Rise in solo travellers on Murray River cruises
A significant rise in solo travellers aboard Australia’s most famous overnight paddlesteamer, PS Emmylou, has prompted Murray River Paddlesteamers, based in the Victorian river port of Echuca, to meet the demand and waive the solo supplement on three-night cruises until August 31, 2026, and also provide access to the same savings couples receive until the end of winter.
Predominately female, solo guests aboard Emmylou say they value the freedom, flexibility, space and self-discovery that solo travel aboard the boutique paddlewheeler offers.
“Our enchanting little riverboat, Emmylou, only carries 16 guests in all-inclusive comfort so it’s perfect for solo travellers seeking precious time away on their own,” said Murray River Paddlesteamers Director, Craig Burgess. “But what we find is most solo travellers also enjoy the company of other like-minded guests onboard. They might be lone travellers but they’re never lonely on Emmylou where everyone becomes friends on the river.”
Powered by an authentic, 1906 steam engine, the endearing PS Emmylou – famed as the star of the hit 1980s mini-series ‘All the Rivers Run’ – invites guests to step aboard a world of old-world romance and vibrant charm. The riverboat boasts elegantly styled cabins with ensuites, traditional timber decks that gleam in the afternoon light, a warm and inviting dining saloon, and endless ever-changing vistas of the majestic, sun-dappled Murray River.
Leisurely days aboard Emmylou are defined by the rhythmic turning of the paddlewheel, indulgent meals showcasing local produce and wines, and guided trips to wineries, historic homesteads, indigenous heritage sites, charming towns and wildlife sanctuaries. And on one night on each sailing there’s a magical campfire dinner on the riverbank under the stars.
PS Emmylou sails on her three-night journeys along the Murray every Saturday, returning on Tuesday.
Solo special on Emmylou’s three-night sailings until August 31, 2026
Solo supplements have been removed in selected cabins on Emmylou’s three-night sailings departing before August 31, 2026. There’s also a $400 per person saving for couples and solos. This means fares for solo travellers before the end of August are now from $1700 – the same per-person price as couples.
Fares include all onboard meals, daily shore excursions, selected beers and wines with dinner, soft drink, bottled water and tea/coffee throughout the journey, and coach transfers during the cruise, as well as complimentary return train trips between Melbourne and Echuca, or free undercover car parking at Echuca until August 31, 2026. The special offer is subject to availability and conditions apply.
Call Murray River Paddlesteamers on 03 5482 5244 or visit 3-Night Murray River Cruise | Luxury Paddlesteamer Getaway (direct link to the cruise offer) or www.mrps.com.au .
