History of the Paddle Steamer Boats on the Murray River

The Murray River, Australia’s longest river, has a rich history of paddle steamers that date back to the mid-19th century. Paddle steamers were an essential part of life along the river, used for transport, trade, and communication.

The first paddle steamer on the Murray River was the Mary Ann, which was built in 1853 and launched in 1854. It was followed by many others, including the Lady Augusta, the PS Adelaide, the PS Ruby, and the PS Emmylou. These paddle steamers were a common sight on the river, carrying goods and passengers up and down the river.

The majestic PS Emmylou is one of the most recognisable and iconic Paddlesteamers in Australia, cruising the Murray River from Echuca, just 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne.

Named after the American country singer Emmylou Harris, PS Emmylou has been host to thousands of people, delighting even her namesake. PS Emmylou starred in the TV series All the Rivers Run in which she was renamed the PS Providence. Powered by a beautifully restored 1906 Marshall and Sons steam engine, Emmylou is now the only wood-fired paddle steamer in the world offering regularly scheduled accommodated river cruises.

Emmylou was recently relaunched as Australia’s most luxurious boutique inland river cruise after her cabins were refitted to a luxury standard with ensuites, including the new Emmylou Suite. Step back in time and let Emmylou connect you to Australian history, geography, culture, and cuisine. Enjoy riverside campfires, BBQs, winery visits, world heritage wetlands, and cultural experiences, all whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of Australia’s most famous river.

The PS Emmylou will continue to run overnight cruising, but will be joined by the Australian Star in 2026. So book your Emmylou experience today!

Paddle steamers also played an important role in the communication network along the river. They carried mail, telegraph equipment, and even newspapers to remote towns and settlements along the river. In some cases, paddle steamers were the only way to get supplies and news to these isolated communities.

However, the decline of the paddle steamer industry began in the early 20th century with the advent of the railway and road transport. The last commercial paddle steamer on the Murray River, the PS Canberra, was decommissioned in 1958.

Today, the Murray River is still home to several restored paddle steamers that operate as tourist attractions. Visitors can take a ride on one of these historic vessels and learn about the river’s rich history and the role that paddle steamers played in shaping the region.

Take a look at at the video below of the amazing experience you could have on board the PS Emmylou.

_{Come and enjoy the tradition of overnight cruising on Australia’s longest river and most significant waterway, the Murray River. Experience our trademark level of country hospitality aboard an authentic wood-fired paddle steamer Emmylou. Enjoy some sightseeing on the river, explore the wetlands and see the iconic redgums. We are sure you will connect with Australia’s inland river history, geography, culture, and cuisine.}