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With such sensational rivers of our own to explore, international cruises can wait! From the mighty Murray in the south to the Tweed River in the east, river cruising is a fun way to experience the unique inland wonders of Australia.
All aboard!
Murray River, Victoria
The Murray winds 2570km from the Snowy Mountains all the way to the Indian Ocean, through some of south-eastern Australia's most fascinating towns.
Drifting along in a paddle steamer is a step-back-in-time experience that allows you to slow down and appreciate the sights you see along the way, from red gum forests and sandstone cliffs to farmland and historic towns – this is living! You can book a two- or five-night stay on the 18-cabin Proud Mary for a little luxury, or step even further back in time aboard wood-fired paddle steamer Emmylou. Emmylou was named after American country singer Emmylou Harris (who has taken a trip on the vessel), and starred in legendary Australian TV series All the Rivers Run.
The paddle steamer carries up to 16 passengers in eight ensuite cabins. Cruises range from 2-6 nights up and down river from Echuca, and include shore tours, riverside campfires and gourmet meals. Echuca is two and a half hours' drive north of Melbourne.
Photo credit Getty/fotofritz16
Hawkesbury River, NSW
Just north of Sydney lies Wisemans Ferry, the jumping-off point for your very own river adventure. It's here you can board your own houseboat (no special licence required) for an on-water getaway that really will help you get away from it all.
Treat yourself to a five-star houseboat complete with bedrooms and a heated on-deck spa, or opt for a humble but comfortable houseboat the whole family will feel at home on. Swim ladders off the rear make it easy to go in for a dip, and each houseboat comes with its own dinghy to zip to and from shore for supplies and on-land activities – whether a round of golf, a riverside picnic or an outing to a pick-your-own orchard.
Photo credit Getty/Steveo24
Tweed River, NSW
Birdlife abounds along the peaceful Tweed River, which you can navigate from the comfort of your own houseboat. Discover riverside country towns from historic Tumbulgum to beautiful Murwillumbah (have lunch at the art deco-style Imperial Hotel – you can't miss it, it's pink!) or see what's around the next bend from a lounge chair up on deck. Your own dinghy makes it easy to browse the shops and galleries, go mud crabbing or take a nature hike, before heading off down the river once more.
The waters of the Tweed are calmest in winter and the sunsets you'll see from your vessel are sure to be some of the fondest memories of your trip.