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.

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.

 

*Optional tour: Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour. Pre-bookings are essential, additional cost.

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.

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”.

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 cost and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger Services Attendant.

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 cost and bookings can be made on board through your Passenger Services Attendant.

We leave Younghusband and head back to Mannum. After breakfast we reluctantly say farewell as we arrive at the Mannum Wharf.