4 Night Murray River Explorer
4 Night Emmylou Explorer Cruise with Travelmarvel
Step aboard the PS Emmylou and experience the magic of river cruising on the majestic Murray River.
- Four nights aboard PS Emmylou
- Services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director
- Selected wines and beer with dinner service
- Return train journey from Melbourne to Echuca
- All transfers to and from PS Emmylou
- Onshore tours, riverside campfires and serenity
- All Meals, including Morning and Afternoon Tea
4 Night Murray River Cruise Aboard PS Emmylou
As the world’s only wood-fired paddlesteamer offering overnight accommodation, Emmylou is a true Australian icon—blending the charm of yesteryear with the comfort of modern luxury. Over four unforgettable nights, you’ll journey through stunning landscapes, visit historic riverside towns, and immerse yourself in the heritage, wildlife, and flavours of this remarkable region.
Each day offers a new adventure—from guided tours of Echuca’s historic precinct and a visit to the iconic Perricoota Station, to wine tasting and lunch at the region’s largest family-owned estate, St Anne’s Winery. Enjoy peaceful mornings with mist rising off the river, relaxed afternoons on deck, and evenings under the stars with signature BBQ dinners, live entertainment, and warm campfire conversations. Onboard, your experience is elevated by gourmet cuisine, elegant cabins, and the friendly hospitality of Emmylou’s dedicated crew.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, the 4-night cruise aboard PS Emmylou offers a truly unique escape. This is more than a holiday—it’s a step back in time, a connection to Australia’s riverboat heritage, and a celebration of slow, soulful travel. Join us and rediscover the romance of the Murray.
PS Emmylou Availability
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Day 1 - Arrive Melbourne, Echuca, Embark PS Emmylou
Arrive in Melbourne and transfer 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, where you’ll be greeted by your Travelmarvel Cruise Director. 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 with the original 1906 Marshall and Sons steam engine, Emmylou is reminiscent of a bygone era with its gleaming timber cladding and authentic wheelhouse that you can access and chat with the skipper. The eight onboard cabins are decked out in fine linens, private ensuites and direct access to the deck, where you can pause to watch the serene river scenes pass by.
Set off at 4pm this afternoon for Layfield Lane, spending your time on board relaxing with a good book or watching the Upper Murray River scenery. At Layfield Lane, enjoy a gourmet Australian BBQ under the stars, before a live music performance.
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.
April 2023
Day 2 - History, Cruising & Perricoota Station
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast on the deck of the PS Emmylou, then hop aboard our coach for the ‘Henry Hopwood Town Tour’. This engaging guided experience leads you through the historic centre of Echuca, where you’ll uncover the fascinating stories behind local landmarks, explore the differences between the steam era and modern times, and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique character that defines this river town today.
We then rejoin Emmylou for a day of cruising to your next stop, the historic Perricoota Station. Enjoy lunch aboard, watching as scenes along the Murray unfold as you cruise, the majestic river red gums, the sunlight bouncing off the river’s surface, and the hopeful glimpse of a kangaroo hopping beyond the tree line. Listen out for the laugh of a kookaburra over the rhythmic splashing of the paddle steamer.
At Perricoota Station, it time for Happy Hour before enjoying a gourmet dinner with your fellow travellers, prepared by your onboard chef. Cap off your day with a documentary screening of Riverboats Remembered—a captivating historical documentary that brings the paddle steamer era to life through rare archival footage spanning from the early 1900s to the mid-1970s.
We recently travelled with Murray River Paddlesteamers on the PS Emylou for a three night cruise from Echuca to Torrumbarry Weir. The three night cruise which included all meals and alcohol (with meals) provided an excellent way to enjoy both the scenery along the river and the experience of travelling on an old paddlesteamer with its associated history. This, complemented by the friendly, knowledgable and efficient staff made for an excellent long weekend away. Scott, our Captain for the cruise, managed the rising river and the strong currents with ease, whilst simultaneously providing expert commentary along the way. The on shore excursions, at the ‘beer can’ museum (which proved to be so much more!) the winery, the old sheep station and the weir, led by Scott were excellent. The food provided by Andrew and Julie and the steam engine history lesson from Anthony topped off a great weekend away. Highly recommended.
July 2023
Day 3 - Wine & Heritage, Deep Creek
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.
Upon returning to Perricoota Station, your Captain will guide you on a leisurely walk through the beautifully restored historic buildings and manicured riverside gardens. As evening approaches, enjoy Happy Hour aboard before dinner is served, as Emmylou cruises in the twilight towards Deep Creek Marina.
Day 4 - Scenic Cruising
By this stage of your journey, you’ll have fully embraced the unhurried rhythm of life on the Murray River.
As your paddlesteamer makes its gentle way upriver towards Echuca, savour your final full day on board exactly as you please. Settle into a quiet nook with a good book, sip a barista-made coffee on deck, swap stories with fellow travellers, or take the opportunity to chat with the engineer and discover the fascinating workings of the magnificent 1907 steam engine that powers your journey.
As evening falls, celebrate your final night on board with a beautifully prepared dinner showcasing the finest local flavours and regional produce, before PS Emmylou gracefully returns to her berth in Echuca.
Day 5 - Echuca
As the sun rises on your final morning aboard PS Emmylou, early risers are invited to take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the serenity and birdlife one last time. After a final breakfast onboard, it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow guests, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Murray River adventure.
A complimentary coach transfer will return you to Echuca’s car parking facilities or train station, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey home.
