Echuca

Located on the Murray River, Echuca-Moama is a heritage river town, home to a fleet of paddle steamers and a great base for waterskiing, swimming, cruising or taking a houseboat holiday. From the Aboriginal word meaning 'meeting of the water', Echuca is one of Victoria's oldest river towns. At one time Echuca was the state's most substantial inland river port. Paddle steamers traded along the Murray and Darling Rivers almost as far as the Queensland border and brought their cargoes of wool to Echuca for transport to the Port of Melbourne. It is Echuca's rich port history that has drawn visitors to the town since restoration of the old port area began in 1973. The survival of many original buildings allowed the streetscape to be renovated and the wharf now offers visitors an exciting opportunity to experience a working steam port. You can take a relaxing hour-long cruise aboard one of the authentic paddle steamers or a leisurely one hour stroll on a self guided tour of the Echuca Wharf. The world's biggest fleet of operating paddle steamers is based at Echuca and each has its own history and character. Paddle steamers again travel the local waters, but for purely recreational and nostalgic purposes. Learn about pioneering days from the captain's commentary and enjoy refreshments as you cruise in comfort. Alternatively, hire a houseboat and cruise down the Murray at your own pace. Echuca is a great family holiday destination with its location right on the Murray River, its warm Mediterranean climate and the myriad of water based activities on offer. Echuca is just under three hours from Melbourne on the Hume Freeway/Northern Highway.