Twelve Apostles sea stacks at sunset along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road

Echuca & Murray River Paddle Steamer Private Tour

Murray River Paddle Steamer & Wildlife Experience

River Cruise
Wildlife Park
Silo Art
Historic Echuca
Journey through country Victoria with silo art, Kyabram Fauna Park and a classic Murray River paddle steamer cruise on a private escape from Melbourne.


Tour Details

Price

From $1300 AUD

Duration

Approx. 11.5 Hours

Pick Up & Return

Hotel pick-up & return (CBD & inner suburbs)

When Can I Go

Wednesday - Sunday
All year round

Departure Time

7:00 AM

Group Size

1-7 Guests

Ages

All ages welcome
Child seats on request

Vehicle

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Return Distance

475 km / 295 mi

What to expect

7:30 AM

Pickup from Melbourne CBD or nearby accommodation

Depart early for a day of river history, country towns, and wildlife up north.

Morning

Nagambie Lake Coffee Stop

Sip a morning coffee by the water; watch the lake mirror the gums as the day warms.

Late Morning

Kyabram Wildlife Park

Meet kangaroos, emus, and native birdlife; stroll easy paths through open bushland habitats.

Midday

Lunch in Echuca (free time)

Wander the historic port precinct and choose a spot for lunch; soak up the Murray River vibe.

Afternoon

Paddle Steamer Cruise – 1 hour

Step aboard a restored paddle steamer; hear the churn of the paddles and watch red gums slide by.

Late Afternoon

Silo Art (Rochester)

Stop for striking silo murals; grab a quick photo of towering art against country skies.

Pink Cliffs Reserve

Walk short trails through rose-gold gullies and unusual eroded formations—an eye-catching finale.

Evening

Return to Melbourne

Settle back for the drive and arrive in Melbourne around 6:30PM, with Murray River memories still fresh in mind.

Whats Included

  • Private tour in a luxury vehicle
  • Door-to-door hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Friendly, knowledgeable driver-guide
  • Entry to Kyabram Fauna Park
  • 1-hour Murray River paddle steamer cruise
  • Flexible, scenic itinerary & photo stops
  • Bottled water
  • Morning Tea

What to bring

  • Weather-appropriate layers or light jacket
  • Hat, sunscreen & sunglasses
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Money for lunch & extras
  • Camera

Enhancements

  • Wharf to winery lunch & cruise
  • Wine tasting at Heathcote

Tour FAQs

Are entry tickets included?

Yes — your tour includes entry to Kyabram Fauna Park and a 1-hour Murray River paddle steamer cruise. We handle the tickets for you.

Where do we have lunch?

In Echuca you’ll have free time for lunch at your own expense. Your guide will recommend great options in the historic Port precinct to suit your taste and timing.

How does the paddle steamer cruise work?

We pre-book your 1-hour cruise at the Port of Echuca historic wharf. Boarding is easy, with indoor and outdoor seating and live commentary. Your guide handles timing and tickets — just step aboard and enjoy.

Is the paddle steamer cruise suitable for kids and seniors?

Yes — it’s a gentle river cruise with seating and calm conditions, perfect for families and mixed-ability groups.

How much walking is involved?

Mostly short, easy walks at the fauna park and around Echuca’s riverfront. Pink Cliffs Reserve has uneven surfaces; we keep a comfortable pace and can shorten this stop if preferred.

Will we see wildlife?

Yes — Kyabram Fauna Park features native wildlife such as kangaroos, emus and birdlife. Wild sightings along the river are possible but can’t be guaranteed.

Are there bathroom and rest stops?

Yes — facilities are available at Kyabram, in Echuca, and at towns along the route. We also plan comfort stops during the drive and can add extras whenever needed.

Can we add a winery tasting?

Often, yes — if time allows we can include a brief winery stop. Tasting fees are at your own expense and photo ID (18+) is required for alcohol tastings. Let us know when booking.

What vehicle do you use?

A luxury Mercedes-Benz people mover with leather seats, climate control, and phone charging on board — comfortable for country-road cruising with space for day bags and purchases.

How do we keep snacks or purchases cool?

We carry a small onboard fridge to keep perishables chilled. Your guide can store and label items and return them before the final stop — no cooler bag needed.

What should I wear?

Country weather can change quickly. Bring layers or a light jacket, hat and sunscreen for daytime, and comfortable walking shoes.

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