Guest Reviews

Wow what a week! We have just returned from a luxurious week abord the Boatel Riverdream Luxury Houseboat on the Murray River. We boarded the boat at Bruce's Bend just outside of Mildura and were welcomed by Rob the man who actually does it all. A great induction on how to and where followed up with Maps, charts and places to go and see and where to moor at night and how to moor. At the end of the induction, Rob took the houseboat out of the moorings and onto the Murray River, once assured we knew what we were doing he left in his Zodiac. There were 4 couples aboard and we had been waiting for this trip for 12 months (so we could all get the time off together). The boat is fully equipped with individual ensuites in each stateroom and every cup, glass, plate, cooking implement a chef could want. We visited wineries pubs, restaurants and had a ball. It was the most relaxing holiday for all and we would do it again if we can get our schedules to align as we travelled from Brisbane and Tasmania to meet up. I would thoroughly recommend the Boatel to people who want that holiday with fun and adventure as a highlight.

Luxury afloat on the Murray - 22nd - 29th August, 2025 Eight family members have just completed an exceptional 7 day houseboat experience on the Murray River out of Mildura, Victoria, on an incredible vessel, the Riverdream Boatel. The name says it all, floating 5 star luxury, on the magnificent Murray River. More of a spaceship than a boat, featuring 5 ensuited King staterooms, all with floor to ceiling river views. A sweeping staircase encased in glass leads to the upper deck, with a vast open plain area that includes a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, glass top dining table for 10 guests, complete with high backed button chairs and table candelabra. Comfortable chesterfield leather lounge suites, complete the scene of pure elegance. Fully airconditioned and a gas fireplace. The back deck has a great gas BBQ along with casual seating and fantastic views. This was truly a unique opportunity for our family to enjoy the peace and serenity of slowly sailing the reaches of this world class river, being amazed by scenery, bird life and history. There are opportunities to moor at the Trentham Winery, Gol Gol hotel, cafes and even a golf course for those interested. All mooring with easy access. The boat is large and draws attention everywhere we went along the river for its looks and design. It is a credit to Cheryl to be able to offer such floating magnificence. Self catering is made a breeze with arrangements with local merchants, who can supply all requirements, deliver and pack into pantry, frig, freezer or ice chests. We have no hesitation in recommending this adventure to anyone wishing to enjoy a relaxed, luxury holiday. We 8 had a fabulous time, dancing, eating and drinking ( possibly too much) and just making the most of what the vessel and the river had to offer. Also a big thank you to Rob, for his introduction to the Boatel and tution on manoeuvring and mooring of the vessel. His was contactable at all times just in case. Don't hesitate , book now, for the best luxury holiday you can imagine. Many, many thanks Cheryl, you have excelled. Pam and Robert

10 of us had a lovely relaxing 4 nights on Boatel Riverdream in March 2025. There was plenty of room for all 10 of us dining, lounging and around the kitchen. Bedrooms were individually airconditioned and each had its own ensuite and TV with sliding doors to outside. Cheryl was great to deal with and Rob got us onboard and sorted. Some fished, some read, some walked and some sipped. Love to go every year.

This was a lovely experience, truly amazing, I need to give the Boatel 4.5, not 4, but not able to. We all had a great time, each bedroom is really comfortable and having ensuites for each AND a toilet upstairs is the perfect setup. So many little things, especially in the kitchen, with so much equipment, everything you could possibly think of. The fridges, so great having enough fridge and freezer space for everything, and eskies on the deck, perfect for all the drinks! May in Mildura is amazing, beautiful weather and such a beautiful river, don't miss Trentham Estate for lunch, food and wine is truly a highlight.

A Truly First-Class Experience Afloat – Boatel Riverdream I’ve been fortunate enough to stay in some exceptional places around the world, but few experiences have left an impression quite like my Easter on the Boatel Riverdream. From the moment we stepped aboard, it was clear this wasn’t just a houseboat — it was a floating sanctuary of style, comfort, and understated luxury. The design is impeccable: every detail, from the elegant interiors to the thoughtfully appointed outdoor spaces, speaks of care and quality. Whether enjoying a glass of wine on the deck as the sun set over the river, or waking to the peaceful sounds of nature gently stirring, each moment felt curated for relaxation. What truly sets Riverdream apart, though, is the atmosphere — a rare blend of serenity and sophistication that makes you feel instantly at ease, yet subtly indulged. It’s not easy to strike that balance, but this boat delivers it in spades. Easter on the Boatel with close friends was unforgettable. It’s the kind of experience that lingers long after you disembark. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone seeking something truly special — a first-class escape, right on the water.

Five Star all the way from the roominess and comfort of the boat to the relaxed atmosphere whilst enjoying the beauty of the mighty Murray. Add that to good company, food and wine and it ticks all the boxes. Thanks for the memories……

Cheryl and Rob and everyone involved in our 5 nights onboard the Boatel were amazing. The houseboat is incredible with great private and group spaces. Attention to detail is something that the crew pride themselves on and they did not disappoint. We would highly recommend.

Riverdream Boatel! The name says it all. From the first view of this magnificent vessel on the river, our excitement brewed. There was 9 of us, a group that had travelled together since 2002. A wedding anniversary group. On boarding we found five 5star bedrooms, each with a 5star ensuite. The safety talk before we left (with relaxing music in the background) was daunting, but within 30 minutes we were away. The next 7 days were, as the boat says, a dream. The serenity of the river, nature’s beauty, golden sunsets, camaraderie, relaxation, and FUN, was offset by the ready assistance if we needed it, deliveries to the boat, arriving to find all shopping and alcohol stashed away, and the kindness and friendliness of every person we came across. Mildura and Gol Gol will remain in our hearts forever. For anyone who is contemplating a houseboat holiday, or not sure where to holiday next, let me recommend THE RIVERDREAM BOATEL! Cheryl Broadbent and her crew are a “dream” to deal with.

We as a family have just spent the most wonderful week on the Boatel WOW,,, the many memories we made whilst on it are forever etched in our hearts..From being greeted by Rob and given an onboard tour and explaining all we needed to know , to living in absolute luxury, making everyday count.The decor was amazing. To Cheryle & Alan so nice to meet you both , but no amount of words can say Thank you for allowing us this special time on your beautiful boat. We as a family 10 of us , the week went so quickly we wished we had 2 weeks. Everyday we made a memory, fishing, BBQs campfires singalongs cards and wineries . Stand tall and proud of what you both have achieved ,with such a great asset to Tourism in Mildura.We certainly shared our stay on the Boatel with many locals and tourists. Regards The Jaensch&Bannam Families.

What a wonderful experience! From the moment you step on board the Boatel you are greeted by elegant opulence. First impressions are that it’s more like stepping into a 5-star hotel foyer than onto a houseboat. The five bedrooms downstairs are well appointed with quality fittings, linen and toiletries. The supplies were plentiful, the showers hot with plenty of pressure and each cabin and adjoining ensuite was tastefully decorated with sufficient room for two people to ready themselves easily for dinner upstairs. As expected, the bedroom suites were well presented and meticulously clean. From the front entrance sitting area the sweeping staircase beckons you upstairs. The window walls and domed glass ceiling backdrop the staircase to perfection. The first glimpse of the upstairs, as you ascend the wide curved staircase, is quite mesmerising. So many things to take in at once! The richness of the chesterfield lounge, the designer kitchen, the hanging glassware, the separate bar, the wall of pantry and refrigeration and the dining area awaiting the banquet to follow! There is an abundance of cupboards and fittings in the designer kitchen. The appliances, kitchen accessories, glassware, crockery, cutlery, linen are all of the finest quality and in sufficient quantity for feasts to follow banquets for the duration of your voyage. The dining area is comfortable, large and inviting - guaranteeing the table conversation will linger long into the evening. The outside area of the boat is casual and sufficiently large to allow those onboard to bask in the sun or gaze at the dazzling sunsets. The helm takes pride of place in the upstairs living area and is an imposing feature with its many dials, gauges and controls. However, the panoramic aspect gives the captain great visibility as the Boatel glides its way along the Murray and past the ageless red cliffs. The controls are easy to manage and the motors powerful enough manoeuvre this fine vessel through the waters with grace and ease. There is sufficient air-conditioning throughout the cabins and living area to maintain a comfortable environment. It was only on the extreme days of 45C that the upstairs system struggled at the peak of the day but soon recovered as we eased past the top temperature. By comparison the cabins remained cool throughout. The diesel generator was quiet and provided a constant supply of power for the air-conditioners and other appliances. It required no operator intervention to check battery levels or to stop/start manually, providing seamless power supply throughout the journey. The atmosphere of the Boatel evokes a sense of indulgence - just add good food, good wine and good friends. The result will be fantastic memories that will stay with you long after your journey has concluded and will be the starter to many conversations with your friends for years to come. Finally, Cheryl was a delight to deal with and made the whole process of booking the Boatel a breeze. The written information provided was comprehensive and Cheryl checked in regularly to make sure that everything was in order. Similarly, the marina staff were friendly and courteous. Our trip went off without a hitch, a good time was had by all and it is with pleasure that I recommend the Boatel for any special occasion that you and your family and friends may wish to celebrate.