Discover the dramatic South Australian outback on a cruise along Australia’s great inland highway. This seven-night cruise is a unique historic and nature-based adventure through ancient gorges and red gum forests, past towering sandstone cliffs, and exploring historic ports, local vineyards, and nature trails. Enjoy leisurely cruising 320 kilometres of the heart of the great Murray River between Blanchetown and Murray Bridge and take in the breathtaking Riverland. On the grand paddlewheel vessel, the Murray Princess, you will experience a great variety of sights and sounds of river life, the beauty of its ever-changing landscape, visit historic places and indigenous sites, enjoy a woolshed and station experience, and follow the region’s food and wine trail.
This cruise also includes a complimentary Highlights of the Murray coach tour.
On the 7 Night Murraylands & Wildlife Cruise , you'll have the opportunity to...
PLUS
Please note that these activities may be subject to change.
While on board, you'll enjoy...
Facilities
7-NIGHT MURRAYLANDS & WILDLIFE CRUISE ITINERARY (DEPART MONDAY)
DEPARTURE/ARRIVAL
Cruise departs Mary Ann Reserve, Mannum, on selected Mondays at 4:30 pm and returns to Mannum the following Monday at 9:00 am.
Your Travel Document will include your coach transfer, private transfer or car parking details if arrangements have been made.
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 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 costs and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger 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 Conservation Park, 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 passengers for a delicious dinner in the Sturt Dining Room, followed by an evening of entertainment.
*Optional tour: Bush Tucker Breakfast. Additional costs and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger Services Attendant. For details, see ‘Optional Onshore Tours & Activities’ in your Cruising Guide.
FRIDAY
We leave Younghusband and head back to Mannum. After breakfast, step off the Murray Princess for a coach tour showcasing the iconic sights along the river.
Tour the township and visit the Mannum Dock Museum, before joining the ferry to cross the river and drive through Younghusband to Bowhill, where you will learn about the township while admiring the stunning riverfront homes.
Head to the Swan Reach Hotel, situated atop golden cliffs with picturesque views, and enjoy a delicious lunch and the warm country hospitality
Learn about the local farming district on your way to the Big Bend Cliffs, renowned as the tallest river cliffs in Australia. At the lookout, marvel at the longest continuous bend along the entire Muray River - a breathtaking sight.
Return to Mannum and there’s free time to grab some afternoon tea or an ice cream before you re-board the Murray Princess and cruise towards Murray Bridge 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 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 onboard musician.
*Optional tour: Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour. Pre-bookings are essential, with an 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 due to weather, water levels, and other operational requirements. Murray Princess reserves the right to amend itineraries and tours without notice.
OR
7 NIGHT MURRAYLANDS & WILDLIFE CRUISE ITINERARY (DEPART FRIDAY)
DEPARTURE/ARRIVAL
Cruise departs Mary Ann Reserve, Mannum, on selected Fridays at 4:30 pm and returns to Mannum the following Friday at 9:00 am.
Your Travel Document will include your coach transfer, private transfer, or car parking details if arrangements have been made.
FRIDAY
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 onboard musician.
*Optional tour: Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour.
Pre-bookings are essential, with an 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 dinner in the Sturt Dining Room, followed by an evening of entertainment.
MONDAY
We leave River View Lodge and head back to Mannum. After breakfast, step off the Murray Princess for a coach tour showcasing the iconic sights along the river.
Tour the township and visit the Mannum Dock Museum, before joining the ferry to cross the river and drive through Younghusband to Bowhill, where you will learn about the township while admiring the stunning riverfront homes.
Head to the Swan Reach Hotel, situated atop golden cliffs with picturesque views, and enjoy a delicious lunch and the warm country hospitality.
Learn about the local farming district on your way to the Big Bend Cliffs, renowned as the tallest river cliffs in Australia. At the lookout, marvel at the longest continuous bend along the entire Muray River - a breathtaking sight.
Return to Mannum and there’s free time to grab some afternoon tea or an ice cream before you re-board the Murray Princess and cruise towards Caurnamont for your overnight mooring. Our onboard 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 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 town was first settled in the 1850s, was originally the largest of five sheep and cattle stations in the area, and is now home to native flower and fruit growers.
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 costs and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger 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 Conservation Park, 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 passengers for a delicious final night dinner and enjoy the evening entertainment.
*Optional tour: Bush Tucker Breakfast. Additional costs and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger Services Attendant. For details, see ‘Optional Onshore Tours & Activities’ in your Cruising Guide.
FRIDAY
We leave Younghusband and head back to Mannum. 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 2026
High Season - April 2026
* Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Inside Stateroom
Cozy and comfortable, the Inside Stateroom offers a peaceful retreat with all the essentials for your journey. Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing space without windows, this accommodation features modern amenities, ample storage, and a private bathroom.
Outside Stateroom
Enjoy natural light and scenic views from your Outside Stateroom. Equipped with a private window or porthole, this cabin combines comfort and convenience, letting you wake up to the ever-changing river landscapes.
Stateroom with Balcony (or Stateroom with Private Veranda)
Step out onto your private balcony and soak in uninterrupted views of the Murray River. These staterooms offer extra space, modern comforts, and a serene spot to unwind, sip your morning coffee, or watch the sunset over the water.
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.