and reinforce APT’s domestic positioning as it approaches its 100th year in 2027.
APT Travel Group CEO David Cox said the acquisition was a natural fit for a company nearing its centenary.
“Looking to the future with a nod to the past, investing in Australian local tourism and giving our guests access to experiences that are truly one of a kind,” he said.
“The Murray River is woven into this country’s history, and for us to now be custodians of vessels that keep that history alive is something we’re very proud of.
“After nearly a hundred years of delivering exceptional experiences to travellers around the world, we can’t wait to bring more of that same standard to our own backyard.”
That centenary milestone is also being marked with a once-only 100-day world tour from Melbourne in 2027, priced from AU$100,000 per person.
Why the Murray River matters
The Murray holds a place in Australia’s cultural and commercial history.
At its trading peak, the Port of Echuca hosted more than 240 river vessels, making it the largest inland port in the country.
Today its paddlesteamers draw both domestic and international visitors, giving the trade a heritage product that sits within reach of Melbourne for short breaks and add-on touring.
Burgess said the partnership marked a new chapter for the business.
“For more than two decades, Murray River Paddlesteamers has been dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of the Murray River,” he stated.
“The APT Travel Group provides the resources, expertise and long-term vision to secure that legacy for future generations.
“APT shares our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and investing in Australian tourism. Together, we will continue to grow river cruising on the Murray while maintaining the authenticity and heritage that make these vessels so special.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: With international demand still soaking up much of the cruise market, a heritage Murray River product under an established brand gives advisors a domestic short-break option that’s easy to bundle with touring. The five-star PS Australian Star, due later this year, is the one to watch for clients wanting something genuinely different in their own backyard.
