Fodor's Expert Review PS Emmylou

Departing from Echuca around sunset, this handsome steamer chugs down the Murray River on cruises ranging from two to six nights, sailing through ancient wetlands, stopping to visit wineries, sites of Aboriginal cultural significance, and the 1860s Perricoota Station homestead. While the 19th-century style paddlesteamer was built for a television series in the 1980s, she does run on a 1906 steam engine. Following a complete refurbishment, the eight cabins all have queen beds; the pride of the paddlesteamer is the Emmylou Suite, on the upper deck with its panoramic views. Sunrise over the river, as the boat churns past mist-cloaked gum trees and laughing kookaburras, is a truly memorable experience. Costs from A$1,040 per person, twin share, two-night cruise to A$3,420 per person, twin-share, six-night cruise.