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 marks the final day of your unforgettable three-night cruise aboard PS Emmylou, as we journey upstream from Deep Creek Marina back to the historic Port of Echuca.
Settle in for a relaxing full day of cruising, taking in the ever-changing Murray River scenery. As we glide gently along the river, keep an eye out for the abundant local wildlife—kangaroos, birdlife, and riverbank activity—best enjoyed from the deck or saloon as you savour a leisurely lunch served on board.
The return journey offers a peaceful opportunity to reflect on your time aboard, with the river revealing new perspectives as we travel upstream toward Echuca.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner while cruising into the iconic Port of Echuca, where the charm of the historic wharf comes to life. Upon arrival, the celebrations continue with a fun and social poetry and quiz night—an enjoyable way to conclude your river experience alongside fellow travellers.
It’s the perfect finale to your Murray River journey, combining relaxation, scenery, and a touch of friendly competition to end your cruise on a high note.
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.
Our courtesy coach transfer will return you comfortably to our Car parking facility and Echuca Train Station. 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.