Embark on a captivating 3-night Murray River cruise aboard the PS Emmylou, a remarkable wood-fired paddlesteamer that offers a journey through the heart of the Australian outback. Step back in time and indulge in the charm and romance of a bygone era as you set sail from the historic town of Echuca.
Throughout your cruise, you'll be captivated by the stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife that grace the Murray River. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos and other native species as you meander along the river's twists and turns.
Immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with exciting excursions during your journey. Explore the vast gardens and buildings of historic Perricoota Station, take a delightful walking tour, and visit a local riverside winery and a unique Heritage Farm Museum.
Savor the magic of dining under the Southern constellations with our signature riverside BBQ, complete with a river campfire and marshmallow roasting. On board the PS Emmylou, our talented chef will prepare world-class cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you choose to unwind on the sun deck with a glass of wine or relax in the cozy saloon with a good book, each moment on the paddlesteamer promises pure bliss.
At the end of each fulfilling day, retire to your beautifully appointed cabin, equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the river, knowing that more river adventures await you upon waking.
This 3-night Murray River cruise aboard the PS Emmylou offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience, seamlessly blending the luxury of modern amenities with the authenticity of a bygone era. Don't miss the chance to book your journey today and discover the enchantment of the Murray River while aboard the world's only wood-fired paddlesteamer. Prepare for a journey that will leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Your journey begins as PS Emmylou departs from Echuca, gently gliding along the mighty Murray River. Settle into life on board with a traditional afternoon Devonshire tea, served as the scenery unfolds—majestic river red gums, birdlife, and tranquil waters setting the tone for the days ahead. Spend time getting to know your fellow travellers or visit the wheelhouse for a chat with the skipper, who will share stories of Emmylou’s unique wood-fired heritage and her place in paddle steamer history. Or simply retreat to your private cabin and ease into holiday mode.
As the day draws to a close, Happy Hour begins in the saloon. Sip on a local wine or craft beer as the sky transforms into shades of gold and rose. Soon, Emmylou arrives at her Layfield Lane mooring, where a truly special evening awaits.
Enjoy a grand Australian BBQ dinner on the riverbank, with tables aglow under candlelight and stars overhead. Relax by the campfire with live entertainment and warm company, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the bush as your first day on the river comes to a magical close.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast aboard PS Emmylou before stepping ashore for a truly memorable half-day land and river tour. Your first stop is the uniquely Australian Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum—a quirky and fascinating collection showcasing over 20,000 pieces of memorabilia, from vintage beer cans and iconic advertising to historic farming equipment. It’s a lively, nostalgic look at Australian culture and ingenuity.
We then head to the award-winning St Anne’s Winery for a delicious lunch paired with tastings of their exceptional table and fortified wines. Meet the winemakers and savour the best of regional hospitality in a picturesque setting.
Return to Emmylou in the afternoon as she continues her journey downstream toward Deep Creek Marina. As evening falls, relax on board with a special screening of "Riverboats Remembered", an evocative documentary featuring archival footage that brings the rich history of the Murray River and its paddlesteamers to life.
Today, PS Emmylou sets off on a full-day cruising adventure to the impressive Torrumbarry Weir, offering a day rich in natural beauty, historic encounters, and unforgettable river moments.
Your journey begins with a mid-morning stop at the iconic Perricoota Station, a historic riverside property steeped in local heritage. Join the skipper for an engaging guided walking tour through beautifully preserved buildings and manicured grounds, gaining a deeper appreciation for the station’s role in the Murray River’s storied past.
As Emmylou continues upstream, enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the deck or saloon, with time to relax and reflect. Upon arriving at Torrumbarry Weir, you’ll disembark for a guided exploration of the weir and lock system, first constructed in 1923. Visit the Interpretive Centre, where interactive exhibits bring the Murray-Darling Basin’s complex water management and ecological significance to life.
As your final evening aboard approaches, gather for a farewell dinner hosted by the Skipper and Engineer—a memorable occasion that begins with canapés and drinks at sunset, served as golden light dances across the water. Then, enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars, soaking in the serenity of the river and the camaraderie of your fellow travellers. It’s the perfect finale to your time aboard the elegant PS Emmylou.
As the sun rises on your final morning aboard PS Emmylou, early risers are invited to take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking up the stillness of the Murray and the soft morning light—one last moment to connect with the beauty of the bush.
After a relaxed breakfast on board, it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and your fellow travellers, bringing to a close a truly unforgettable journey filled with history, nature, fine food, and warm hospitality.
A courtesy coach transfer will return you comfortably to Echuca, with drop-offs at local car parking, train station, and CBD hotels. Though your cruise may be over, the memories of life aboard Emmylou and the charm of the Murray will linger long after you return home
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In 1996, Murray River Paddlesteamers began their first cruises along the Murray River and has since expanded to include the PS PS Emmylou, updated with 8 luxury cabins with ensuites in 2018, and the hundred year old PS Canberra. After twelve months of restoration during 2002-2003, Paddle Steamer Canberra is to date, the only known vessel along the Murray River to have been converted back to steam. In March 2015 the business was purchased by brother’s Craig & Rohan Burgess together with local identity & Skipper Neil Hutchinson. The business continues to grow and expand on strong foundations which was acknowledged in July 2016 with the business winning Gold at the Regional Tourism Awards and Silver in the prestigious VTIC, Victorian Tourism Awards again in 2018.. We are dedicated to making your cruise along the Murray river memorable offering a wide range of cruising options across three traditional Paddlesteamers. Each vessel is unique and shows the dedication we have in providing an experience for our guests with all cruises short or long offering live historical commentary from the skipper. From a 1 hour cruise, lunch or dinner experience or a luxurious overnight boutique inland river cruise aboard PS Emmylou, we have something for everyone to enjoy. We are proud to continue the tradition of river cruising along Australia’s greatest waterway with our trademark level of country hospitality aboard pour authentic paddlesteamers. We hope you can join us to connect you with Australia’s inland history, geography, culture and cuisine. The Murray offers a unique destination to discover one of Australia’s beautiful regions; the riverside towns, the wildlife, and of course, a cruise on an old paddle steamer.