Murray Cruises halted
AUSTRALIAN Paddlesteamers Director Craig Burgess has sent a letter to state Ministers in NSW pleading for an exemption to new health orders, which prevent the company from operating its return services from Echuca, Victoria on the Murray River.
The cruise, which ventures into New South Wales before returning to Victoria, has been ruled out due to the recent border closure between the two states, despite the fact passengers at no time alight from the ship.
Murray Regional Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Mark Francis is working with government officials on an exemption for commercial operations along the River, with Australian Paddlesteamers’ future potentially at threat if it cannot operate in its Sep tourist season.
“Current NSW health orders were recently updated to not allow our business to operate on the Murray River from Echuca... these orders have been made by NSW Police and go against the advice provided by NSW Maritime,” the letter said.
“Passengers boarding from Victoria cannot leave the vessel at any point and therefore cannot enter NSW land.
“Commercial operations therefore create no additional health risk to NSW residents.
The letter, seen by Cruise Weekly, also highlights the strict hygiene practices in place at Australian Paddlesteamers, such as the open-air nature of the vessels, contract tracing, an online-only booking system and reduced capacity.
Guests are also required to utilise hand sanitiser stations prior to boarding, comply with social distancing requirements of 1.5 metres at all times, and observe floor markings when moving around the boat.
There will also be no food or beverages available on board, with the cruise encouraging Victorians to visit Echuca to support local businesses and accommodation providers during a devastating nine months for regional tourism.
The border closure has been ruinous for businesses such as Australian Paddlesteamers, which tomorrow will see the departure of a sold-out four-night charter of Emmylou by APT’s Botanica World Discoveries brand, with the Sep date also almost sold out.