South Australia · Attraction
PS Oscar W Paddle Steamer
Steam and paddle on the Murray
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Built in 1908, PS Oscar W is a wood-fired heritage paddle steamer that still cruises under steam power from Goolwa Wharf, making it one of a handful of working wood-fired vessels left on the Murray River system. Volunteer crews offer regular one-hour historical cruises and longer twilight and luncheon voyages to Clayton Bay.
The vessel departs from Hector's Jetty in the Goolwa Wharf Precinct on the first and third Sundays of most months, with additional sailings on public holidays and special events. The one-hour historical cruise passes the Goolwa Barrages and offers views across Lake Alexandrina toward the Coorong. Passengers can watch the steam engine and paddle wheel operating from open deck areas.
Longer options include a twilight cruise and a six-hour luncheon cruise to Clayton Bay. Private charters for up to 45 passengers can be arranged most days subject to crew availability. The volunteer crew welcome questions and explain the vessel's mechanics during all sailings.
The adjacent Riverport Heritage Centre at the wharf precinct provides context for Goolwa's paddle-steamer era, when the town rivalled Sydney and Melbourne as a river port and up to 60 steamers worked the Murray trade. Entry to the Heritage Centre is separate from cruise tickets.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near PS Oscar W Paddle Steamer.
3 options via our booking partner
BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park
10.8km away
NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park
16.6km away
Victor Harbor Holiday Park
16.9km away
Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Scenic views
