Time slows down aboard the Murray Princess, and that’s exactly the point. For travellers who cherish the charm of old-world exploration and the quiet beauty of Australia’s inland riverways, it offers the perfect weekend retreat. Often paired with our carefully curated touring packages – from Adelaide city stays and Kangaroo Island escapes to the legendary Ghan rail journey – it offers a seamless blend of heritage, storytelling, and natural wonder. Let’s take a look at why you should consider this iconic paddle-wheeler for your next adventure.
A Paddle-wheeler Steeped in History
The PS Murray Princess isn’t just a way to travel - it’s a journey back in time. Built in 1986 but modelled on the 19th-century paddle steamers that once dominated the river trade, she offers the romance and elegance of yesteryear with all the comforts of modern cruising. The vessel’s authentic stern wheel, timber panelling, and vintage-style interiors are a loving tribute to the golden age of inland river travel.
Once, paddle-wheelers like the Murray Princess were the lifeblood of South Australia, delivering wool, wheat, and cargo to and from remote river towns. Today, she carries travellers in comfort through the same storied channels, passing remnants of the past - old river ports, historical homesteads, and Indigenous landmarks - each with a tale to tell.
As you cruise along, the commentary onboard brings this rich heritage to life, and the landscapes that once welcomed explorers and settlers roll gently by. It’s a rare, immersive way to connect with Australia’s pioneering heartland.
3-Night Discovery Cruise: A Long Weekend of Nostalgia and Nature
Departing from the historic port town of Mannum, the 3-night Discovery Cruise travels the peaceful lower river between Walker Flat and Murray Bridge. Enjoy daily excursions including a guided nature walk, regional food and wine tastings, and a visit to the historic township of Murray Bridge and its iconic Roundhouse. Aboard the ‘Dragon-Fly’ flat-bottomed boat, explore secluded wetlands teeming with birdlife. With a la carte dining, panoramic views, and warm hospitality aboard the Murray Princess, this cruise strikes the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
Cruise Inclusions & Highlights:
• Step back in time at Murray Bridge, including a visit to the historic Roundhouse
• Join an optional Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour (extra cost)
• Enjoy a guided nature walk at Salt Bush Flat, rich in native flora
• Get close to the birdlife on the ‘Dragon-Fly’ flat-bottomed boat
• Delight in a regional food and wine tasting of local varietals and produce
• Optional post-cruise coach tour – Highlights of the Murray (additional cost)
Each stop on the cruise is an opportunity to engage with the rich and layered stories of the river - where Indigenous culture, colonial trade, native wildlife, and the evolution of rural Australia all come together. Whether you're exploring historic townships, visiting cultural sites, or spotting wildlife along the riverbanks, every experience offers a deeper connection to the heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable region.
Onboard Life: Relaxation with a Touch of Elegance
While history flows through the Murray Princess, so too does a sense of gracious hospitality that defines the journey. You’ll be invited to slow down, unwind, and embrace a gentler pace of travel - relax in the elegant lounges, take in river views from the sun deck, and share meals and stories in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes river cruising truly special.
Onboard Amenities:
• Two spacious observation lounges with uninterrupted river views
• Sun Deck for photography, reading, or simply soaking in the scenery
• A la carte dining, with daily cooked breakfasts, lunches, and three-course dinners
• Live entertainment and social evenings that foster camaraderie
• A like-minded community of mature travellers
Extend the Journey: Tailored Touring in South Australia
Holidays of Australia specialises in transforming the iconic Murray Princess Discovery Cruise into a complete South Australian holiday experience - perfect for travellers who want more than just a cruise. Our expertly curated itineraries combine the river’s tranquillity with the best of the region’s cultural, culinary, and natural highlights, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey from start to finish.
Adelaide City Stay: Begin or end your cruise with a stay in South Australia’s elegant capital. Discover a vibrant blend of heritage architecture, world-class dining, lush parklands, and buzzing laneways filled with galleries and boutiques.
Kangaroo Island: Continue your adventure with a guided escape to Kangaroo Island - renowned for its wildlife, rugged coastlines, and gourmet delights. Visit Flinders Chase National Park, stroll alongside sea lions at Seal Bay, and enjoy tastings of local honey, wines, and fresh produce.
The Ghan: For the ultimate outback rail journey, pair your cruise with a trip aboard The Ghan – the legendary transcontinental train that takes you through the heart of Australia from Adelaide to Darwin, complete with all-inclusive service, off-train excursions, and unforgettable landscapes.
Every package is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, ease of travel, and meaningful experiences, with the option of fully escorted touring for added peace of mind.
Want to Explore Even More?
If the romance of the Murray River captures your heart, there’s no need to stop at a weekend escape. For those seeking a longer, more immersive experience, the Murray Princess offers extended cruise options that take you further into the landscapes, legends, and lifestyles of Australia’s river country.
4-Night Outback Heritage Cruise
Step aboard for a four-night adventure from Mannum to Blanchetown, where the dramatic cliffs of Big Bend tower over the riverbanks, and life slows to the rhythm of the paddle-wheel. Visit Burk Salter Boutique Winery for a delightful cellar door tasting, take in a woolshed show, and meet the native residents of the Sunnydale Wildlife Shelter. With guided walks, riverfront barbecues, and insights into the river’s pioneering past, this cruise is a wonderful blend of nature and nostalgia.
7-Night Murraylands & Wildlife Cruise
For those who truly want to embrace the spirit of river travel, the seven-night journey from Murray Bridge to Blanchetown and return offers a deeper dive into the heart of the Murraylands. Enjoy all the highlights of the shorter cruises, plus additional experiences such as Aboriginal archaeological site tours at Ngaut Ngaut, extended tender boat excursions, and a complimentary Highlights of the Murray coach tour. It’s a week-long celebration of river heritage, wildlife, and regional flavour.
These longer itineraries are ideal for guests who want to absorb more of the river’s beauty and heritage at a relaxed pace, while enjoying the all-inclusive comfort and charm the Murray Princess is renowned for. Whether you're planning a short escape or a grand South Australian adventure, we're here to make it seamless, personalised, and unforgettable.
Book Your River Journey Today
Let the Murray Princess take you on a journey not just through South Australia but through time itself. With tranquil waters, rich cultural history, and discovery waiting around every bend, a cruise aboard this iconic paddle-wheeler is a soulful way to explore the region.
Whether it’s the centrepiece of your South Australian holiday or the beginning of a broader touring experience with Holidays of Australia, this is more than a cruise - it’s a return to the romance of river travel.
Click here to view our Murray Princess packages, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
