This Murray River itinerary is easily one of the most-loved Aussie adventures among our community of over-60 travellers. Guests come back full of praise for the welcoming on-board atmosphere, the delicious dinners, and the crew who will go out of their way to make you feel like family.
Embark on a long weekend adventure aboard the paddlewheeler Murray Princess, cruising between Walker Flat and Murray Bridge. Discover the natural beauty of the lower Murray River, with its stunning landscapes, native flora and fauna, and abundant birdlife. This leisurely journey includes a guided nature walk and a chance to explore the river up close aboard the Dragon-Fly, a flat-bottomed boat designed for wildlife viewing.
During the cruise, you'll visit the historic town of Murray Bridge and have the option to tour the iconic Roundhouse or join an additional excursion to Monarto Safari Park. The journey also includes a tasting of local Riverland wines and regional produce, showcasing the culinary richness of South Australia. Optional post-cruise tours are available for those wanting to explore even more of the Murray's highlights.
The Murray Princess offers a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere with two lounges and a scenic Sun Deck perfect for soaking in river views. Each day begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by a la carte lunches and evening dinners shared with fellow guests. Entertainment onboard adds to the welcoming, social atmosphere of the cruise.
Whether you're spotting birdlife from the Dragon-Fly or strolling along peaceful nature trails, this cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery. With thoughtfully planned excursions and onboard comforts, it's an ideal escape into the heart of South Australia's riverlands.
Cruise Highlights:
While on board, you'll enjoy...
Friday - Cruise departs Mary Ann Reserve, Mannum at 4:30pm
Mid-afternoon the Murray Princess departs historic Mannum, the birthplace of the Murray River trade and communication, and heads downriver while you enjoy a Welcome Dinner. As we cruise under floodlight to our overnight mooring at Murray Bridge, you may see nocturnal wildlife on the riverbank. Watch for kangaroos, hairy-nosed wombats, tortoises, egrets and many other species. Our on-board entertainer provides music for the night owls.
Saturday
In 1879 the first bridge to span the Murray River was built at Edwards Crossing, which quickly became the bustling township of Murray Bridge. After a hearty breakfast, choose to explore the town’s historic landmarks and local attractions, such as the Roundhouse, or go on a wildlife tour at Monarto Safari Park*. Those who choose to experience Monarto Safari Park will arrive back on board the Murray Princess in time for lunch then join us in the Sturt Dining Room for a special presentation on the bounty of food and wine produced in the Riverland. This afternoon, we continue our journey upriver and tonight we moor at Salt Bush Flat. After dinner, enjoy being entertained by our on-board musician.
Sunday
This morning, join a guided nature walk where our guide will share the secrets of the local flora and fauna. It’s a great way to get in a little exercise before the Murray Princess departs and cruises downriver. Near Fromms Landing, we turn and head downriver to River View Lodge (near Piggy Flat / Coolcha) where your discovery vessel awaits for a wildlife tour. Travelling in small, personalised groups, we explore the maze of the river and the birdlife is amazing. Watch for darters, herons and egrets feeding along the river’s muddy edges. The afternoon offers a choice of bocce or fishing challenges before a delicious final night dinner in the Sturt Dining Room.
Monday - Cruise returns to Mary Ann Reserve, Mannum at 9:00am
We head back to Mannum and after breakfast, we reluctantly say farewell as we arrive at the Mannum Wharf.
This is a sample itinerary only and is subject to change due to weather, water levels and other operational requirements. Murray Princess reserves the right to amend itineraries and tours without notice.
Low Season (May, Jun, Jul, Dec 2026 & Jan 2027)
High Season (Apr, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov 2026 & Feb, Mar 2027)
Inside Cabins & Stateroom prices also available - please ask our friendly consultants for more info.
* Prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Outside cabins with twin bedding are located on Randell and Cadell Decks. Each outside cabin opens onto the outside deck walkway with picture windows to view the passing scenery. All cabins come with private bathroom ensuite, electric blankets, soap, shampoo, hairdryers, towels and daily servicing.
While on board the paddlewheeler, you'll enjoy...
Cruise Times - Cruises depart and return to Mannum - recommend arriving into Adelaide prior to 11:30am (please note transfers do not pick up from the airport only Adelaide CBD as per below) The Journey from Adelaide Airport to Mannum is 1hr 45mins. Departing flights at end of cruise recommend departing after 2pm
Adelaide Coach Transfers (additional cost). At time of booking advise where you want to be collected from in Adelaide. Choices are:
Car parking is available at Mannum (additional cost). Please advise at time of booking if you would like a car park spot to be secured for you. Please ensure you arrive at Mannum by 3pm for check in.
Facilities onboard include:
SPECIAL REQUESTS / DIETARY REQUIREMENTS must be advised at the time of booking and/or in completing the Fitness to Travel Declaration. As a guide, we regularly cater for gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, diabetic and non-seafood requirements. We carry a range of gluten free products on-board including gluten free/dairy free bread, a selection of breakfast cereals, gluten free/dairy free margarine, soy milk (light and regular), rice milk, a small selection of sweet biscuits and rice crackers. Upon boarding, please consult with your Passenger Services Attendant and also ensure you bring any prescription medication you may need. Once the vessel departs, Murray Princess is unable to obtain additional supplies or medicines.
FITNESS LEVEL - all passengers are required to complete a Fitness to Travel Declaration 60 days prior to travel. A good level of fitness and health is required to participate in Murray Princess cruises. In some destinations there are extensive sightseeing excursions by foot and which includes climbing of stairs. Mobility is needed boarding or alighting coaches, river cruise ships and mooring locations. Passengers with disabilities or special needs are welcome, provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance. Any disability or medical condition requiring special attention must be reported to your consultant at the time of booking.
The Murray Princess has a tender boat for speedboat rides. Passengers are required to ‘climb’ directly into the tender from the Murray Princess. The deck crew are always on hand to assist and to help passengers with life jackets. During the course of the cruise Murray Princess stops at a number of riverside locations where passengers can go ashore via the gangway. The steepness of the gangway will vary (from steep riverbanks to flat historic wharves). The crew are always on hand to assist passengers ashore. The terrain will also vary depending on river conditions. Rough ground, inclines and sand may provide obstacles to those with limited mobility. Wheelchair access for onshore tours may not be possible.
DRESS CODE - during the day, sportswear and casual clothing is suggested. We kindly ask that you do not wear bathing suits, singlets or brief attire in public rooms and lounges, especially in the dining room. Footwear is requested in both the dining room and lounges at all times. During the evening, smart casual wear is recommended – an open neck shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a dress, skirt or pants and blouse for the ladies. At the Captains Dinner on the final night of the cruise, a jacket and tie would not be out of place for gentlemen and a cocktail dress or pants outfit for the ladies. Be sure to bring a sun visor or hat, sunglasses and good sun block/sun screen. Sandals, low-heeled deck shoes and tennis shoes are most suitable on-deck and for onshore excursions.
ALCOHOL is not to be brought onboard the vessel by passengers due to licensing laws. Bottles of wine purchased from the wineries visited are allowed to be brought back on the vessel but are not to be consumed whilst on board the cruise.
BAGGAGE is limited to what you can stow in your cabins so you would be advised not to over pack. All bags must be clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Bags have to be handled by crew and we would appreciate a weight limit of 15 kilograms per bag.
BIRTHDAYS / SPECIAL OCCASIONS - you may want to order a cake, sparkling wine or make some other celebratory arrangement for that special occasion. Orders need to be given 14 days prior to sailing to ensure we can accommodate your request. Pre-payment is required.
COFFEE AND TEA is complimentary and available in the Paddlewheel Lounge. Espresso coffee is also available for purchase from the Sturt Bar and Paddlewheel Cafe.
DINING aboard the Murray Princess includes delicious table d’hôte, buffets and a la carte menus, plus a special campfire barbecue (weather permitting; seven and four night cruises only). There is one sitting for all meals onboard.
WATER from your cabin tap is not suitable for drinking. Spring water is supplied in your cabin - please feel free to refill your bottle from the filtered water tap available in the Paddlewheel Lounge.
ELECTRICS - the vessel's electricity is AC 240 volts, 50 cycle (standard power used in Australia). A hairdryer is provided in your cabin.
FACILITIES - a gym, sun deck, bar, two lounges, single-sitting dining room, tender boat, gift shop, café, library, lift (Randell, Cadell and Sturt Decks only) and passenger laundry are available for you to use.
GIFT SHOP / CAFE is located on the Randell Deck within the Paddlewheel Lounge and contains a selection of souvenirs, toiletries, clothing and hats. Espresso coffee is also available for purchase. Binoculars are available for loan. Opening times are announced daily.
GRATUITIES is always a personal choice. As a general guide, tipping is not required but is always gratefully received.
LIFT operates between the Sturt, Cadell and Randell Decks and is located at the aft end (rear) of the vessel. The following public rooms are situated on decks without lift access: Chaffey Deck - laundry and gym (accessible by stairwells only); Sun Deck - (accessible by a steep, shallow set of stairs only).
MOBILE PHONES / WI-FI coverage has recently improved along the river but can still be irregular, so please see your Cruise Director or Captain for urgent messages/communication. Free Wi-Fi is available in most areas of the vessel. Coverage may vary along the river. Emergency information can be transmitted to the ship by the Mannum Operations Department.
ONBOARD PURCHASES - for your convenience, we operate an onboard account for each cabin for the duration of your cruise. You may use your cruise account for onboard drinks, souvenirs and some optional onshore tours. Your cruise account must be settled the night prior to disembarkation. AUD$ cash or credit card (Visa and MasterCard) will be accepted for payment of your account; however we advise personal cheques cannot be accepted.
ONSHORE TOURS are available during the cruise.. As a courtesy to your fellow passengers, please be prompt to your marshalling station with any items you may need including sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, hat or walking shoes. Details will be provided in your daily onboard itinerary. You are welcome to stay on board the vessel if you do not wish to participate in excursions.
SMOKING will no longer be permitted on the Murray Princess effective from 1 March 2024. Smoking is allowed onshore, whilst the vessel is moored, with exceptions to fire bans in place.
Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.
Room imagery is for illustration purposes only, actual room layout, furnishing and design may vary. This is subject to availability at the time of check in.