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Reviews of PS Federal romantic retreat

PS Federal romantic retreat
Goolwa, SA

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 62 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 62 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 62 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 62 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 62 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Grant

Travelled with partner
A great little something different. Peaceful and tranquil beside the water.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Toni K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique experience in Goolwa
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.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shoni N.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Essence of Peace and Quiet Tranquillity!
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!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stewart M.

Liked: Cleanliness
What a surprise
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 :)
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gaynor S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Idyllic stay
It was so relaxing. Everything was provided. Lovely breakfast etc. Love it we will be back
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lyndall C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A very different overnight stay
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
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emma T.

Liked: Cleanliness
A beautiful piece of history. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Can’t fault anything
The experience we had will remain with us forever. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from reality.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jed C.

Liked: Cleanliness
An Amazing Spot
My first experience away and spent it with my partner enjoying the breeze and sitting out side. Very much worth the stay
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Margie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peace
Perfect spot to relax, regenerate and enjoy the beautiful bird life. Hire a bike or go for a walk to cafes near by. Though we'll equipped galley with provisions for a good cup of coffee and breakfast.....Who needs a Cafe?
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pam B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Restful, peaceful & comfy stay with a view
When u choose accommodation which is a little random but end up finding it so incredibly peaceful that you just stop, listen & observe because u actually can't help but do anything else... water, reeds, birds (so many species), fish, dragonflies, lizards, sunrise, sunset. Beds were comfy, whole place was very clean, bathroom facilities were great (water pump maybe a little noisy when re-filling the cistern). The paddle steamer sits on a frame off the water so does not rock in the water. We had such a great stay, great cafe within 10min walk, (& 5min drive to Goolwa) yet we felt like we were the only people within miles. Communication with property owners was exceptional. We would definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mervyn S., Port Noarlunga south south Australia

Liked: Cleanliness
Quirky but amazing. The most relaxing and peaceful place I've ever stayed.
Did not want to leave.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Udani W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing getaway
We enjoyed our stay and can’t wait to go back. Amazing views and great hospitality form the hosts. It’s a magical place where time stood still and made us reconnect with nature.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique stay!
Enjoyed our stay. Great photo spot.

10/10 Excellent

John T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent stay for the serenity and privacy.
Very easy to organise and very happy with the experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gabriella K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely wonderful!
A unique gem! This boat is gorgeous and full of character with the owners very thoughtfully leaving lots of little extra touches. Beautiful secluded spot with abundant birdlife. Perfect for kayaking, swimming and relaxing. Thankyou Beth and Dan, we give your old girl 11 out of 10!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

8/10 Good

Adelaide A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique and revitalising
Lovely unique getaway with a highlight of a seal popping by to say hello and watching the lovely bird life every morning.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jo H.

Liked: Cleanliness
A private getaway
Just such a peaceful geataway. Looking out on the scenery was lovely.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Allwyn D., Adelaide

Liked: Cleanliness
Truly relaxing
When my wife booked this place I was slightly apprehensive but that reservation immediately faded when we arrived. You are greeted with a beautifully weathered board walk fringed by towering reeds on either side of you that leads to the PS FEDERAL steeped in history. The accommodation is basic and nothing fancy but we like that about the stay; it adds to the charm. The natural surroundings, abundant bid life just relaxes you and begs you to forgo modern technology and take in the peace and tranquility. Highly recommended and if I have to provide some feedback then additional kitchen utensils to compliment the pots and pans would be nice, other than that folks come here to relax and watch and hear the water move before and around you.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Caspian B.

Liked: Cleanliness
An absolute gem.
A novel and charming location. The host was amazingly friendly and helpful and the PS Federal oozes character. Beautifully presented B&B in a stunning location. Thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Carol B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magnificent
Unique accommodation, beautifully presented with homely touches, peaceful surroundings, highly recommended. 😊

10/10 Excellent

Detlef B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Something different
It was different from your usual accommodation which was an experience to try. I would of preferred Australian made products supplied for the breakfast but that’s just me. If you are tall just watch your heads which I found out being 6’2”. Loved the sunrise over the water.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020

6/10 Okay

Kerry S.

Relax and unwind
This is an ideal getaway if you want to sit back and relax. The surrounding bird life is hypnotic to watch. However it is not suited for hot weather as there is no aircon and the fans are not adequate. Also not suitable for tall people.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you Kerry for your review. Unfortunately that time Adelaide hit the northern wind with 42 degrees. The hottest weather in that month. Most of the time the River Murray always have a cool breeze.

10/10 Excellent

Sharman L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unbelievable!
The best BnB ever! A fabulous experience. We’re definitely coming back and staying much longer. It was so relaxing just soaking in the historic atmosphere and watching the swans glide and preen.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Doug P.

unique place to stay
We keep going back for the peace and tranquility...
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Barry G.

Brilliant location
What a great place to stay. So peaceful you can’t help but unwind. This was our second time staying onboard the Federal and it was as good as the first. Unfortunately we had to leave early but we’ll be back another day.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Doug P.

unique and amazing
There is nowhere that is as unique as the Federal. It is for wild life lovers and for people who want to get away from the every day mayhem. Our hosts Beth and Dan have thought of everything to make for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. We have been numerous times and will certainly be going again. That is the best recommendation that can be given to any holiday let.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

sharon o.

excellent
beautiful boat and wildlife outstanding
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

LYNETTE F., SWAN REACH SA

fantastic, home away from home
What can i say .. every thing was catered for... from home comforts... [ every thing was so clean ] , to all the necessaries in the pantry and well catered breckie to suit every bodys dietary requirements, the fresh flowers all around the place where beautiful and not to forget the bottle of wine and then there are the views and tranquility , the beautiful birds that visit every morning and evening for there little tit bits... plenty of seating around the boat if your a sun chaser like us or if you just like to sit in the lounge and look at the views or read a book ... our only disappointment was ...... when we asked for an extra night they where all ready booked out our loss there gain we know to book for longer next time..... We are all ready starting to plain our next visit THANK YOU BETH its was wounderful break for us

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl F.

Fabulous historic paddlesteamer, perfectly positioned for serenity and peace!
Love the history and character of this old steamboat, it was beautifully presented by Beth who left us lavishly supplied with breakfast goodies and even wine on arrival. The two queen beds were really comfortable, P S Federal is positioned perfectly for peace and scenic beauty! Loved the sunrises and sunsets! Lots of thoughtful additions, like books and games. Of course an old historic boat has limitations, particularly electrically and care needs to be taken getting around, just arrive expecting these realities and you will love her! A longer visit is planned. Thanks so much for sharing your precious price of history with us Beth
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Allison G., Woodcroft

Amazing
It was just amazing. Everything is there to make it so comfortable. Will be back
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca S.

Absolutely amazing, photos dont do it justice!!!
Really peaceful beaitiful place. Really comfy beds had a great nights sleep. Will be booking to come back again.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2018

6/10 Okay

luc l.

5 stars for originality, 2 stars for the quality
For people searching an original and a quiet place, it’s a good deal. The house is quite well equipped and relatively comfortable if you consider the fact that it’s a very old boat, on the water, without any connection to the main power. Now, when you compare the price you pay with other offers, if you want to be honest with other competitors with amazing places, you cannot give more than 2 stars for this place. All the stuff looks DIY and the global impression is like a very low-cost cabin in any campground. I will not consider anymore this housing.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2018