Support Local Business on the Upper Murray River – Echuca Area and Lower Murray River – Adelaide and surrounds

Cruise the Upper and Lower Murray River and immerse yourself in the waterfront serenity. The river offers two very different experiences, and three boat options. These iconic Murray River cruises are a great way to support local businesses who have been working hard despite difficult environmental conditions. Taking a cruise not only supports the local business and communities but it will give you the opportunity to see the varied landscapes of the Murray River, wildlife and produce, all while enjoying a holiday.

Echuca, Victoria

Echuca is a small town that borders the Murray River in northern Victoria, close neighbors with Moama on the New South Wales side of the Murray River. Echuca is best known for the Paddle Steamers that depart from its ports. The PS Emmylou is currently the only paddle steamer offering overnight accommodation in the Southern Hemisphere. Echuca is a lovely heritage town on the banks of the meandering, old gum-lined Murray River. Rich in culture, it’s home to the Historical Society Museum, Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, the National Holden Motor Museum, and many lively shops and restaurants.

The town of Echuca, though rich in history, relies heavily on the tourism that its fleet of riverboats attracts. With plenty of water activities, museums, and cultural landmarks at each end of the cruise. Additionally, the cruises visit wineries, farm stations, country towns, indigenous sites rich with heritage, and wildlife experiences. All bringing business to the local communities.

Mannum, South Australia

Just over an hour from Adelaide lies Mannum, a picturesque waterfront township that is best known for the paddle wheeler the Murray Princess which embarks and disembarks in Mannum. The Murray Princess is an ideal cruise for large groups, with accessible options it is a popular choice for many people. There are also a number of houseboats that allow visitors to capture the serene river setting. The town has a range of activities to offer, nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful bird sanctuary, picnic grounds, fishing, native walks, and Mannum Waterfalls. Dining and shopping experiences are also plentiful. Mannum is also a great base to experience close by wine regions such as Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley.

Murray Bridge, South Australia

When cruising the lower Murray River, the town of Murray Bridge is an aquatic paradise worth visiting. Heritage-listed buildings, rich Aboriginal and European history, and quaint dining and restaurant experiences accompany the bustling streets. Murray Bridge is also where you will find the Proud Mary for a boutique river cruise experience with only 18 cabins. It is a lovely group size to get to know the other guests.

Murray Bridge is also home to the largest open-range safari park in Australia. Monarto Safari Park allows visitors to choose from a range of incredible up-close experiences with many African animals. The safari experience paired with the Murray Bridges water sports and river cruises allows visitors to have the best of both worlds.

Renmark, South Australia

Nestled into the majestic banks of the Murray River, Renmark is known for its native wildlife that calls the vast wetlands home. Just three hours’ drive from Adelaide Renmark is not only surrounded by wine country but home to Twenty Third Street Distillery, a gin lovers’ paradise, he distillery produces some of the best Gin Australia has to offer. One of the most popular cruises on offer are the special itinerary destination cruises to Renmark only offered once a year or bi-annually.

Loxton, South Australia

Similar to surrounding towns along the Murray River, Loxton boasts incredible wildlife experiences, spectacular gardens, a nationally recognised golf course, local wine, bushwalks, boating along the Murray River and so much more. The Loxton Historical Village is a stop that you shouldn’t miss. It houses over 45 buildings and
sites that convey the household items, machinery, and farm equipment that were used by the early European settlers. This piece of history makes Loxton a must on your trip through the Murray River region. Again, one of the special itinerary destination cruises to Loxton offered on a yearly or bi-annually basis.

Recent floods, bushfires, and the pandemic have devastated the towns and businesses along the Murray River. Australians and international visitors are being invited to support the communities along the Murray River, with a Murray River Cruise. There are few better ways to experience everything the Australian waterways and native wildlife have to offer than by boat.