Gateway to Murray Outback

It is no doubt that many flock to the Murray River to relax and enjoy the peaceful serenity of holidaying on a houseboat.  There is nothing quite like cruising along and taking in the panoramic views that the Murray has to offer.

There are a variety of operators all along the Murray region that are able to cater for all different groups and budgets with some boats catering for up to 12 people making it an affordable holiday idea.  The best part of it is that you do not require a special license to drive the houseboat; a full motor vehicle driver’s license is adequate.

Houseboats do normally supply linen and everything else you would normally expect to have in a holiday accommodation, it is best to travel light as storage space can be limited.  Depending on the amount of people on the boat, it can get a little cosy at times, so it is important to plan and have a daily schedule for when people shower and prepare food.

When hiring, it is common to pay a cash bond and amounts can vary depending on the boat and operator and can range between $500-$1200.  This amount is refundable providing that the houseboat is returned in a condition that is acceptable.  House cleaning is the requirement of the hirer and should be carried out prior to returning back to the operator.  Some operators do charge a cleaning fee or deduct the amount from the bond, you may even find your own house cleaner to tidy up for you.  Insurance is included in the hire and provides peace of mind to any accidental damage.

Houseboats do travel at a slow pace of less than 10km/h and are not permitted to travel after sunset.  Boats can be parked along the river banks and you are free to explore the many towns along the Murray River.

Houseboats are fun and relaxing for the entire family so give it a try and you won’t be disappointed.

For more information of houseboats, click the links below:

All Seasons Houseboats

Mildura Houseboats

Timeout Houseboats

The Murray outback is where Australia’s iconic 2,520 kilometres Murray River meets the harsh Australian desert and outback region.  Running through some of the country’s most beautiful townships including Mildura, Wentworth, Renmark, Berri to name a few.

Mildura has a strong population of 30,000 from diverse backgrounds with a relaxed regional setting, Mildura has plenty to explore.  Mildura offers delicious local produce and fine food and wine on Feast Street, Farmers Markets showcasing local grown fresh food and products, Mungo National Park within reach allows explorers to get in touch with nature and appreciate the landscapes of Lake Mungo.  The lake leads visitors to walls of sand dunes and an area known as the Lunar Landscape which displays the power of nature’s wind carving and shaping rock formation over hundreds and thousands of years.

Wentworth is a smaller town located in southern New South Wales and has two of Australia’s important rivers meeting at a junction.  The Murray and Darling are home to many the PS Ruby paddle steamer, many scenic river cruises and self-guided houseboats.  Enjoy a day out at Trentham Estate and learn about its vast wine range, take in the relaxed ambience of the restaurant with a menu produced from fresh local produce.

Renmark is town along the Murray River located within South Australia and has a population of around 8000.  Its warm climate all year around makes it a wonderful place to visit no matter what the season.  Enjoy the Murray with kayaks and canoe, visit the Renmark War Memorial building or Olivewood, a Canadian style bungalow built by Charles Chaffey, the younger brother of the well-known Chaffey brothers who helped pioneer irrigation in the Renmark region.

Berri in South Australia is known for its orange juice factory that supplies a large portion of Australia’s orange juice since 1943, although the factory has since closed for many years.  The town is known today for its beautiful riverfront of the Murray with exceptional recreational activities.  You will see many houseboats with visitors and local’s alike enjoying fishing, swimming, wind-surfing and other sporting activities.