Murray River Cruising

Paddle steamers

Welcome to Murray River Paddlesteamers

Step aboard our iconic paddlesteamers, now including the exquisite PS Australian Star available from June 2025, for an elegant journey back in time along the winding Murray River. Bask in breathtaking views of landscapes and wildlife, whether you opt for PS Canberra’s daily sightseeing and lunch cruises or PS Emmylou’s multi-day 3, 4 & 7 night voyages – each promises an unforgettable experience.

Our dedicated crew is poised to cater to your desires, whether it’s a leisurely river trip or a special event. As pioneers of Echuca’s river cruising, we take pride in sharing the river’s stories and preserving its rich heritage. Join us for an adventure through history, guided by passionate storytellers, leaving you with cherished memories.

Classic Coastal Cruise

One, Three, Four and Six Night Cruises

The majestic PS Emmylou is one of the most recognisable and iconic Paddlesteamers in Australia, cruising the Murray River from Echuca, just 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne.

Named after the American country singer Emmylou Harris, PS Emmylou has been host to thousands of people, delighting even her namesake. PS Emmylou starred in the TV series All the Rivers Run in which she was renamed the PS Providence. Powered by a beautifully restored 1906 Marshall and Sons steam engine, Emmylou is now the only wood fired Paddlesteamer in the world offering regular scheduled accommodated river cruises.

Emmylou was recently relaunched as Australia’s most luxurious boutique inland river cruise after her cabins were refitted to a luxury standard with ensuites, including the new Emmylou Suite. Step back in time and let Emmylou connect you to Australian history, geography, culture and cuisine. Enjoy riverside campfires, BBQ’s, winery visits, world heritage wetlands and cultural experience, all whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of Australia’s most famous river.

Emmylou is available for weekend sightseeing, lunch and dinner cruises and is also used for weddings, corporate functions and private events subject to availability..

Overnight Cruises

Emmylou departs year-round for 1, 3, 4 & 6-night river cruises departing and returning from the Port of Echuca. With just 8 cabins and 16 passengers, you can be sure of excellent attention and service from our friendly and professional crew. All accommodated cruises are fully inclusive of all meals and onshore tours. For more information regarding these unique Australian river cruises

PS Emmylou

Accommodation

Escape to the serene Murray River and indulge in a luxurious stay in one of our PS Emmylou Cabins. Relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil surrounds from the comfort of your own private room on the river.
Our boutique paddle steamer features eight modern luxury cabins, each equipped with private ensuites, plush bedding, and fine linens to ensure a comfortable and indulgent stay. You can breathe in the fresh country air through the cabin windows or step outside onto the deck or veranda to enjoy the picturesque views of the river.
PS Emmylou Cabins are also equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning to keep you comfortable during your stay. Complimentary WIFI is available throughout the boat, including in the cabins, so you can stay connected with your loved ones or catch up on work. All cabins have 240 volt electrical plugs
Please note that while coffee and tea-making facilities are available in the Saloon, there are no fridges or coffee/tea-making facilities in the cabins. Our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable experience on the Murray River, and we hope you’ll indulge in the comfort and luxury of PS Emmylou Cabins during your stay.

Dining Onboard PS Emmylou

Our onboard dining experience is inspired by the Murray River’s heartland and the diverse produce it offers. Our chef creates hearty meals with a contemporary twist, using locally sourced ingredients from Murray River Produce.

Start your day with a range of continental choices, including delicious pastries, cereals, and fresh fruit, or opt for a traditional full English breakfast. Our chef will take care of morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea, leaving you free to enjoy the day’s activities. Depending on the cruising itinerary, lunch may be a hot meal or a gourmet picnic on the riverbank. In the evenings, indulge in our chef’s three to five-course dinners.

A classic Australian BBQ under the southern stars is an essential part of any Murray River experience. Watch the sunset from the banks of the river, while enjoying the sounds of the Murray’s native birdlife. On our three, four, and six-night cruises, you can experience this Australian tradition, complete with toasting marshmallows for supper.

At Emmylou, we do not allocate meal seating. You can sit with fellow passengers and swap stories over a meal or enjoy a quiet dinner with your partner on the deck. Our bar offers a wide variety of drinks, including wine, beer, aperitifs, and soft drinks. We are proud to support our local wineries, so be sure to sample some of the region’s finest wines.

PS Canberra

Day Cruises

The PS Canberra, now 110 year old is the oldest river boat in the Murray River Paddlesteamer fleet. Having celebrated her century in August 2013, the PS Canberra has been taking tourists on cruises along the Murray, Darling and Murrumbidgee rivers since 1944. Following her purchase in 2001, the Canberra underwent a 9-month restoration during 2002-2003 and was returned to being steam-powered once again. This was an unprecedented return for the Canberra as no known boat has ever been restored from diesel back to a steamer. With 100 years of working life under her hull and having carried hundreds of thousands of people, the PS Canberra is one of the most travelled boats on the Murray River. She is a golden girl of her era and a joy to experience.

Unique 360 degree viewing area above the engine
Fully enclosed and open areas (perfect for group gatherings)
Wide viewing windows to see the paddlewheels
Captain’s commentary of the historic Port and its unique paddleboat fleet
All children have the opportunity to steer the paddlesteamer and receive a Free Skippers Certificate
Kiosk on board
Fully licensed bar
Nespresso Coffee
Toilet facilities
Easy access on and off the vessel
Special events and entertainment on occasion

Coming 2027: Australian Sky — A New Era of Murray River Cruising

We’re delighted to announce the newest member of our fleet — Australian Sky — launching in late 2027 and set to redefine luxury river cruising in Australia.

As the elegant sister ship to Australian Star, Australian Sky will be the first five-star overnight paddlesteamer to call Mildura home in decades. She will offer 3 to 11-night cruises along the iconic Murray River, with itineraries stretching from Mildura to Adelaide, including the longest cruises ever offered on the Murray.

With just 19 spacious staterooms, all-inclusive experiences, fine dining, panoramic lounges, and immersive shore excursions, Australian Sky promises a new level of comfort, connection, and discovery.

Supported by the Victorian Government through the Regional Tourism Investment Fund and in proud partnership with APT Travel Group, Australian Sky will deliver unforgettable river journeys beneath the vast skies and golden light of Victoria’s sun-soaked northwest.

Get in Touch

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