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Your Guide to the 4 Amazing Boats of the Murray River
14 June 2024
The Murray River, Australia’s longest river, is a haven for travellers seeking a unique and immersive way to experience the country’s natural beauty and rich history. Among the various ways to explore the river, cruising on one of its iconic boats stands out as a top choice. In this Guide to the Boats of the Murray River – we’ll take a closer look at four of the most renowned vessels that ply the Murray’s waters: the Murray Princess, the Proud Mary, the Emmylou, and the Australian Star.
1. Murray Princess

The PS Murray Princess is the largest inland paddle wheeler in the Southern Hemisphere, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury and nostalgia. With its grand design reminiscent of the 19th-century steamers, the Murray Princess provides an opulent cruising experience and is one of the popular boats of the Murray River.
Features and Amenities:
- Accommodation: The Murray Princess offers a range of cabins, from inside cabins to staterooms with private balconies. All rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities.
- Dining: Guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs, featuring fresh local produce and fine wines from the region. The dining room offers panoramic views of the river.
- Activities: The cruise includes guided nature walks, wildlife spotting, and cultural tours. Guests can also relax in the two lounge areas, complete with a bar and live entertainment.
Cruise Experience: Cruising aboard the Murray Princess is a journey through time and nature. The vessel sails through some of the most scenic parts of the Murray River, including ancient cliffs, lush wetlands, and historic towns. The knowledgeable crew provides fascinating insights into the river’s history and ecosystem, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
2. Proud Mary

The Proud Mary offers a more intimate and personalised cruising experience. This boutique paddle steamer is known for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional service, making it one of the favourite boats of the Murray River among those looking for a relaxing and enriching journey.
Features and Amenities:
- Accommodation: The Proud Mary features comfortable cabins with large windows, ensuring guests have spectacular views of the river scenery.
- Dining: The onboard dining experience focuses on regional cuisine, with meals served in a cozy dining area. Guests can savour local specialties and fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
- Activities: The cruise includes guided excursions to local attractions, nature walks, and wine tastings. The onboard naturalist provides engaging talks about the river’s flora and fauna.
Cruise Experience: Aboard the Proud Mary, passengers can expect a relaxed and immersive experience. The smaller size of the vessel allows it to navigate narrower parts of the river, offering unique perspectives and access to secluded spots. The itinerary often includes visits to wildlife reserves, Aboriginal cultural sites, and charming riverside towns.
3. Emmylou

The PS Emmylou is a classic paddle steamer named after the American country music singer Emmylou Harris. This vessel combines the charm of a traditional steamboat with modern comforts. It is one of the boats of the Murray River offering an authentic and nostalgic river cruise experience.
Features and Amenities:
- Accommodation: Emmylou offers well-appointed cabins with vintage décor and modern conveniences. Each cabin has large windows to enjoy the passing scenery.
- Dining: Guests dine on delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The dining room and outdoor deck provide beautiful settings for enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Activities: The cruise includes shore excursions to historic sites, wineries, and national parks. Onboard, guests can enjoy live music, storytelling sessions, and stargazing from the deck.
Cruise Experience: Cruising on the Emmylou is like stepping back in time. The paddle steamer glides gracefully along the river, powered by a restored wood-fired steam engine. The crew shares stories of the river’s history and legends, adding a rich narrative to the journey. Passengers often highlight the unique combination of old-world charm and modern hospitality.
4. Australian Star

The Australian Star offers a contemporary cruising experience on the Murray River. It is a standout with being one of the boats of the Murray River with a focus on luxury and comfort. This modern vessel is designed to provide an upscale and relaxing journey through one of Australia’s most picturesque regions.
Features and Amenities:
- Accommodation: The Australian Star features spacious cabins with ensuite bathrooms, private balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The stylish interiors are designed for maximum comfort and elegance.
- Dining: The onboard restaurant serves gourmet meals inspired by the region’s culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy fine dining with stunning views of the river.
- Activities: The cruise includes a variety of activities such as wine tastings, guided tours, and water-based excursions. Onboard amenities include a spa, fitness center, and sun deck.
Cruise Experience: The Australian Star promises a luxurious and immersive experience. The vessel’s modern design and premium amenities make it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure. The itinerary often includes stops at premier wineries, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Murray River Region.
Each of these iconic vessels—the Murray Princess, Proud Mary, Emmylou, and Australian Star—offers a distinct and memorable way to experience the Murray River. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of the Murray Princess, the intimate charm of the Proud Mary, the nostalgic allure of the Emmylou, or the contemporary luxury of the Australian Star, a cruise on one of the boats of the Murray River promises a journey filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and exceptional hospitality.
Starting or ending your cruise in Adelaide? Why not book some day trips in the area to make the most of your time! Embark on one of these cruises and discover the magic of the Murray River for yourself.