New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia
Australia's longest river stretches 2,508 kilometres to the Southern Ocean. It offers historic paddle steamers, river red gum forests, and excellent fishing.
5.0 from 80 traveller reviews on Viator
Tickets & tours
Compare top-rated river cruises and day trips from Melbourne or Echuca.
Top ratedDiscover the wonders of the cosmos on this enlightening dark sky tour! Departing Mannum, you'll enjoy a river boat cruise and dinner. Then, travel to a stargazer's...
Most bookedCruise the iconic Murray River aboard a heritage paddle steamer and explore the vibrant wildlife at Kyabram Fauna Park. This full-day adventure from Melbourne invites...
Best valueOur 90 minute Scenic E-bike Cycling Tour takes you on the most beautiful ride, on a path most tourists don’t see! We supply you an e-bike, helmet and a friendly and...
Explore
Find out where to camp, swim, and watch paddle steamers.
3 spotsAlpine beginningsScenic reservoirs and mountain backdrops where the Murray starts.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
4 spotsHistoric River PortsPaddle steamer history and massive red gum forests in the Mid Murray.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
3 spotsCliffs & the MouthSun-drenched citrus regions, dramatic cliffs, and the final journey.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
Echuca was once Australia's largest inland port.
Today, it hosts authentic wood-fired paddle steamers.
Plan your visit
Plan 1 to 2 days for Echuca or Mildura. Houseboat rentals usually take a full week.
Summer is peak season for water sports. Spring and autumn offer cooler weather for camping.
Drive 2.5 hours from Melbourne to Echuca, or take the V/Line train for $10 to $30.
Public river access is free. National park camping fees start from $15.40 per night.
The Murray River, also known as Millewa or Dhungala, spans 2,508 kilometres (1,558 miles). It flows from the Australian Alps to the Southern Ocean. The river basin covers one-seventh of Australia's landmass.
You will find historic towns like Echuca and massive river red gum forests along the banks. Historic River Ports is home to restored 19th-century wharves and wetland birdwatching.
Visitors come to fish for Murray Cod, ride paddle steamers, and camp. Before you cast a line, read our Fishing Licence Rules guide to ensure you follow state rules.
We look at actual traveler feedback.
We break down exactly how long you spend on the water.
We list current starting rates without hidden fees.
From Viator
80 reviews of the dark sky sunset tour on Viator
Fantastic experience under the stars, was organized and ran very professionally, would highly recommend the experience.
This was such an amazing experience. The night was perfection and I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a unique experience just outside of Adelaide. The knowledge shared by Joe was super insightful and the ambience created by Kelly was the icing on the cake! :)
Darren rocked for showing us the B-side of VIC, most of us touring VIC would go to the 12 apostles and Philip Island but the steam paddler experience and wildlife park visit was not lesser than that
Our tour guide is Allen, very informative, a very safe driver and looked after our group very well from food, toileting needs etc. Thanks for the fabulous day. Keep up the good work😀 I highly recommend Explore Aust for future tours communication is excellent and on time.
Cannot praise this company highly enough. They went out of their way to give us a fabulous day. Nothing too much trouble. Particular mention to driver/guide Michael. Exceptional. I would 100% recommend using this tour company.
Great experience, wonderful driver/tour guide. Loved the wildlife park, and paddle Steamer trip. Ended the day with a relaxing wine tasting then chilled out on the drive back to Melbourne.
If you're in Echuca, do yourself a favour and book a ride with David. We had a fantastic time exploring the area. David shared insights about the local district that we never would have discovered on our own. The pace was perfect. A 5-star experience!
David was the best tour guide. Very knowledgeable. Loved my ride and learnt many new things about Echuca. And....the rain held off while we rode. Highly recommend
Wonderful trip, great food, the entertainment from Russell was fantastic. The staff were just amazing, very friendly & helpful. On top of that there's the beautiful scenery along the Murray River.
Travel tips
Houseboat hire pricesCosts, rules, and seasons for renting a Murray River houseboat.Read 
Fishing Licence RulesUnderstand NSW and VIC fishing licence rules for the Murray River.Read 
Best time to visitFind the right season for water sports, fishing, and camping.Read 
Inland BeachesFind safe, sandy spots for family swimming on the Murray River.Read 
Packing ListEssential items to pack for a safe and comfortable Murray River trip.Read Melbourne Road TripDrive or take the train from Melbourne to the Murray River.Read The river starts in the snow-capped Australian Alps. It flows 2,508 kilometres and ends at the Murray Mouth near Goolwa, where it empties into the Southern Ocean.
The river spans 2,508 kilometres (1,558 miles). It is the longest river in Australia.
Yes. You can swim at inland sandy spots like Thompson's Beach in Cobram. Always watch for strong currents and submerged snags.
You legally need a New South Wales fishing licence for the main river. The only exception is Lake Hume, where Victorian rules apply.
Summer (December to February) is the peak time for water sports. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for camping and fishing.
No. The Murray River is located in southern Australia, far away from the tropical habitats of crocodiles.
Find the best paddle steamer cruise for your trip.
