Murray River Paddlesteamer Cruises for the Travel Trade

PS Emmylou

Overnight paddlesteamer cruises on the Murray River from Echuca, Victoria – aboard a genuine wood-fired steamer with a 1906 engine, deluxe cabins, chef-prepared regional dining, and onshore touring through historic river country. A distinctive Australian experience for travel agents packaging heritage touring, FIT itineraries, and incentive programmes that need something clients won’t forget.

About This Experience

The Murray River, Echuca, Victoria

Echuca was once Australia’s largest inland port. Over 100 paddlesteamers worked these waters during the riverboat era, hauling wool, timber, and supplies along the Murray and its tributaries. That history is still visible – in the restored wharf precinct, in the red gum forests lining the banks, and in the PS Emmylou herself, a genuine wood-fired paddlesteamer fitted with a 1906 steam engine that still powers her today.

Murray River Paddlesteamers operates overnight cruises from Echuca ranging from 2 to 6 nights. The flagship is the 6 Night All the Rivers Run Cruise, which traces the route made famous by Nancy Cato’s novel and the 1984 television adaptation – in which PS Emmylou starred as PS Providence. Cruises travel both upstream and downstream from Echuca through towering river red gum country, with onshore tours to wineries, heritage sites, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Barmah Wetlands, and the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement. Deluxe air-conditioned cabins with private ensuites, chef-prepared meals using seasonal local produce, and complimentary wine and beer at dinner. This is slow, immersive Australian travel at its best.

  • 2, 3, 4, and 6-night cruise options departing from Echuca, Victoria
  • Genuine wood-fired paddlesteamer with 1906 steam engine
  • Deluxe air-conditioned cabins with private ensuites, plus the Emmylou Suite
  • All-inclusive – chef-prepared meals, wine and beer at dinner, onshore touring
  • Ideal for heritage-focused FIT itineraries, couples, and small incentive groups
A serene riverside scene at golden hour showing the Murray River with lush green vegetation lining both banks, viewed from a covered deck or balcony of what appears to be a river cruise vessel. The golden sunlight reflects across the calm water, creating a peaceful atmosphere ideal for river cruise travel.

FEATURED ITINERARY

6 Night All the Rivers Run Cruise – Day by Day

Monday – Departing Echuca Downriver

PS Emmylou departs Echuca in the afternoon. Guests are welcomed aboard with freshly made Australian scones, jam and cream, tea and coffee. There’s time to settle in, explore the vessel, and chat with the Engineer and Skipper in the wheelhouse about the rich history of the Murray and the boat herself.

As the sun drops behind the red gums, it’s time for an evening cocktail before the chef-prepared welcome dinner. The overnight mooring is at Perricoota Station – first settled by James Maiden in 1843 and famous as the filming location for the television adaptation of “All the Rivers Run,” where PS Emmylou was renamed PS Providence.

After dinner, the first of four movie nights begins with a screening of the mini-series, reliving the struggles of Philadelphia Gordon played by Sigrid Thornton.

Trade tip: Complimentary transfers are available from local Echuca hotels and the Echuca train station. Optional transfers from Melbourne and Bendigo can also be arranged – worth noting for international clients arriving without a hire car.

A beautifully illuminated multi-level houseboat named Emmylou glows warmly against the twilight sky, its reflection perfectly mirrored in the still, dark waters below. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees along a serene riverbank, the vessel showcases modern architecture with multiple decks, large windows, and outdoor living spaces.

Tuesday – Barmah Eco Cruise & St Anne’s Winery

The morning begins with a half-day excursion to the small town of Barmah. Guests board a guided eco cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Barmah Wetlands – the world’s longest strand of river red gum forest. It’s a chance to get close to Australian wildlife and birdlife in a genuinely pristine natural setting. Quiet and unhurried.

A riverside picnic lunch follows, then a visit to St Anne’s Winery for a cellar door tour with the owners. The wines here are excellent and largely unknown outside the region – your clients get to taste table and fortified wines that they simply won’t find in their home markets.

Back at Perricoota Station, a guided walking tour takes in the historic buildings and gardens scattered with old date palms. PS Emmylou then continues downstream towards Torrumbarry Weir.

Trade tip: The Barmah Wetlands eco cruise is a standout for nature-focused travellers. The World Heritage listing gives it real credibility, and the small-boat format means guests are right among the birdlife. Pairs well with Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island wildlife for clients building a Victorian nature itinerary.

istock-1793712685.jpg

Wednesday – Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement & Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum

A full day onshore tour. First stop is Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, where guests view a restored Catalina PBY5 Flying Boat – the type used as patrol bombers during World War II. The original underground communications bunker is open, and a short video explains the history of the secret wartime depot. Most international visitors have no idea this exists.

Then on to Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement. It’s an immaculately preserved recreation of a rural settlement from over a century ago – buildings, memorabilia, and the PS Gem, once the most impressive passenger paddlesteamer on the river. Guests board PS Pyap for a cruise on the Murray before returning to Torrumbarry Weir.

That evening, a guided walk across the weir takes in the Interpretive Centre, which explains the Murray Darling Basin and the lock system dating back to 1923. Dinner overlooking the weir. Then movie night.

Trade tip: This day delivers unexpected depth. The WWII history at Lake Boga surprises everyone, and Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement gives international travellers real context for Australia’s inland heritage. Strong content for history-minded clients and educational groups.

istock-1202871605.jpg

Thursday – Restdown Winery & Wetlands Walk

PS Emmylou cruises upstream towards Perricoota Station in the morning. Guests then depart for a half-day onshore tour to Restdown Winery – producers of fine organic wines and Hereford beef. The highlight is a guided 1.4-kilometre wetlands walking trail of early Aboriginal significance with the owners, followed by a gourmet lunch of local produce with complimentary wine tastings.

Back at Perricoota Station, the journey continues downstream. Dinner is served as PS Emmylou cruises towards the overnight mooring at Deep Creek Marina.

Trade tip: The combination of organic winemaking, wetlands ecology, and Aboriginal heritage in a single visit gives this stop real substance. It’s also a relaxed, personal experience – your clients are with the property owners, not on a mass tourism conveyor belt.

The Emmylou, a historic paddle steamer, navigates the Murray River near Echuca, Australia, with passengers enjoying views from multiple decks. The vessel features a distinctive cream and orange exterior with a tall smokestack, set against a backdrop of eucalyptus trees lining the riverbank.

Friday – Full Day Cruising & Signature Grand Dining

A full day on the water. PS Emmylou cruises towards the Layfield Lane mooring, and this is the day that captures the essence of river travel. Breakfast on deck. A book. The sound of kookaburras. Galahs playing in the distance. Red gums reflected in still water.

Guests are welcome to try their hand at steering the boat with the Skipper, or head below to learn how the 1906 steam engine works with the Engineer. There’s no schedule to keep.

Tonight is the signature Grand Dining – a gourmet Australian BBQ served riverside. Pacdon Park smallgoods for entree, then the main event at a communal table under the Southern Cross, lit by candles. Campfire yarns afterwards. This is the evening clients remember.

Trade tip: Grand Dining is the hero moment of this cruise. The riverside setting, the stars, the campfire – it photographs beautifully and it sells the experience better than any description. Make sure your clients know about it at the time of booking.

The Emmylou, a historic paddle steamer, navigates the Murray River near Echuca, Australia, with passengers enjoying views from multiple decks. The vessel features a distinctive cream and orange exterior with a tall smokestack, set against a backdrop of eucalyptus trees lining the riverbank.

Saturday – Echuca Heritage Tour & Upper River

A fully narrated tour of Echuca fills the afternoon – covering the town’s history as the centre of Australia’s inland trade and its thriving port. Guests visit historical sites and learn about a river town that was, for a time, one of the most important commercial centres in the colony.

The afternoon and evening are spent cruising upstream from Echuca, exploring the upper river. Dinner as the sun sets. Then the final special presentation of All the Rivers Run.

Overnight at Morrisons Mooring.

Trade tip: The Echuca heritage tour provides useful context that ties the whole cruise together. International clients especially benefit from understanding the scale of river commerce in the 1800s – it helps them appreciate why the paddlesteamer tradition matters.

A classic paddlewheel riverboat with cream and black hull moored at the historic Echuca Wharf on the Murray River, flanked by traditional timber loading structures and eucalyptus trees. The vessel features multiple decks with period architecture reminiscent of 19th-century river steamers.

Sunday – Farewell at the Port of Echuca

Early risers can enjoy a lagoon boardwalk above Horseshoe Lagoon before breakfast. PS Emmylou then makes her way to the Port of Echuca, where guests reluctantly disembark.

Trade tip: We recommend building at least half a day in Echuca post-cruise. The historic port precinct, working paddlesteamers, and the town itself are worth exploring on foot. From Echuca, clients can connect easily to Melbourne (around 2.5 hours by road), Bendigo, or the Yarra Valley. This cruise sits naturally within a broader Victorian touring itinerary – or as a distinctive inland extension for clients doing the Sydney-Melbourne corridor.

An aerial view of a multi-deck river cruise ship moored at a sandy riverbank landing with passengers gathered on shore surrounded by golden-lit eucalyptus trees. The vessel features a distinctive white and cream livery with multiple deck levels, connected to the landing via a gangway, on a calm, mirror-like river with dramatic cliff faces visible in the background.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Inclusions & PS Emmylou

All-Inclusive Cruising

  • Onboard accommodation in deluxe air-conditioned cabins with private ensuites
  • All chef-prepared meals using fresh seasonal local produce
  • Complimentary wine and beer at dinner service
  • Espresso coffee, tea, soft drinks, and bottled water throughout
  • Four onshore guided tours (6-night cruise) including wineries and heritage sites
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the boat
  • Complimentary transfers to and from local Echuca hotels and Echuca train station

About PS Emmylou

PS Emmylou is a genuine wood-fired paddlesteamer. Not a replica, not diesel-powered with a decorative wheel bolted on the back. The 1906 steam engine is the real thing – fed by redgum logs, tended by an engineer, and driving the paddlewheel that moves the boat. You can feel the warmth from the boiler and hear the rhythmic thump of the engine throughout the vessel.

She carries a small number of guests in deluxe air-conditioned cabins, each with private ensuite. The Emmylou Suite offers additional space for those wanting something a bit special. On-board dining features seasonal local produce prepared by the chef, with regionally sourced wines. The atmosphere is intimate and genuinely relaxed.

  • Deluxe cabins across main and upper decks with private ensuites
  • Emmylou Suite available for an added touch of luxury and space
  • Open wheelhouse – guests welcome to steer with the Skipper
  • Working 1906 steam engine – guests can visit the engine room with the Engineer

Ready to Book a Murray River Paddlesteamer Cruise?

Contact our team for trade rates, cabin availability across 2, 3, 4, and 6-night departures, and help packaging the Murray River into your clients’ Australian itineraries. We arrange transfers from Melbourne and Bendigo, onward connections, and can combine this with our full range of Victorian and Australian touring product.

Frequently Asked Questions

PS Emmylou offers 2, 3, 4, and 6-night overnight cruises departing from Echuca. The 3-night Murray River Discovery Cruise covers over 160 kilometres of the upper Murray with one onshore tour, the Barmah Wetlands eco cruise, and the signature Grand Dining experience. The 4-night Murray River Explorer Cruise adds a second onshore tour and more time on the water. The 6-night All the Rivers Run Cruise is the flagship – it includes four onshore tours, visits to Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, Barmah Wetlands, local wineries, and the Echuca heritage tour. All cruises depart on Mondays. We recommend the longer options for international clients who want the full experience, though the 3-night works well as part of a packed Victorian itinerary.
PS Emmylou offers several cabin categories across the main and upper decks. Main Deck Queen Cabins and Upper Deck options (Twin, Double, and Queen configurations) all feature air-conditioning and private ensuites. The Emmylou Queen Suite provides additional space and luxury for clients wanting something extra. All cabins are deluxe and purpose-fitted – this is a heritage vessel, so the scale is intimate rather than grand. Contact us for specific cabin layouts and availability for your departure dates.
Echuca is approximately 2.5 hours by road from Melbourne, making it an easy addition to a Victorian touring itinerary. Complimentary transfers are provided to and from local Echuca hotels and the Echuca train station. Optional transfers from Melbourne and Bendigo can also be arranged. For international clients, we typically recommend building the Murray River cruise into a self-drive itinerary or arranging private transfers as part of a broader FIT package. The route from Melbourne passes through attractive countryside and can include stops in Heathcote or Bendigo.
PS Emmylou’s intimate size makes it well-suited for small incentive groups and exclusive charters. The signature Grand Dining experience – a gourmet Australian BBQ served riverside under the stars with a campfire – is a natural centrepiece for corporate reward programmes. The combination of heritage, wine country touring, and the uniqueness of a genuine paddlesteamer cruise creates strong “money can’t buy” appeal. For larger groups, we can coordinate multiple departure dates or combine paddlesteamer cruising with other Victorian and Australian experiences. Contact us at enquiries@aabh.com.au to discuss group options.
The Murray River paddlesteamer experience pairs naturally with a range of Victorian and Australian touring. Common combinations include the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island wildlife, the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula wine regions, goldfields heritage in Bendigo and Ballarat, and of course Melbourne itself. For clients doing the Sydney-Melbourne corridor, a Murray River cruise adds distinctive inland content that breaks up the coastal focus. We build complete Australian itineraries for the travel trade – accommodation, touring, transfers, and domestic flights. The Murray River works particularly well for clients seeking authentic Australian heritage experiences beyond the usual highlights.
A serene scene on the Murray River featuring a houseboat cruising past the dramatic ochre and white striped cliffs of Headings Cliff in South Australia. The landscape showcases striking geological formations, native eucalyptus trees lining the riverbank, and calm reflective waters, exemplifying the natural beauty and recreational appeal of Australia's iconic river system.
A historic paddle steamer named 'Pride of the Murray' navigates the murky waters of the Murray River in Echuca, Australia, surrounded by tall eucalyptus trees lining the riverbank. The vessel features a distinctive yellow upper deck, red-brown lower sections, and displays the Australian flag, characteristic of traditional Australian river cruise tourism.
A serene landscape of the Murray River at golden hour, with gum trees lining the bank and their silhouettes perfectly mirrored in the still water. The sky displays warm pink and blue tones characteristic of an Australian sunset, creating a tranquil scene in the Riverland region.
A stunning panoramic view of the Murray River in South Australia, featuring dramatic golden-orange limestone cliffs on the left side overlooking the calm, mirror-like river waters. Lush green vegetation lines both banks of the river as it meanders through the landscape, with a beautiful blue sky and white clouds reflected perfectly in the water.
The Emmylou, a historic paddle steamer, navigates the Murray River near Echuca, Australia, with passengers enjoying views from multiple decks. The vessel features a distinctive cream and orange exterior with a tall smokestack, set against a backdrop of eucalyptus trees lining the riverbank.
A serene landscape photograph capturing the Murray River at golden hour, with warm orange sunlight illuminating the red sandstone cliffs and their mirror-like reflections in the still water. A gnarled eucalyptus tree stands on the left bank, silhouetted against the luminous sky.
A distinctive multi-deck riverboat with cream and orange/red coloring navigates a serene river lined with native eucalyptus trees and natural bushland. The vessel features multiple outdoor decks, railings, and what appears to be an Australian flag, characteristic of river cruise operations in inland Australia.
A charming paddle-wheeler riverboat named Emmylou moored along the Murray River in Australia, featuring a distinctive yellow and cream-colored two-story design with open deck areas. The vessel is anchored in shallow water surrounded by native eucalyptus trees and arid landscape under clear blue skies.
An aerial drone perspective of the Murray River winding through dense eucalyptus forests at dusk, with expansive agricultural plains visible in the distance under a dramatic golden sunset sky. The river's reflective surface creates a striking contrast against the rich green forest canopy.
A classic multi-deck paddlewheel riverboat with cream and black livery cruises along the Murray River in Australia, surrounded by eucalyptus forests and calm green waters under clear skies.
The authentic paddle steamer Emmylou, a yellow and black historic riverboat, operates on the Murray River near Echuca, Australia, surrounded by tall eucalyptus trees. This vintage vessel represents classic Australian river cruising heritage with its distinctive multi-deck design and working paddle wheel.
A beautifully illuminated multi-level houseboat named Emmylou glows warmly against the twilight sky, its reflection perfectly mirrored in the still, dark waters below. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees along a serene riverbank, the vessel showcases modern architecture with multiple decks, large windows, and outdoor living spaces.
A classic paddle-wheel riverboat with cream and black hull docked at a historic wharf on the Murray River in Echuca, Australia. The scene includes traditional riverside infrastructure with timber loading facilities and eucalyptus trees, capturing the heritage character of this iconic river port destination.
An overhead view of a contemporary cruise ship cabin featuring a queen-sized bed with white linens, sage green accent wall, dark wood cabinetry with decorative botanical artwork, and an ensuite bathroom visible on the right. The compact but well-appointed space exemplifies modern cruise ship interior design with neutral tones and efficient use of space.
An overhead architectural rendering of a modern cruise ship cabin featuring two single beds positioned side-by-side on a green carpeted floor, dark wood furnishings with decorative blue-patterned upholstery, and an ensuite bathroom visible through an open doorway. The compact cabin design demonstrates efficient use of space typical of contemporary river cruise accommodations.
An overhead view of a luxurious king suite cabin aboard a Murray River cruise vessel, featuring a bed with white linens, dark carpet flooring, integrated storage and lighting, and an ensuite bathroom visible on the right. The modern design combines wood accents with contemporary furnishings and natural light from large windows.
A modern, elegantly designed queen cabin aboard a Murray River cruise vessel, featuring warm wood cabinetry, a botanical-patterned headboard panel, neutral bedding with decorative pillows, and a private balcony with river views. The cabin showcases contemporary hospitality design with integrated storage, soft lighting, and a sophisticated color palette of creams, greens, and warm wood tones.
A modern, elegantly appointed queen suite aboard a Murray River cruise vessel, featuring a spacious bed with white striped linens, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river landscape, contemporary wood cabinetry with decorative panels, ambient lighting, and a comfortable seating area. The suite exemplifies contemporary cruise accommodation design with natural light and sophisticated furnishings.
A luxurious modern king suite aboard a Murray River cruise vessel, featuring a spacious bed with white striped bedding, floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto a private balcony overlooking the river and eucalyptus trees, contemporary furnishings including a cream accent chair, wall-mounted flat-screen TV, and elegant neutral décor throughout.
A scenic aerial view of a traditional tour boat navigating through winding mangrove waterways near Cairns, Queensland. The lush green mangrove forest is bordered by a meandering river that opens to a coastal bay with distant mountains and a charming port town visible in the background.
A stunning twilight view of Brisbane's modern city skyline reflecting in the Brisbane River, featuring the iconic Story Bridge, contemporary high-rise buildings illuminated against a vibrant purple and blue sky, with historic riverside landmarks in the foreground including a lighthouse and heritage structures.

WHY TRAVEL AGENTS CHOOSE

Australia and Beyond Holidays

  • Proven Local Expertise

    Led by industry veterans with senior experience at Qantas Holidays and Tour East Australia, and trusted by 500+ global travel agents with dedicated market support teams across Australia, India, Japan, and the Middle East.

  • Fast, Smart Itineraries

    Our HELiO booking platform delivers instant quotes and confirmations, streamlining the booking process for travel professionals.

  • Built For B2B Partners

    We work exclusively with travel trade partners, offering competitive net rates, marketing support, and dedicated account management.

  • Truly Tailor-Made Travel

    From FIT bookings to large-scale incentive groups, we craft bespoke itineraries that perfectly match your clients’ expectations.