Premium tour operator Travelmarvel has launched a new river cruising tour for 2025, offering travellers the opportunity to cruise along the Murray River aboard the PS Emmylou, an authentic wood-fired paddle steamer.
In an exclusive chartering partnership with Murray River Paddlesteamers, Travelmarvel's new Reflections of the Murray River tour is on sale now, set to depart in August 2025.
This incredible small group tour features a four-night cruise aboard the PS Emmylou, which will leisurely glide along the calm waters of the Murray River. Guests will discover the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of this picturesque region while drifting past eucalyptus-covered landscapes, relishing gourmet dining, and enjoying premium amenities. Pricing starts from AUD$2,995/NZD$3,495 per person, twin share, including savings of up to $600 per couple.
Built to replicate 19th-century paddle steamers, the PS Emmylou has been designed to take guests down memory lane, without compromising on modern comforts. 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.
The paddle steamer accommodates a maximum of just 16 guests in eight deluxe cabins, offering boutique cruising at its finest. Each stateroom and suite features an en suite bathroom, flatscreen TV, personal climate control, and complimentary Wi-Fi. An expert Travelmarvel Cruise Director is on hand to offer sightseeing advice and ensure everything runs smoothly.
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. At Layfield Lane, guests will enjoy riverside BBQ dining under the stars, complete with live entertainment and a crackling campfire.
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/NZD$6,495 per person, twin share, including savings of up to $600 per couple. The tour also includes Travelmarvel's carefully curated Insider Experiences, such as a Mungo Lodge Sunset Tour, offering the perfect opportunity to spot local kangaroos, emus and other wildlife at golden hour.
Cher Lontok, Head of Product for Australia at Travelmarvel, says, "All our tours are expertly crafted to fully immerse our guests in the heart of each destination. We are thrilled to launch this new tour in partnership with Murray River Paddlesteamers and 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."
"We are delighted to be partnering with Travelmarvel to offer its discerning guests unforgettable river cruises aboard the PS Emmylou," shares Craig Burgess, Director of Murray River Paddlesteamers.
"As a leading player in premium travel, Travelmarvel opens doors to thriving domestic and international markets for our vessels. 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."
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.
