All aboard the PS Emmylou, a vintage wood-fired paddle steamer, to cruise down the Murray River in style – thanks to premium tour operator, Travelmarvel. The new river tour is now on sale, set to depart in August 2025.
The Reflections of the Murray River tour is an exclusive chartering partnership with Murray River Paddlesteamers, offering a four-night cruise aboard the PS Emmylou leisurely gliding along the calm waters of the Murray River.
The small group tour will start and finish in Echuca with guests to discover the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of the picturesque region while drifting past eucalyptus-covered landscapes, relishing gourmet dining, and enjoying premium amenities.
Powered by a restored 1906 wood-fired Marshall Sons & Co steam engine, the vessel is reminiscent of a bygone era with its oiled timber deck and authentic wheelhouse. Built to replicate 19th-century paddle steamers, the PS Emmylou has been designed to take guests down memory lane, without compromising on modern comforts.
Craig Burgess, Director of Murray River Paddle-steamers says they are delighted to partner with Travelmarvel to offer its guests an “unforgettable river cruise aboard the PS Emmylou”.
The paddle steamer is boutique cruising at its finest, accommodating for a maximum of just 16 guests across eight deluxe cabins. Each stateroom and suite features an en suite bathroom, flatscreen TV, personal climate control, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Pricing starts from AUD$2,995 per person, twin share, including savings of up to $600 per couple.
Travelmarvel’s Head of Product for Australia, Cher Lontok is thrilled to launch this new tour in partnership with Murray River Paddlesteamers.
“We are excited to offer our guests the unique opportunity to travel on an authentic paddle steamer, as this is truly one of the best ways to explore this beautiful part of Australia,” Cher said.
“This partnership underscores the growing demand for premium overnight river cruises in Australia, and ensures that more visitors, both from Australia and abroad, will soon be able to enjoy relaxing and stylish holidays on the Murray River.”
Guests will savour delicious gourmet meals prepared by an onboard chef while soaking in the serene river view from the dining saloon, which features both indoor and outdoor seating.
Layfield Lane – a two-course BBQ than on the banks of the picturesque Murray River – will see guests enjoy riverside BBQ dining off antique china, complete with live entertainment and a crackling campfire.
The tour also includes Travelmarvel’s carefully curated Insider Experiences, such as a Mungo Lodge Sunset Tour – the perfect opportunity to spot local kangaroos, emus and other wildlife at golden hour.
An expert Travelmarvel Cruise Director will also be on board to offer sightseeing advice and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Following the cruise, guests have the option to extend the tour and journey on to Swan Hill, World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park, and South Australia’s renowned Barossa Valley. For the extended eight-day tour, pricing starts from AUD$5,695 per person, twin share, including savings of up to $600 per couple.
The tour forms part of Travelmarvel’s newly released 2025 Australia program, offering a range of
itineraries and destinations across the country, with a variety of travel styles to choose from.
What: PS Emmylou Cruise
Where: Departs & arrives in Echuca
When: 10am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday – or until sold out!
To find out more, call Travelmarvel on 1300 205 408, visit
https://www.travelmarvel.com.au/destinations/australia or speak to your local travel agent.