Murraylands & Wildlife River Cruise

This 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, 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 icecream 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 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 due to weather, water levels and other operational requirements.Murray Princess reserves the right to amend itineraries and tours without notice.*