Arrive in Melbourne and board your train at Southern Cross station 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.

A perfect replica of a vintage paddle steamer, 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. Upon arrival, enjoy a gourmet Australian barbecue under the stars, followed by a live music performance.

Begin your day with breakfast served on the deck of the PS Emmylou as the paddle steamer glides leisurely toward your next stop: Perricoota Station. Take in the ever-changing scenery of the Murray River — the towering river red gums, sunlight shimmering on the water, and perhaps even the fleeting sight of a kangaroo bounding beyond the tree line. Listen for the distinctive laugh of a kookaburra, blending with the gentle splash of the paddle steamer’s paddles.

Upon arrival at Perricoota Station, join your skipper for a guided tour of the historic farm, homestead, and its beautifully maintained gardens. Later, return to the PS Emmylou for a gourmet dinner prepared by your onboard chef, shared in the company of your fellow travellers. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a special documentary screening showcasing the rich history of the Murray River’s communities and its legendary paddle steamers. Before retreating to your cabin, step outside to take in the vast, star-filled sky and the tranquil hush of the Australian bush.

By this point in your journey, you will have well and truly adjusted to the unhurried, relaxed pace of life along the Murray River. Your paddle steamer spends the day travelling back upriver towards Echuca. Sit out on deck enjoying the views while swapping tales with your fellow cruisers, reading a book, or sipping a barista-made coffee and settling into one of the many cosy nooks hidden throughout the vessel. Dinner is a celebration of local flavours and produce, served on board this evening before the PS Emmylou continues to Deep Creek Marina, where your vessel will moor overnight.

This morning, wake to the sound of native bird song as your paddle steamer gently rumbles to life. Enjoy breakfast on board before a half-day exploration of Echuca, a charming rural town. After, enjoy a cruise aboard the 110-year-old PS Canberra, where you’ll savour morning tea on board. Back aboard the PS Emmylou, keep on the lookout for emus or wallabies as your vessel cruises past the Port of Echuca Wharf, once home to over 100 paddle steamers.

If an early rise appeals to you, enjoy a riverside stroll before breakfast. After one last delicious meal on board, farewell the PS Emmylou for the final time and board a train for your return journey to Melbourne airport, where your unforgettable holiday comes to an end.