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Explore the drama of the South Australian outback with a cruise on the Murray River. Steeped in history, this 7 night cruise is a great blend of historic and nature based experiences aboard the paddlewheel vessel, the PS Murray Princess. The tranquil waterway will take you through ancient gorges and red gum forests with stops at old ports, local vineyards and includes guided nature walks and a range of onshore excursion.
Day 1 – Mannum
You have the choice to make your own way to Mannum for the mid-afternoon departure or join the complimentary coach transfer from Adelaide.
As you set sail from historic Mannum settle into your on-board accommodation. A welcome dinner is served as you cruise up river. You’ll sail under floodlight to the overnight mooring place so keep your eyes peeled for nocturnal wildlife including kangaroos, hairy nosed wombats, tortoises and egrets plus much more.
Day 2 – Wildlife, Water and Wine
Daybreak is a beautiful time on the river and keen photographers will enjoy the wonderful light and morning antics of the wildlife. The birdlife along the river is prolific and you can expect to see pelicans, wrens and swans and you cruise up river to Blanchetown.
As you do you’ll navigate one of the 13 locks which maintain the ebb and flow of the water. The overnight anchorage is opposite Blanchetown, and as the sun begins to set enjoy a guided tour of Burk Salter Boutique Winery with tastings at the cellar door.
Day 3 – Swan Reach and Woolshed History
This morning cruise down river to Swan Reach, a town first settled in the 1850’s when it was the largest of five sheep and cattle stations in the region. The original homestead is now a hotel, where you can enjoy a refreshment overlooking the river (own expense). Join a guided walking tour and visit the Swan Reach Museum.
Continue down river after lunch and enjoy the peace of river life and the world slides by. On arrival at Sunnydale disembark for the Woolshed show, a recreation of typical Australian woolshed history. Later there’s a visit to the Native Wildlife Shelter and then a great Aussie BBQ, prepared and cooked on the banks of the river. There is an optional nocturnal tour available this evening (additional cost).
Day 4 – Aboriginal History and Archaeology
As the vessel cruises slowly past magnificent cliffs scoured by millions of years enjoy the scenery. At the Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve take a step back in time. This is one of Australia’s most significant archaeological sites, dating back tens of thousands of years. Learn more of the area and see the ancient rock carvings on a guided boardwalk tour. Continue downriver to Younghusband, scenic tender rides are also available. There is a Captains Buffet Dinner this evening.
Day 5 – The Barossa Valley
Enjoy a full day onshore excursion today with a visit to the Barossa Valley. This beautiful region produces some world-class wine and you’ll get to learn more with a visit to the Jacobs Creek Visitor Centre. Tempt the taste buds with time to browse at Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop and have lunch at Lambert Estate.
The final stop before heading back to the PS Murray Princess is at Gully Gardens in Angaston.
Day 6: Riverlands
The first bridge across the Murray River was built in 1879 and this rapidly became the bustling township of Murray Bridge. After breakfast you can join a guided tour of the town or, a wildlife tour of Monarto Zoo (additional cost). Enjoy a lunch on board, which will showcase the bounty of produce from the region. This afternoon continue up river to Salt Bush Flat.
Day 7: Wildlife, Flora and Fauna
After breakfast, enjoy a guided nature walk where your guides will share their knowledge of the native flora and fauna before you head back down river.
Near Fromms Landing you’ll head to River View Lodge to board a discovery vessel for a wildlife tour. Travelling in small groups you’ll explore the maze of river and see an array of birdlife along the shoreline. This evening there will be a farewell dinner and dance.
Day 8: Departure
Disembark on arrival back in Mannum after breakfast.
Cruises depart on a Monday from Mannum.
Need more info?
Tel: 01268 735301
Your holiday idea will be unique – not one holiday suits every client. Stay in touch with the latest travel news & holiday ideas by joining our High Flyers Club
Contact us by phone:
Tel: 01708 224000
Book with confidence – We are a member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. All the package and Flight-Plus holidays we sell are covered by a scheme protecting your money if the supplier fails. Other services such as hotels or flights on their own may not be protected and you should ask us what protection is available. More details are available on the ABTA website at https://abta.com/go-travel/before-you-travel/travel-tips/financial-protection-4.
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