Murraylands & Wildlife River Cruise

T​his itinerary is based on Monday departures. If you travel on a Friday departure the following itinerary will run in reverse.

MONDAY

Mid-afternoon the Murray Princess departs historic Mannum, the birthplace of the Murray River trade and communication, and heads upriver while you enjoy a Welcome Dinner. As we cruise under floodlight to our overnight mooring at Caurnamont, 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.

TUESDAY

Daybreak and it’s time for the keen photographers to be out to capture the special light and the morning movement of wildlife. Prolific birdlife includes pelicans, wrens and swans. Enjoy a leisurely morning and lunch cruising upriver to Blanchetown through one of 13 locks which maintain the flow and levels of the river’s water. This afternoon we moor opposite to the township of Blanchetown for our overnight anchorage. As the last rays of the sun fade, we visit Burk Salter Boutique Winery and enjoy wine tasting at the cellar door which is fitted out with beautiful red gum bars. After dinner, join us for all the fun and excitement, and participate in our “Murray River Cup”.

WEDNESDAY

After breakfast we cruise downriver to picturesque Swan Reach. The original Swan Reach homestead is now the Swan Reach Hotel where you can enjoy an ale or cappuccino overlooking the Murray River (additional cost). Join a walking tour and visit the Swan Reach Museum (gold coin donation at entry). Cruise downriver after lunch and take in the tranquillity as the landscape slides by. Catch up with friends over a coffee or drink whilst enjoying the magnificent scenery. When we arrive at Sunnydale, it’s all ashore for the Woolshed Show as we recreate typical Australian woolshed history. Later we visit the Native Wildlife Shelter where some of South Australia’s most interesting native animals are cared for. And then of course, there is the great Aussie Barbecue – cooked and served in a bush setting on the banks of the mighty Murray River. Optional tour: Sunnydale Nocturnal Tour. Additional cost and bookings can be made on board through your Guest Services Attendant. For details, see ‘Optional Onshore Tours & Activities’ in your Cruising Guide.

THURSDAY

After an optional early morning Bush Tucker Breakfast* or bush walk with the Captain, the vessel cruises slowly downriver past magnificent cliffs scoured by the river over millions of years. We reach Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve, one of Australia’s most significant archaeological sites, for a step back in time – tens of thousands of years – for a guided boardwalk tour to view ancient rock carvings and to learn about Aboriginal history in the area. We return to the vessel to cruise downriver to Younghusband.Along the way, adventure seekers can also take a scenic tender boat ride. Tonight, join your fellow guests for a delicious dinner in the Sturt Dining Room followed by an evening of entertainment. *Optional tour: Bush Tucker Breakfast. Additional cost and bookings can be made on board through your Guest Services Attendant. For details, see ‘Optional Onshore Tours & Activities’ in your Cruising Guide.

FRIDAY

We leave Younghusband and head back to Mannum. After breakfast, depart Mannum by coach to the famous Barossa, the beautiful ‘valley of the vine’ and the source of about a quarter of Australia’s world-renowned wines. You will visit Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre for a light morning tea and wine tasting and enjoy a two-course lunch at Lambert Estate where you’ll have time to take in the views of this popular vineyard. Then it’s on to the stunning Seppeltsfield Barossa, where we participate in a short walking tour. Following the tour, a tasting of a fortified wine accompanied by an Owen Andrews Artisan Cuisine chocolate pecan brownie is included in a private setting. For those who choose to upgrade their experience at Seppelstfield, ‘A Taste of History Tour’ (additional cost) is available following the walking tour. Guests will be taken into the historic 1878 Centennial Cellar. Guests will then taste the legendary 100 year old Para Vintage Tawny. This is truly a once in a lifetime wine experience. Return to Mannum and re-board the Murray Princess and cruise towards Mundurra for your overnight mooring. Our onboard 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 join a guided tour of the town’s historic landmarks and local attractions 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 byour talented crew. *Optional tour: Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour.Pre-bookings are essential, additional cost. For details, see ‘Optional Onshore Tours & Activities’ in your Cruising Guide.

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

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 dueto weather, water levels and other operational requirements.Murray Princess reserves the right to amend itinerariesand tours without notice.

Multiple departure between 01 April 2024 to 31 March 2025:

• Inside Cabin - 2 x Single Beds, from $2,799pp twin share
• Inside Cabin - 1 x Double Bed, from $2,859pp twin share
• Outside Cabin - 2 x Single Beds, from $3,899pp twin share
• Outside Cabin - 1 x Double Bed, from $3,959pp twin share
• Stateroom - 1 x Queen Bed, from $5,089pp twin share

A​re you a solo traveller?

• Inside Cabin - 2 x Single Beds, from $4,059pp sole use
• Inside Cabin - 1 x Double Bed, from $4,119pp sole use
• Outside Cabin - 2 x Single Beds, from $5,654pp sole use
• Outside Cabin - 1 x Double Bed, from $5,714pp sole use
• Stateroom - 1 x Queen Bed, from $7,379pp sole use

Cruise departs Mannum on selected Mondays and Fridays at 4:00 pm. Returns to Mannum the following Monday or Friday 9:00 am.

P​rice is subject to change without prior notice.

The PS Murray Princess is a true inland paddlewheeler built for the Murray River, with a character and charm of yesteryear. It is the largest inland paddlewheeler in the southern hemisphere. Catering for just 120 passengers, she brings the unique advantages of small ship cruising to the remarkable setting of Australia’s outback.

Don't be fooled by most modern-day imitation paddlewheelers where the paddle is often on the side and just for show. The PS Murray Princess is an authentic paddlewheeler which is propelled by its massive stern wheel. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and informal by style. The lounge features a majestic view of the paddlewheel in action through the two story viewing window. Upper and lower lounge areas are accessed by the classic brass and mahogany style spiral staircase.

The PS Murray Princess cruises between Mannum, Murray Bridge and Salter's Station along the Murray River. The wetlands in this area provide essential breeding and feeding habitats for many species of waterbirds, fish, invertebrates and plants, meaning that you'll see the wonderful wildlife in this outback setting.

DRESS: 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.

ADELAIDE COACH TRANSFERS: Subject to availability – pre-bookings are essential.Coach transfers are available to/from the Adelaide CBD as well as a return to Adelaide Airport.

• Coach Transfers from Adelaide to Mannum and return $100 per person

PRIVATE CAR TRANSFERS: Additional charges apply and pre-bookings are essential. Private car transfers are available to/from the Adelaide CBD as well as a return to Adelaide Airport.

CAR PARKING: Subject to availability – pre-bookings are essential. Car parking is available at Mannum (advise at time of booking if required)

• Secure car parking in Mannum (7 days) $105 per vehicle