Two Paddle Steamers Cruising the Murray River

The **Murray River** (Australia's longest) still hosts authentic **paddle steamer cruises**. Two iconic vessels operate regular scheduled trips:

1. PS Emmylou (Mannum, South Australia)

• Built: 1980 (replica 1890s style) at Echuca; **wood-fired steam engine** (1906 Marshall Sons & Co.).
• Base: **Mannum** — historic river port, 80 km east of Adelaide.
• Cruises: **Daily 1-hour sightseeing**, **lunch/dinner cruises**, **2–3 night "Murray River Expeditions"** upstream to Blanchetown/Walker Flat. **Cabins, fine dining, guided walks**.
• Vibe: Intimate (max 36 overnight), heritage luxury, engine room views.

2. MV Proud Mary (Goolwa, South Australia)

• Built: 1982 (stern-wheel paddle steamer design).
• Base: **Goolwa** — at the Murray Mouth, near Lake Alexandrina, 85 km south of Adelaide.
• Cruises: **2–7 night voyages** exploring **Lower Lakes, Coorong, Murray Mouth**. **Wildlife focus** (pelicans, swans, seals, dolphins). **All-inclusive**: meals, drinks, guided tours (Ngarrindjeri culture, wetlands).
• Vibe: Larger (max 36 passengers), expedition-style, ecological/cultural immersion.

**Historic Note:** **PS Marion** (1897, Echuca) and **PS Pevensey** (1911, Echuca) are **heritage steamers** at the **Port of Echuca** (Victoria)—the **world's largest fleet of operating paddle steamers**—offering daily short cruises. But for **multi-day Murray River journeys from SA bases**, Emmylou and Proud Mary are the premier choices.