Small-Group Murray River Adventure - Paddle Steamer & Wildlife

Melbourne , Australia

Small-Group Murray River Adventure - Paddle Steamer & Wildlife

Active

(2 reviews)

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the Aussie outback on this full-day tour from Melbourne, uncovering local silo art, riverside heritage, native animals, and wine.

Journey through regional Victoria on an exclusive paddle steamer cruise and wildlife adventure combining Murray River heritage, wildlife observation, and wine tasting. Start with a complimentary coffee at the Arts Centre before heading to Nagambie.

Learn about koalas during a ranger-led talk at Kyabram Fauna Park, then step back in time in Echuca aboard the PS Canberra paddle steamer for a cruise on Australia's largest river.

Enjoy changing scenery from eucalypt forests to farmland to vineyards, as you travel through Victoria's heartland. Discover Rochester's painted silos showcasing artistic heritage, and end with premium wine tasting featuring wines grown in ancient Cambrian soil at a renowned Heathcote winery.

Limited to 15 travelers for intimate experience with comfortable transport, expert guidance, and guaranteed window seating.

Available options

Small-Group Murray River Adventure - Paddle Steamer & Wildlife

What's included

Barista Coffee - Complimentary premium coffee at Melbourne Arts Centre before departure each morning

Exclusive Wildlife Experience - Native animal encounters plus exclusive koala keeper talk at park

Small Group Experience - Maximum 15 travelers ensures personalized attention and intimate atmosphere

Award-winning Wine Tasting - Guided tasting at Heathcote winery featuring Cambrian soil wines

Premium Transport - Comfortable midi coach with WiFi and guaranteed window seats for every booking

Authentic Murray River Cruise - 1-hour PS Canberra paddle steamer with captain's commentary aboard

Expert Local Guide - Discover hidden gems with engaging commentary throughout your outback adventure

Detailed itinerary

Welcome to this picturesque lake town, a taste of regional Australia with waterfront cafes and regional produce.

Begin your regional Victoria adventure in the peaceful lake-side township of Nagambie. Take some time to stretch your legs, refuel with a coffee from the charming main street, and enjoy the serene Lake Nagambie views as you enter the river region of Victoria.

Get up close to Australia's unique wildlife at Kyabram Fauna Park. Wander open-air enclosures and meet kangaroos, emus, koalas, reptiles, and more in a relaxed, natural setting — a true highlight for nature lovers and families alike.

Start your experience with a Ranger Talk at the Koalas, before proceeding to explore the park in tour own time.

Finished early - enjoy the treats of the on-site café as you sit and watch the cute Meerkats run about you.

Step back in time as we arrive into the historic port town of Echuca, Victoria’s largest inland port. This charming river port town on the Murray River is known for its 19th-century wharf, paddle steamers, and preserved heritage buildings that reflect its vital role in Australia's inland trade era.

Take some time to explore and get some lunch, before boarding the PS (Paddle Steamer) Canberra for a relaxing one-hour cruise along the Murray River, complete with captain's commentary. Drift past towering red gum forests and heritage wharves aboard this authentic paddle steamer.

Silo Art - marvel at the vibrant silo art installation - part of Victoria's celebrated Silo Art Trail. Travelling through the agricultural heartland of Victoria, witness as the scenery changes around you from eucalypt forests, to the wide expanse of farmland, to rows upon rows of vineyards. We stop for a chance to view the iconic painted silos of Rochester - part of Victoria's celebrated Silo Art Trail showcasing the unique art of midland Victoria. These towering artworks tell the story of regional history and local wildlife, perfect for memorable photos.

We finish the day with a premium wine tasting at one of Heathcote's most renowned Wineries. Sample a selection of award-winning wines while soaking in the stunning vineyard and hillside views that define this celebrated estate.

Return back to the brights lights of Melbourne city after a fulfilling day exploring the best fo regional Victoria. Be dropped back at the Melbourne Arts Centre or your city center hotel on request

What's not included

Food and Drinks other than what's stated

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet outside Protagonist Café (St Kilda Road side). Do not wait at Hamer Hall.
Look for the Giant Spire and Protagonist Café out front.
Accessible via tram (Free Tram Zone), 5-minute walk from Flinders Street Station, or 5-10 minutes on foot from most central hotels.

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes