6 Murray River cruises to plan your trip around

If you're planning a trip along the Murray, there's one thing you shouldn't skip: a cruise.

Not just because it's scenic (though it is), and not just because paddlesteamers are nostalgic (they are), but because there's no better way to understand the rhythm of this river than from the water itself.

From historic paddlesteamers with local commentary to sunset sessions with a drink in hand, here are six Murray River cruises worth booking, and what makes each one special.

More than 100 paddlesteamers have been built in Echuca over the years so what better place to start?

Climb aboard one of Echuca Paddlesteamers’ beautifully restored vessels and you’ll be stepping straight into history. There’s the PS Pevensey, star of All the Rivers Run (though in the series, it was named the Philadelphia), the PS Adelaide, the oldest wooden-hulled paddlesteamer still cruising anywhere in the world, and the PS Alexander Arbuthnot which was the last working paddlesteamer built on the Murray during the riverboat trade era.

Each boat has its own story, and part of the magic is stepping on board and hearing it told by the captain or engineer. Cruises run for about an hour and offer a hands-on look at river life. You’ll see the steam engine in action, peek below deck and maybe even take the wheel for a moment.

Local tip: Port of Echuca Discovery Centre entry is included. It’s packed with fascinating detail and well worth doing before or after your cruise.

Also departing from Echuca, Murray River Paddlesteamers offers both short sightseeing and lunch cruises as well as luxury multi-day experiences. Their newest vessel, the PS Australian Star, is set to launch later this year and brings a whole new meaning to luxury on the river.

Until then, the beloved PS Emmylou (also featured in All the Rivers Run as the PS Providence) remains a standout as the world’s only wood-fired paddlesteamer offering overnight journeys. Whether you’re after a day trip or a longer river escape, this crew knows how to mix heritage with hospitality.

Local tip: Don’t have time for a multi-day cruise? The Wharf to Winery lunch cruise is a relaxed and delicious way to sample the experience and see more of the region at the same time.

Looking for something classic but cosy? PS Cumberoona is a family-run paddlesteamer offering scenic cruises on Lake Mulwala with charm and character. You’ll find indoor and outdoor seating, glimpses of its original 1906 steam engine and friendly local commentary. Captain Robbie doesn’t mind if you visit the wheelhouse, either.

Take a sightseeing or lunch cruise during the day or visit at sunset for a dinner cruise with a menu prepared by the in-house (or should we say on-deck) chef. Accessibility is excellent and the welcoming feel makes it great for all ages.

Local tip: The sunset dinner cruises sell out quickly in warmer months, book early if you’re keen.

Once a floating general store that cruised 500 kilometres a week, the PS Pyap now offers relaxing one-hour cruises departing from Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill. It’s a brilliant little time capsule with commentary, a licensed bar and gentle views along the river.

You’ll pass the historic Murray Downs Homestead and other local landmarks, but the real draw is the sense of stepping into a slower, simpler time.

Local tip: Stick around after dark, Pioneer Settlement’s light shows Legends of the Mallee and Heartbeat of the Murray are the perfect way to cap off your day on the river.

This long-running family business has been cruising the Murray River around Mildura for 70 years. Their vessels, the PV Rothbury and PB Mundoo, run trips through Lock 11, along with dinner cruises, lunch outings and stopovers at the historic Gol Gol Hotel.

Expect good food, warm service and commentary that feels like chatting with a local rather than sitting through a script.

Local tip: Lock 11 is one of the few operational locks on the river (LOCKS BLOG LINK) where you’ll move from one river level to another, it’s especially fun for first-time visitors or kids.

Built in 1912 and originally used to clear snags as a public works boat, the PS Melbourne is now back in service after a major restoration, and it’s a beauty.

With regular departures from Mildura, this paddlesteamer offers short cruises that showcase its twin-cylinder steam engine, old-school charm and stories of life on the working river. If you’ve got more time, they occasionally take special steam excursions around Wentworth on the Darling-Baaka River too!

Local tip: One for the engine nerds and history lovers, the machinery is on full display and the commentary is quietly captivating.

*Please note: As of November 2025, the PS Melbourne is now located in Echuca Moama. Follow along on Facebook for the latest information and upcoming cruise details.

• Book ahead during school holidays or weekends, especially for dinner or sunset sailings.

• Check what's included. Meals, drinks, commentary and policies are different for each operator.

• Cruise lengths vary; some are one-hour loops, others last half a day or longer. You might like a shorter option if you’ve never been on the water before or have small kids with you.

• Water levels can affect access, particularly for ramps and docking.

• Sometimes boats need a little time off the water or in port for maintenance so be flexible if the one you had your heart set on isn’t available. It’s also a great excuse for another visit to our region later.

Whether you're cruising for the scenery, the stories or just a slower pace, there's a Murray River experience for you. Pick one, jump on board and let the river do the rest.

It’s one of the easiest ways to connect with the region, and one of the most memorable.