This Wednesday at 11:30am, why not treat yourself to a relaxing 2-hour cruise aboard Paddle Boat Mundoo, setting off from Mildura and drifting peacefully upstream to the Gol Gol Hotel for lunch. It’s the perfect midweek escape — gliding along the mighty Murray River, soaking in the calm beauty of Sunraysia from the water, then landing at a historic riverside pub for a meal with a view.
Cruises run on a regular schedule through Mildura Paddle Steamers — you can always check the latest timetable on their website. (Mildura Paddle Steamers)
A bit of history — the Mundoo story
The Mundoo isn’t your average paddle boat. Built in 1987 at Goolwa, South Australia, she was originally powered by a restored 1892 Garrett & Sons steam engine — the same engine that served the historic paddle steamer P.S. Pyap.
In 1999, the boat was purchased by Captain Alby Pointon and his wife Freda, who brought her to Mildura. On 5 December 1999 she left Goolwa, and after an epic 888-kilometre journey along the Murray, she arrived in Mildura on 16 December. (Mildura Paddle Steamers)
Once in Mildura the Mundoo became part of Mildura Paddle Steamers’ fleet — offering cruises, dining events and special trips. Because the original steam engine wasn’t powerful enough for the sometimes-strong flow of the Murray, it was replaced with a diesel engine and hydraulic motors. This upgrade allowed the Mundoo to operate reliably regardless of river conditions.
At 34.9 metres long and built with a steel hull, the Mundoo is roomy and comfortable — with timber-finish interiors, dining facilities and bar, capable of carrying up to 180 passengers.
So when you step aboard this Wednesday, you’re not just going for a boat ride — you’re travelling on a vessel with heritage, purpose-built for memories, ceremonies, and simple leisure along the Murray.
What you’ll see — river views and the Gol Gol pub vibe
As the Mundoo glides upstream, you’ll drift past riverbank scenery: the gentle bends of the Murray, river
gums dipping their branches, maybe a heron gliding silently across the water — a classic Sunraysia-Murray vista. Once you reach Gol Gol, you’ll dock near the Gol Gol Hotel, a riverside pub with old-world charm that dates from 1877.
From the hotel’s outdoor seating (or indoors if you prefer comfort), the view across the Murray is peaceful and postcard-worthy: water reflecting the sky, tree-lined banks on either side, perhaps a boat gliding past, and that quiet, timeless river ambience that only the Murray can bring. It’s a slice of history and calm — perfect for a relaxed lunch after a morning on the water.
Lunch is purchased at the Bistro at Gol Gol — while the cruise includes the ride and river commentary, food is not included.
Why Wednesday’s cruise stands out (and how to check more)
The Wednesday “Gol Gol Cruise” — 11:30am to 2:30pm — is a dedicated offering by Mildura Paddle Steamers.
While this Wednesday is a lovely opportunity, Mundoo (and sister vessels) also run other regular cruises — 2-hour sightseeing trips, dining cruises or special-event cruises throughout the year.
The option to combine a scenic cruise with a riverside lunch makes this a great short-escape for locals and visitors alike — especially if you want a mellow, scenic break from routine.
For more information contact Mildura Paddle Boat on 50232200
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