The Murray River
The mighty Murray River carves its way some 650 kilometres through South Australia before it enters the Southern Ocean at Goolwa on the Fleurieu Peninsula . With more than 40 national parks located along the river , the region is rich in wildlife with many species of birds , fish and native animals . The golden age of the paddle steamer , when there were dozens plying the waters of the Murray carrying passengers and goods , have long departed but there are still a few grand old ladies on the water and they ’ re a great way to absorb the landscape and history of this region . Spend some time exploring the Riverland region ’ s orchards and wineries ; it produces almost all of Australia ’ s citrus fruit and stonefruit . It ’ s also a great family destination ; hire a houseboat and explore the river , or just find a favourite sandy beach on the riverbank and spend a few lazy days fishing , swimming , canoeing and waterskiing .
© SATC Photography / Adam Bruzzone
Captain Cook – PS Murray Princess 4 days / 3 nights
Discover the hauntingly beautiful and dramatic South Australian Outback , its unique flora and fauna , the legacy of old riverside ports and indigenous culture aboard the paddle wheeler PS Murray Princess . Experience a unique historic and nature based adventure , through some of the driest parts of the driest continent , past mallee scrub and ancient red gum forests , through towering gorges and ochre coloured limestone cliffs .
Along the way visit historic ports and lush vineyards as you navigate the Murray ’ s big river bends . You can hike around a boardwalk trail or join a guided nature walk . Take a small boat safari , visit a riverside village and enjoy all the fun of a riverside BBQ . Sample some of the local produce at the cellar door , or take a camera and catch some memorable scenes of the abundant birdlife .
Take a 3 night cruise for an indulgent long weekend . Discover the beautiful lower riverlands , a guided nature walk and backwater wildlife tour , visit Murray Bridge markets , historic houses and art galleries and taste the food and wine of this famous region . The 4 night cruise follows in the wake of great Australian pioneers along the Outback river highway , discovering towering sandstone cliffs and ancient gorges along the way . Enjoy wine tasting at the cellar door and an Aussie riverside bush BBQ at one of the most spectacular sites along the river .
A 7 night cruise is a combination of the 3 and 4 night cruises and includes a free side trip to the Barossa valley .
2017 will see the launch of the new 7 night upper Murraylands river cruise . As well as our Early Booker Saver Fares – ask your Travel Consultant for more information .
Unforgettable Houseboats 8 days / 7 nights
Imagine tying up at the riverbank for a walk , gathering some firewood then settling in around the campfire to watch the stars . Unforgettable Houseboats have 10 luxury vessels to choose from , sleeping between 2 - 12 passengers , so you can take the whole family or enjoy an intimate cruise .
Day 1 : Embark The instructor will take you through the boat and teach you how to drive .
Day 2 : Bowhill – Walker Flat Travel to Bowhill , stop for lunch and continue to Walker Flat for the evening .
Day 3 : Day at leisure at Walker Flat Hop off the boat and enjoy the day experiencing South Australia at its best .
Day 4 : Walker Flat – Big Bend Leisurely make your way from Walker Flat to Big Bend .
Day 5 : Big Bend – Swan Reach Travel up to Swan Reach , stop at Swan Reach for lunch or dinner .
Day 6 : Day cruising between Walker Flat – Bowhill Cruise back downstream and find a mooring between Walker Flat and Bowhill .
Day 7 : Mannum Continue downstream to Mannum and moor overnight in the town or at a secluded spot .
Day 8 : Disembark
Departures : Fri & Mon at 4.30pm
Inclusions : Based on 3 night Discovery Cruise ( Inside Cabin ), all meals including Captain ’ s Dinner , live entertainment , excursions as per itinerary , use of mini gym and sauna , tea and coffee bar , return coach transfers from Adelaide or car-parking in Mannum
Price Guide From : $ 1095
Departures : Mon and Fri
Inclusions : Based on a 8 berth boat for 7 nights , all linen & towels , kitchen utensils , crockery & cutlery , fresh drinking water , safety jackets and river maps . Note : Houseboat driver must have full car or boat drivers license and be over 21 years
Price Guide From : $ 305 ( Unforgettable 1 – sleeps 8 )
12
The price guide shown is per adult for twin share , based on low season travel . Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date .