Arrive in Melbourne, board your train at Southern Cross station and travel to the rural town of Echuca in northern Victoria. This is where you’ll board the PS Emmylou, your floating home for the next four nights. The moment you step aboard, be transported to the golden age of paddle steamer travel, where life moved at a slower pace and travel wasn’t simply about the destination, but the journey itself. Tonight, you'll enjoy a special Insider Experience.

A perfect replica of a vintage paddle steamer, PS Emmylou is powered by its original 1906 Marshall, Sons and Co steam engine. Its gleaming timber cladding and authentic wheelhouse evoke a bygone era, and guests are welcome to step inside and chat with the skipper. The eight elegant onboard cabins feature fine linens, private en suites, and direct deck access — perfect for pausing to watch serene river scenes drift by. Set off at 4pm this afternoon for Layfield Lane, where you’ll spend your time on board unwinding with a good book or simply soaking in the ever-changing scenery of the Upper Murray River. At Layfield Lane, enjoy a gourmet Australian barbecue under the stars, followed by a live music performance.

Insider Experience – Riverside Barbecue Experience

Dine under the Southern constellations with a riverside barbecue at Layfield Lane. This gourmet feast sets the mood for an evening of casual conversation and live entertainment by a crackling campfire (weather dependent).

Start your morning with a delicious breakfast on the deck of PS Emmylou, then hop aboard our coach for the Henry Hopwood Town Tour. This engaging guided experience leads you through the historic centre of Echuca, where you’ll uncover the fascinating stories behind local landmarks, explore the differences between the steam era and modern times, and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique character that defines this river town today.

We then rejoin PS Emmylou for a day of cruising to your next stop, the historic Perricoota Station. Enjoy lunch on board as the Murray’s ever-changing scenery unfolds before you — majestic river red gums, sunlight dancing across the water, and perhaps even a kangaroo hopping beyond the tree line. Listen out for the laugh of a kookaburra over the rhythmic splashing of the paddle steamer.

Dock at Perricoota Station, where you'll enjoy happy hour aboard PS Emmylou before savouring a gourmet dinner with your fellow travellers, prepared by your onboard chef.

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. Enjoy the chance to meet the winemakers and savour the best of regional hospitality in a picturesque setting.

Upon returning to Perricoota Station, your Captain will guide you on a leisurely walk through the beautifully restored historic buildings and manicured riverside gardens. As evening approaches, enjoy happy hour aboard before dinner is served, as PS Emmylou cruises in the twilight towards Deep Creek Marina.

By this stage of your journey, you’ll have fully embraced the unhurried rhythm of life on the Murray River.

As your paddle steamer makes its gentle way upriver towards Echuca, savour your final full day on board exactly as you please. Settle into a quiet nook with a good book, sip a barista-made coffee on deck, swap stories with fellow travellers, or take the opportunity to chat with the engineer and discover the fascinating workings of the magnificent 1907 steam engine that powers your journey.

As evening falls, celebrate your final night on board with a beautifully prepared dinner showcasing the finest local flavours and regional produce, before PS Emmylou gracefully returns to her berth in Echuca.

As the sun rises on your final morning aboard PS Emmylou, early risers are invited to take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the serenity and birdlife one last time. After a final breakfast onboard, it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow guests, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Murray River adventure.

A complimentary coach transfer will return you to Echuca’s car parking facilities or train station, ensuring a smooth and comfortable onward journey.