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
Loading availability...
| Departure Date | Room Type | Availability | Price | Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
per person
per person
|
For
guest
|
✓ LIMITED × |
per person
per person
|
Save
per person
|
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, River 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 to make a leisurely cruise downstream to your next stop, the historic Perricoota Station. Watch 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, join your skipper for a guided tour of the historic farm and homestead and its pristine gardens. Later, return to PS Emmylou to enjoy a gourmet dinner with your fellow travellers, prepared by your onboard chef. Cap off your day with a documentary screening of the Murray
River’s local communities and its famous paddle steamers throughout history. Before retiring to your cabin for the night, admire the starry night sky and the calming quiet of the Australian bush.
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 - History & Heritage, Deep Creek
Start your morning with a satisfying breakfast, preparing for an engaging half-day journey into Echuca’s vibrant past. Board the coach for a return trip to Echuca, where you’ll have time to explore the picturesque historic port precinct at your leisure. Whether you choose to pick up a souvenir, relax with a coffee while admiring the heritage architecture and artisan shops, or simply absorb the ambiance of one of Australia’s most iconic river ports, the experience promises to be memorable.
Next we board the beautifully restored PS Canberra, a 113-year-old paddlesteamer crafted from robust red gum timber in 1912. Enjoy a scenic river cruise on this historic vessel and picture what life was like during the golden age of paddle steamers. After your cruise, visit the nearby St Annes Winery for wine tastings and lunch, then rejoin Emmylou as your journey continues upstream to your evening mooring at Deep Creek Marina.
Day 4 - History &Heritage
By this point in your journey, you will have well and truly adjusted to the unhurried, relaxed pace of life along the Murray River.
Your paddlesteamer spends the day travelling upriver towards Echuca, and you can enjoy your last day on board sitting out on deck enjoying the views while swapping tales with your fellow cruisers, reading a book, or sipping a barista-made coffee and settling in to one of the many cosy nooks hidden throughout the vessel.
Dinner is a celebration of local flavours and produce, served on board this evening before the PS Emmylou docks back 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.
