PS Federal romantic retreat

Goolwa, South Australia
$161 avg/night Minimum Stay 2 Nights
Bed 2

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Home Bed & Breakfast

Property Type

Sleep 4

Max Sleeps

Night 2 nights

Min Stay

Eco-friendly, off grid solar powered (12 volts) system. Renewable energy for less impact on the environment.

The PS Federal paddle steamer built in 1902 now rests on stilts in the River Murray adjacent the bird sanctuary where spoon-billed cranes, pelicans, black swan families, egret, purple swamp hens, dusky moorhens and black-winged stilt reside. Ideally located on River within walking distance of Goolwa beach.

Relaxation and leisure time are so important and you will unwind as soon as you step aboard the PS Federal!

Bottle of wine provided to welcome you on arrival. Cereal, milk, bread, tea, coffee, bacon & eggs for first morning of your stay. A vegetarian option is available upon request. Towels and bed linen are supplied.

Guests have complete privacy as PS Federal is fully self contained accommodation.

Not just a place to stay but a unique accommodation experience on the Fleurieu Peninsula on board the Paddle Steamer P.S. FEDERAL.


87 kilometres from Adelaide
and close to the River Mouth where the Murray River completes its journey and joins the Southern Ocean.

It's ideally located for sailing windsurfing, and skiing and yet is within walking distance of the lovely township of Goolwa.

This pristine location has the calmness of being on the River Murray as well as the energising surf of Goolwa Beach just a short walk around the corner.
Close to the best local cuisine: Aquacaf on the River and just around the corner on Goolwa Beach are the most delicious fish burgers and gourmet menu at Bombora.

Getting around:

Trips on the Wood fired Paddle Steamer Oscar W
Steam Train trips to Victor Harbor
Tours to the Coorong
Lots of interesting walks
South Lakes Golf Club
Goolwa Markets
Bike Hire
Wineries

Property

Two upstairs bedrooms, large lounge and kitchen downstairs. Scenic windows waterside with views of Hindmarsh Island and bird sanctuary as well as upper and lower decks with outdoor seating.

Please take care of this beautiful old boat, she's 113 years old!

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  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Rates & Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • MORE

    Books Smoke-free Property Video Library
  • LANGS SPOKEN

    English
  • ACCESSIBILITY

    If You Have Requests For Specific Accessibility Needs, Please Contact The Property Using The Information On The Reservation Confirmation Received After Booking. This Property Does Not Have Elevators Upper Floors Accessible By Stairs Only
  • GUEST SERVICES

    Golf Privileges (optional)
  • FAMILY FRIENDLY

    Children's Books DVD Player Dining Table Kitchen Refrigerator
  • ACTIVITIES NEARBY

    Adjacent To A Golf Course Birdwatching Cycling Ecotours Fishing Fitness Center Access Jet Skiing Sailing Surfing/body Boarding Swimming Water Skiing Whale Watching Windsurfing Winery Tours
  • BEDROOM

    Bed Sheets Heating
  • BATHROOM

    Towels
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    DVD Player TV
  • OUTDOOR SPACE

    Balcony
  • FOOD AND DRINK

    Cookware/dishes/utensils Dining Table Kitchen Oven Refrigerator Stovetop

CheckIn Check-in : 02:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 10:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 4

Map Map

School District Rates & Availability

Review Review

  • Grant

    Submitted Oct 18, 2023

    Stayed Oct 16, 2023

    A great little something different. Peaceful and tranquil beside the water.

  • Submitted Jul 10, 2021

    Stayed Jul 5, 2021

    I loved the balance of seclusion, off grid, nature & the local community with modern facilities just in case you want to get a takeout and bring back and dine on the deck of your charming over a century old boat that have obviously been lovingly maintained. My only wish was that there was a bed downstairs as there was no toilet upstairs. The air was a little chill for me the heating from downstairs doesn’t reach upstairs and I do like to read in bed. Would also love to have my parents along for the trip as they would adore the boat but they would have a difficult time navigating the stairs to get to their bed. The PS Federal will restore your vitality and remind you that spending time with nature is important for our well being and healthy for our mind & soul.

  • Submitted Jun 20, 2021

    Stayed Jun 13, 2021

    An amazing quirky experience in a cosey boat with the most amazing bird life and wonderful natural views. Beth was so flexible and helpful. Loved it so much and we will be back. Thank you

  • LH

    Submitted Dec 17, 2025

    Stayed Dec 15, 2025

    A very old riverboat with great amenities, in a wonderful location on the edge of the river surrounded by birdlife and reed beds. Exceptional breakfast provided also.

  • Colin S.

    Submitted Sep 7, 2025

    Stayed Sep 6, 2025

    Whilst it was only one night. We loved it. So magical to sit and watch dusk fall over the water. Everything we needed was there, and wow the beds were so warm it was great.

  • Anne H.

    Submitted Jul 3, 2025

    Stayed Jun 20, 2025

    A beautiful relaxing weekend getaway

  • Linda M.

    Submitted Oct 27, 2024

    Stayed Oct 23, 2024

    Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Comfy bed with beautiful water views. Waking to the sounds of birds. Generous breakfast provisions were very welcome.

  • Amanda P.

    Submitted Oct 8, 2024

    Stayed Oct 7, 2024

    Wonderful

  • Toni K.

    Submitted May 21, 2023

    Stayed May 9, 2023

    PS Federal is basic accomodation but very enjoyable. We were treated to a fabulous array of breakfast goodies. It was warm and comfortable for 3 adults passing through Goolwa. The surrounding water ways are very peaceful with lots of birds to watch.

  • Shoni N.

    Submitted Feb 3, 2023

    Stayed Jan 29, 2023

    A terrific getaway from all the hustle and bustle life can bring.Forget sightseeing, you will want to stay on the boat, and just soak up the atmosphere! This place is a real hidden gem, and I will definitely come back again.Thanks so much Beth and Dan, we loved our time here on your paddle steamer, and it was lovely to meet you both - see you next time!

  • Stewart M.

    Submitted Jan 17, 2023

    Stayed Jan 5, 2023

    Upon arrival we thought 'what are we in for'. The boat was tucked away in the reeds and couldn't be seen from the parking spot, but, what a surprise. The online pictures don't do it justice, absolutely beautiful. Exactly as we expected. The lower deck is very comfortable and the 2 Bedrooms are perfect. Initial concerns about 1 Bathroom were put to rest, good size and very clean. Breakfast provisions were spot on and appreciated. We'll be back :)

  • Gaynor S.

    Submitted Oct 14, 2022

    Stayed Oct 13, 2022

    It was so relaxing. Everything was provided. Lovely breakfast etc. Love it we will be back

  • Lyndall C.

    Submitted Mar 21, 2022

    Stayed Mar 17, 2022

    Our hosts provided a very clean, comfortable, well appointed and well provisioned paddle steamer. PS Federal is set on the banks of the Murray River at Goolwa SA, amidst the rushes and a view of the first barrage on the Murray. Fish and birds everywhere and a full moon to ensure a beautiful evening. Thank you Beth

Your dates are Available!

Total

Includes taxes and fees
$161+
View details