4 Night Murray River Explorer Cruise
Experience the beauty and history of the Murray River like never before with a 4-night Murray River cruise aboard the PS Emmylou, the world’s only wood-fired paddlesteamer doing overnight cruises. Built in 1980 and recently upgrading to include luxury cabins with ensuites, the PS Emmylou offers a truly unique way to explore the stunning Australian outback.
As you set sail from Torrumbarry you’ll be transported back in time to the era of the original paddle steamers that once plied the Murray River. The PS Emmylou’s wood-fired engines provide an authentic experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. You’ll marvel at the craftsmanship of this historic vessel, with its gleaming brass and polished woodwork.
During your 4-night journey, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and diverse wildlife. Onshore tours will have you disembarking at places of historical, geographical and cultural significance including the historic Perricoota Station and Echuca, once home to the largest fleet of paddlesteamers in the world. You will also visit Restdown Winery learning about the local Aboriginal culture on wetlands guided walk with the owners before enjoying a delicious lunch. You’ll also dine under the lights of the Southern constellations with our signature riverside dining, complete with a river campfire and roasting marshmallows.
Back onboard the PS Emmylou, you’ll enjoy delicious meals prepared by our talented chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Relax on the sun deck with a glass of wine as you take in the stunning river views. Each night, you’ll retire to your beautifully appointed cabin, complete with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Fall asleep to the gentle sound of river and wake up each morning to a new day of adventure on the Murray River.
A 4-night Murray River cruise aboard the PS Emmylou is a truly unforgettable experience, combining the luxury of modern amenities with the charm and authenticity of a bygone era. Book your journey today and discover the magic of the Murray River and the world’s only wood-fired paddlesteamer.
4-Night Murray River Cruise
Last Cabins Available for 2023
- 27th November - Upper Twin
- 4th December - Upper Twin & Double
- 11th December - 5 Cabins
Highlights
- Enjoy an owner-led guided tour of Restdown Winery & wetlands, followed by a delicious lunch.
- Take a town tour of historical Echuca sites and learn about the rich local history.
- Embark on an expedition eco-cruise aboard the Murray Explorer and enjoy a scenic lunch on the riverbanks.
- Explore the beautiful gardens of Perricoota Station, the famous filming location for All the Rivers Run.
- End your day with a memorable riverside BBQ dining experience under the stars, complete with live entertainment and a crackling campfire.
- Take in the stunning beauty of the Torrumbarry Weir and its surroundings.
- Experience all-day cruising with a historical commentary that will transport you back in time and immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the Murray River region.
Inclusions
- Complimentary return V/Line train fare from Melbourne
- Complimentary coach transfers to Toorumbarry to commence your cruise
- Luxury air-conditioned cabin with private ensuite
- All onboard meals including morning & afternoon tea
- Onshore tours
- Chef prepared Regionally-inspired meals
- Selected wine & beer with dinner service
- Espresso coffee, tea, soft drink & bottled water
WIFI throughout the boat
Prices
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Twin or Double Bed Cabins $2300pp
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Queen Bed Cabins $2360pp
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Emmylou Suite $2840pp
Optional Rail
- Start your river experience from Melbourne – Complimentary return V/Line train fares are included in your cruise fare departing from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Railway station.
- See full details and further options HERE
Deposit & Car Parking
- A deposit of $400pp is required to secure the booking, with full payment due 90 days from the cruise date
- Undercover secure car parking is available for cars at $25 per night. For larger vehicles please contact us directly
Check In Location
- Echuca Car Parking Location 3.00 pm
- Coach transfer to Emmylou to commence your cruise
Departure & Arrival Times
- Departs every Monday at 4.00 pm from Toorumbarry
- Disembarkment every Friday at 9.30 am at Echuca
- Your cruise fare includes complimentary coach transfers to/from Emmylou pre and post-your cruise.
Guest Reviews
Simply an outstanding piece of Australian History.
My sister and I had the most amazing three nights on the Emmylou. The staff were exceptional, each person made sure you were cared for, from Julie’s big smile as she welcomed you into the saloon each meal, Greg our chef and his amazing meals, will need to loose a few kilo’s from the trip now. Geoff’s love of steam engineers, we discovered he has his own steam engine at home, he really did know every detail, and was always happy to have a chat
Do yourself a favour and get on this cruise
The Emmylou experience is a class act from a fantastic company. Solo travellers note that if you join a cancellation list as I did, the single supplement is waived or reduced. It will save you heaps but you do need to have the flexibility to book with little notice; I had two weeks notice.
It is clear that a great deal of thought goes into everything they do and the staff, including the crew and the 'back end' staff, are superb. Nothing is too much trouble and they seem to have thought of everything from the time you book till when you step off at the end.
Couldn't have asked for a better short break. Fantastic crew. Chris is amazing. Scott the captain, skillful and knowledgeable. Ross, Anthony, Andrew and Warren all made the experience special. And I'll just say, you never go hungry or thirsty. Thoroughly recommend the Emmylou Paddlewheeler.
We really enjoyed a relaxing 4 days on a serene river cruise, with excellent 5 star service and a fascinating insight into the history of the 170 year old paddle-steamer EmmyLou. It was extremely comfortable in our QB ensuite cabin and the delicious food was cooked on board each day- scones and jam/cream, seafood, steak, pasta - every dish was really yummy. Take time out amongst the red river gums and quietly flowing river to go bird watching and just relaxing.
Capt Scott was a wonderful skipper, and Ross Harris gave us a great side trip to Blasted Point, on a smaller boat.
There are plenty of side trips to do each day, and fireside singing at night.
Highly recommended!
The cruise was very enjoyable and worth the money, but it was the fantastic crew that elevated our experience to a whole new level. Skipper Warren, engineer Jeff, chefs Greg & Lawrence, and Julie who was front of house were absolutely wonderful. The paddling on the water and the campfires on the river's banks were highlights for me. I would be happy to do this again.
I would highly recommend this cruise. Lovely staff, accommodation, service and food. The cruise was very realaxing and gave a wonderful sense of islolation. Look at our beautiful river, landscape and the stars at night.
Did a 4 night cruise on the PS EmmyLou and couldn't rave more than saying it was amazing! Crew were fabulous and cruise was well done and enjoyable. A very peaceful time floating on the Murray.
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Our Guest Survey Results
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Day 1
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Day 1 – Norris Bend
After arriving by coach from Echuca settle in as Emmylou departs Torrumbarry upstream, take the opportunity to savour an afternoon Devonshire tea while enjoying the picturesque views and acquainting yourself with fellow cruisers.
You may chat with the skipper in the wheelhouse to learn about PS Emmylou’s river history, relax in your private cabin or relish a drink in the saloon during “Happy Hour” as the sun sets.
In the evening, the crew will have a riverside campfire ready for you to enjoy after a chef-prepared welcome dinner at Norris Bend. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wombats, and birds as you bask in the river birds’ evening chorus and the emerging stars.
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Day 2
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Day 2 – Perricoota Station
After a hearty breakfast, PS Emmylou will cruise to the famous Perricoota Station. You’ll have the opportunity to board our coach to visit Restdown Winery, joining the property’s owners for a guided tour along a 1.4km wetlands walking trail, highlighting items of Aboriginal significance before enjoying a gourmet lunch of local produce and wine tastings.
Afterward, you’ll walk along the historic buildings and immaculate gardens of Perricoota Station before enjoying a fabulous dinner on Emmylou’s deck overlooking the famous property and river.
The night will conclude with a fascinating documentary featuring archival footage of the paddlesteamers and communities of the Murray River.
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Day 3
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Day 3 – Layfield Lane
For early risers and avid photographers, the morning mist and wildlife around Perricoota is a spectacle to behold. Enjoy a full day of cruising upstream towards Layfield Lane with lunch on the deck or in the saloon.
Afterward, experience a grand dinner on the riverbank with our signature Australian BBQ, followed by live entertainment and casual conversation around the campfire (weather dependent).
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Day 4
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Day 4 – Echuca / Moama
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast to fuel up for an exciting half-day adventure on both land and water. Your tour will take you through the charming town of Echuca, uncovering hidden historical gems like Hopwood’s Punt and the pontoon bridge. This bridge, the brainchild of Echuca’s founder Henry Hopwood, marks the initial river crossing in the area.
Next, prepare to be enchanted by the Murray River aboard our expedition vessel, the Murray Explorer. Following a delightful morning tea at the historic Echuca Wharf, you’ll set off on an upstream journey, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Murray River.
While cruising, you’ll have the opportunity to observe stunning landscapes up close and encounter a diverse array of wildlife. Additionally, you’ll gain insights into the river’s rich history, from its pre-European days to the early colonial era when riverboats were a common sight. Your lunch will be served onboard as your skilled skipper navigates the meandering upper river.
Later in the day, we’ll return to the Emmylou for a relaxing afternoon tea service. As the Emmylou sets sail once more toward Echuca Moama, the evening promises an intriguing twist. Following dinner, step back in time and uncover the hidden mysteries of the past on a captivating, one-hour guided lantern tour of the Port of Echuca Wharf and its surroundings. These areas have long been associated with tales of ghosts and unexplained phenomena, adding an intriguing element to your visit.
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Day 5
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Before breakfast, early risers can enjoy a wander along the riverbank before we say farewell.
Coach transfer to Echuca Car Parking, Train Station, and Echuca CBD Hotels
