Echuca, situated on the Murray River, is the place to jump aboard the Emmylou to experience the real Australia - or at least see how it was over 100 years ago. You can spend the day and night on the cruise, dining and relaxing on the tranquil waters of the Murray.
For 150 years, Echuca has grown up around the Murray River, and the paddle steamers helped to open up the way to this part of Australia. The Murray River System is covers around 1800 kilometres of waterways, including the Darling and Murrumbidgee Rivers and their tributaries, creating one of the longest river systems in the world.
The first paddle steamers sailed the Murray River in 1853 and established a thriving industry until the rail and roads began to service the region near the turn of the century. This progressively reduced the need for the riverboat industry and many of the workers were soon without employment.
Echuca has more paddleboats then just about anywhere - and that' s still only about a dozen. The Emmylou is 20 years old and despite its modern outer appearance, the working mechanics of the boat are original. This particular engine was built in London back in 1906 and runs 100% on wood.
The Emmylou allows passengers the unique experience of dining on board for lunch, dinner or just morning tea, and is renowned for its outstanding a la carte menu. While enjoying the exquisite wine list you can watch the sun go down and listen to the gentle rhythm of the paddle wheels through the water. If you decide to stay overnight, the Emmylou sleeps up to eighteen people in 'boat-sized' cabins. It moors for the night and guests can enjoy a campfire and a port before retiring to their rooms.
If you have time to explore the old port area, Echuca is a great place to spend the day. There are antique stores, blacksmiths, wood turners, plenty of restaurants and even a horse and carriage ride to hop on.
The facts
An overnight stay on the Emmylou starts at $180 per person for the lower deck cabin. The season runs from September to June.
A one hour cruise is available all year round with prices starting from $17.50 per person.
Murray River Paddlesteamers
Tel: 03 5480 2237
Prices correct at 10/05/04
