7 Night Country ‘Cruisin’ Music Cruise MR7MUS

Itinerary

SPECIAL EVENT ITINERARY: 7 Night Country Cruisin’ Music Cruise – subject to change

• 1 Friday

  Mid-afternoon, the PS Murray Princess departs historic Mannum and heads downriver. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks and cocktails (own expense) from the Sturt Bar along with an introduction to your crew who will look after you for the next 3 nights. Also meet our guest entertainers for the weekend, Dave Freeman and Paul Gill.

  Enjoy your Welcome Dinner as we cruise under floodlight to our overnight mooring at Mundurra where you may see some nocturnal wildlife on the riverbank. Tonight, you will be entertained by the talented Paul Gill and his beautiful music.

• 2 Saturday

  Departing Mundurra early, we head downriver where we moor in the Township of Murray Bridge. In 1879 the first bridge to span the Murray River was built here at Edwards Crossing which quickly became the bustling township of Murray Bridge.

  After a hearty breakfast, choose to join a guided tour of the town’s historic landmarks and local attractions or go on a wildlife tour at Monarto Safari Park (additional cost). Coach transfers are available to the main street of Murray Bridge or if you prefer, you can walk across the bridge or just take a leisurely stroll along the river front. A coach will be waiting for those passengers who have chosen to go on the Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour. Your private guide will take you on a private tour of the Zoo where you will be able see many of the Zoo’s inhabitants including Giraffe, Eland, Zebra, White Rhinoceros, Cheetah, Lions, Hyena and Wild Dogs.

  After the tour, you will return to Murray Bridge and re-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.

  Tonight we will moor at Salt Bush Flat. Tonight, we will moor at Salt Bush Flat. After dinner, Dave will perform his “OMG Country Cruisin’ Music Show” which includes hits from Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, John Denver, Charley Pride, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley and many more!

• 3 Sunday

  After a delicious breakfast, join the First Officer at the gangway for a guided nature walk at Salt Bush Flat.

  Depart Salt Bush Flat late morning and enjoy some local food and wine tasting in the Sturt Dining Room, where you will have a chance to learn more about the local region and sample some of the bounty found throughout the Murray and Riverland regions. After a leisurely lunch, continue cruising downriver with time to relax and enjoy the on-board facilities. Catch up with friends over a coffee or a drink and reminisce about last night’s entertainment whilst enjoying the magnificent scenery.

  Following lunch, we will moor at River View Lodge (near Piggy Flat/Coolcha) where the ‘Dragon-Fly’ flat-bottomed boat awaits you. Travel in small, personalised groups and explore the river, getting up close to the 20 million year old cliffs and viewing the amazing birdlife, including darters, herons and egrets who are feeding along the river’s edge.

  This afternoon, enjoy a fun game of bocce on the riverbank and you may also wish to participate in a lively music quiz. Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a delicious final night dinner and more great musical entertainment from Dave and Paul.

• 4 Monday

  We head back to Mannum and after breakfast, discover Australia’s richest and best-known wine making region – the Barossa.

  Depart Mannum by coach to the famous Barossa, the beautiful ‘valley of the vine’ and the source of about a quarter of Australia’s worldrenowned wines. You will visit Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre, Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, enjoy a 2 course lunch at Lambert Estate where you’ll have time to take in the views of this popular vineyard.

  Your final stop is Gully Gardens at Angaston, a local producer of dried fruits and confectionery before returning to the PS Murray Princess at Mannum and cruising towards our overnight mooring at Caurnamont.

  Our on-board entertainer provides music for the night owls

   

• 5 Tuesday

  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 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”.

• 6 Wednesday

  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 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”.

  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.

  An optional Nocturnal Tour (additional cost) in a comfortable purpose-built cart is available after dinner where you may see kangaroos, wombats, foxes, bats, and owls by powerful spotlights. Special stops along the way are included to view the spectacular night sky which is part of the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve.

• 7 Thursday

  After an optional early morning Bush Tucker Breakfast (additional cost) or a 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 Aboriginal Reserve, 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.

• 8 Friday

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

PLEASE NOTE: This is a sample special event itinerary and is subject to change without notice.

Your Boat

This amazing river cruise boat is a true inland paddle-wheeler, purpose-built for the Murray River. This classic riverboat was designed as a modern romantic representative of a riverboat similar to hundreds of such vessels that used to trade up and down the Murray River. These days most Murray River vessels have imitation paddles, however, this boat boast authentic, massive stern-propelled paddlewheels used to cruise the river.

Catering to 120 passengers, the boat offers passengers a unique river boat small ship cruise on the Murray River. Join only the finest Captains and crew who are passionate about what they do and are delighted to share with you their knowledge and stories. Onboard the paddle wheeler the dining saloon is spacious with a character and charm of yesteryear. The paddle wheeler will offer you a relaxed and informal experience coupled with the warmth and friendliness so unique to a Murray River cruise.

Dining
Dining aboard includes delicious seasonal menus, including local, fresh produce. Salmon, scotch fillet, chicken, quiche, lamb shanks, and pork cutlets – you’ll have the option to enjoy them all in the Dining Room on the Sturt Deck. Each meal is accompanied by coffee or tea. There is also a Captain’s Dinner and buffet dining, with a special campfire barbecue on the banks of the Murray River during the 4 and 7-night cruises. All special dietary and allergy information must be advised. Where possible, staff will endeavour to meet your requests. As a guide, we regularly cater to Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegetarian, Diabetic and non-Seafood passengers.

Facilities
Gym, two bars, two lounges, single-sitting dining saloon; speed boat; gift shop, library, and video/DVD; lift (Randell, Cadell & Sturt Decks only); free Wi-Fi, guest laundry, and 24-hour tea and coffee facilities. Please be advised that the sun deck, all cabins, and public rooms are non-smoking.

Smoking is permitted in designated areas of the outside decks only. As a courtesy to your fellow passengers, please refrain from smoking pipes and cigars. Cigarettes are not sold on board. Smoking areas are restricted to the Sturt Deck in front of the bar area and the Randell Deck forward deck.

Accommodation
The boat has 60 cabins and staterooms each with a private bathroom ensuite, electric blankets, soap, shampoo, hairdryers, air-conditioning, towels, and daily servicing. Each cabin is approximately 12 sq metres. Four of the outside cabins and their ensuite bathrooms are wheelchair accessible. Two cabins located on Randell Deck are opposite the lift for easy access to the dining and lounge decks. View the deck plan.

Staterooms (6) spacious Staterooms are located on the Randell and Cadell decks. Each stateroom offers a queen bed (four have an extra single bed) and opens onto the outside deck walkway. Minibars, fridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities are also included.

Outside Cabins (45) are located on Randell and Cadell Decks and the majority of these cabins have twin bedding with limited double-bedded cabins available. Each outside cabin opens onto the outside deck walkway with picture windows to view the passing scenery.

Inside Cabins (9) are located on the lower Chaffey Deck and open onto a wide inside passageway. Inside cabins offer twin bedding with limited double-bedded cabins available and have portholes facing the outside. Inside Cabins are accessed via stairs, there is no lift access to this deck.

Getting around the Murray Princess
The PS Murray Princess has five passenger decks. All decks are accessible by stairwells of approximately 10 to 14 steps. A lift services three decks – Randell, Cadell, and Sturt Decks.

Public Rooms
The following public rooms are situated on decks with lift access:

• Dining Room and Bar: Located on Sturt Deck
• Paddlewheel Lounge: Situated at the stern of the vessel over two levels. The lower lounge is situated on Randell Deck and includes gift shop and café and the upper lounge is situated on Cadell Deck The following public rooms are situated on decks without lift access:
• Laundry and Gym: Located on Chaffey Deck and are only accessible by stairwells
• Sun deck: Located on the upper deck and is only accessible by a steep shallow set of stairs

Accessible Cabins
The Murray Princess has four cabins specially designed for wheelchairs. Two cabins feature twin beds and two feature a double bed and a single bed. Please note the images above show one of the accessible cabins.
Special Features:

• Wheelchair access doors and bathrooms
• Continuous level bathrooms
• Telephone contact with 24hr emergency numbers
• Handrails
• Hand-held shower
• 2 mirrors in the bathroom – one at normal height, one at wheelchair height
• All cabins have shower chairs and other equipment is available on request
• Height of beds 60 cm from floor to top of the mattress to enable passengers to slide off the chair onto the bed with no difficulty.

Additional Information

Cruise Inclusions
All meals (table d’hote and a la carte menus),  An exciting selection of onshore tours, Guided nature walks & eco excursions, Onboard presentations, Use of the gym, and Live entertainment. Not Included: Drinks, Optional tours & services, Coach Transfers, or Carparking.

Accommodation
The boat has 60 cabins and staterooms each with private bathroom ensuite, electric blankets, soap, shampoo, hairdryers, air-conditioning, towels, and daily servicing. Each cabin is approximately 12 sq meters. Four of the outside cabins and their ensuite bathrooms are wheelchair accessible. Two cabins located on Randell Deck are opposite the lift for easy access to the dining and lounge decks. View the deck plan.

Staterooms (6) spacious Staterooms are located on the Randell and Cadell decks. Each stateroom offers a queen bed (four have an extra single bed) and opens onto the outside deck walkway. Minibars, fridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities are also included.

Outside Cabins (45) are located on Randell and Cadell Decks and the majority of these cabins have twin bedding with limited double-bedded cabins available. Each outside cabin opens onto the outside deck walkway with picture windows to view the passing scenery.

Inside Cabins (9) are located on the lower Chaffey Deck and open onto a wide inside passageway. Inside cabins offer twin bedding with limited double-bedded cabins available and have portholes facing the outside. Inside Cabins are accessed via stairs, there is no lift access to this deck.

Cruise Review

Even better than expected. My best friend and I chose the 3 night river cruise as a way to spend time together while living in separate states. We expected it to be a quiet relaxing few days with lots of “oldies”. In fact we very active 70 year olds were by no means the youngest on board and , with all the activities on offer, we were kept very busy and met such a lot of interesting, fun people over the few days. The crew were friendly and professional, food was good if not adventurous, the scenery absolutely stunning and so varied, all viewed from our gorgeous home vessel the Murray Princess. Yes, the cabins are very basic and tiny but served the purpose. You do need to be tidy! We ladies had such a good time we are planning to take our husbands back for the 4 night trip. It is such an Aussie adventure. Ruth

We did the 4 day Murray Princess cruise . The cruise is very relaxing with delicious food and very friendly staff. A great experience. The river is so beautiful. I hadn’t expected such gorgeous scenery. The boat was great, just big enough with several lounges. There wasn’t any over crowding in any part of the boat. The excursions were good too. The cabins although small were well set out and we didn’t have any problems with space. Beds were comfy. Only thing I can recommend is that the coffee shop be opened at 7am for us coffee lovers who love a good cappuccino first thing in the mornings. There was a coffee/tea station available 24 hours a day with biscuits and a big fruit basket which was appreciated. All in all a fabulous experience and I recommend everyone take a trip down the Murray River. Colleen

Starting from Mannum for a Murray River Cruise on the Murray Princess. We had a great 4 night cruise on the Murray Princess last week. We especially liked the time we spent at the Sunnydale property checking out the sheep shearing display and going for a spotlighting tour around the property that night. The Murray Princess crew also put on a great BBQ and show as well. The crew were great in all areas of making sure of our comfort, entertain and food requirements. Judith C

FAQs

• Murray Princess departure, arrival and transfer information

  Coach Transfer Departures
  Coach transfer must be pre-booked. Coach Transfers depart from the below Adelaide CBD locations:

  • Adelaide Central Bus Station, 85 Franklin Street Adelaide at 1:20pm
  • Hilton Adelaide, 233 Victoria Square Adelaide at 1:30pm
  • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, 55 Frome Street Adelaide at 1:35pm
  • Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 27 Frome Street Adelaide at 1:35pm
  • Stamford Plaza Adelaide, 150 North Terrace Adelaide at 1:45pm
  • The Terrace Hotel Adelaide, 208 South Terrace Adelaide at 2:00pm

  Coach Transfer Returns
  Coach transfer must be pre-booked. Coach Transfers back to the below Adelaide locations, depart Mannum at 9.30 am and arrive in Adelaide at approx. 11:00 am– 11:30amor 5:30 pm after optional Barossa Wine and Heritage tour:

  • Adelaide Central Bus Station, 85 Franklin Street Adelaide
  • Hilton Adelaide, 233 Victoria Square Adelaide
  • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, 55 Frome Street Adelaide
  • Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 27 Frome Street Adelaide
  • Stamford Plaza Adelaide, 150 North Terrace Adelaide
  • The Terrace Hotel Adelaide, 208 South Terrace Adelaide
  • Adelaide Airport (12:00pm / 6:00pm)

  You may choose to be transferred to the Adelaide Airport, your arrival time will be approximately 12:00 pm or 6:00 pm. Please allow at least 3 hours after arrival for your flights to allow for possible delays getting to the airport.

  PLEASE NOTE: Departure and return times may vary on a few of our Special Event Cruises. Please check your cruise itinerary for this information.

  Cruise Car Parking
  Park your vehicle in the car parking in front of the Murray Princess; after you have checked in and your luggage has been stowed on the vessel, our crew will direct you to the parking facilities. Please note every care will be taken but parking is at the passenger’s own risk. Car parking is subject to availability and pre-booking is required.

  Those who are self-driving can board from 2.30 pm

  Car parking facilities are unable to accommodate caravans or motorhomes. Please contact the Mannum Caravan Park on (08) 8569 1402 to make a booking.

  Self-drive directions from Adelaide CBD to Mannum.
  Travel on the South Eastern Freeway (National Highway M1) and take the Monarto Turnoff. Follow the signs to Mannum. When you arrive at Mannum, turn off Randell Street into Trewartha Street to Mary Ann Reserve. Park your vehicle in the car park in Mary Ann Reserve and proceed to check in on board the Murray Princess.

• I have limited mobility, is there anything I should know for the Murray Princess cruises?

  For the cruises on the P.S. Murray Princess you will have access to a lift if you are booking an outside or stateroom cabin. However if you are booking an inside cabin you will have to manage 10 stairs. The boat has accessibility access and walkways for walkers, wheel chairs and motorised wheelchairs. If you require further information please contact us to discuss.

• Is there a doctor onboard?

  The ships crews do not include a doctor, however the ship’s Officers are trained in First Aid. There is no pharmacy onboard. Please ensure you bring adequate prescription medicines you may require.

• Do I need to prove that I am fit enough to undertake a Murray Princess cruise?

  The passenger warrants that they are physically fit and capable of undertaking the cruise. For full details please ask our helpful sales team for more details.

• Can we swim in the river?
  Yes. If you wish to swim in the river please seek advise from one of the deck staff as to the easiest and safest method of doing so.
• Are my valuables safe?

  For your convenience valuables may be lodged with the Captain for safe keeping in the Captain’s safe. The company accepts no liability.

• What will the weather be like?

  Rain or shine, waters on the Murray always make for smooth sailing. As a guide, expected seasonal temperatures range from 16-35 degrees Celsius during summer and 6-17 degrees Celsius during winter.

• Can I smoke on the boat?

  Smoking is only permitted in the areas designated for smoking, such as the rear deck. As a courtesy to your fellow passengers please refrain from smoking pipes and cigars. Cigarettes are not sold onboard.

• Is there electricity onboard the boats?

  The ships electricity is AC 240 volts 50 cycle (standard electrical power used in Australia). Hairdryers are provided on the cruises, how ever you are welcome to bring your own shavers and hairdryers if you wish.

• What should I wear?

  During the day, sportswear and casual clothes are suggested. We kindly ask that you do not wear bathing suits, singlets or brief attire in public rooms and lounges, especially in the Dining Room. Footwear is requested in both the Dining Room and Lounges. During the evening smart casual wear is recommended – an open neck shirt and slacks for gentlemen and a dress, skirt and blouse or pants outfit for the ladies. At the Captains Dinner on the final night of the cruise, a jacket and tie would not be out of place for gentlemen and a cocktail dress or pants outfit for the ladies. Be sure to bring a sun visor or hat, sunglasses and good sun blocks. Sandals, low-heeled deck shoes and tennis shoes are most suitable on deck and for shore excursions.

• How much baggage can I bring?

  Baggage is limited to what you can stow in your cabins, so you would be advised not to over pack. All bags must be clearly labelled with your name. Bags have to be handled by crew and we would appreciate a weight limit of 15 kg.

• We have a special occasion to celebrate, what can you do for us?
  You may want to order a cake, champagne or make some other celebratory arrangement for that special occasion. Please give two weeks notice before sailing.
• Can I get picked up for the Murray Princess by the bus at my hotel?

  Coach Transfer Departures
  Coach transfer must be pre-booked. Coach Transfers depart from the below Adelaide CBD locations:

  • Adelaide Central Bus Station, 85 Franklin Street Adelaide at 1:20pm
  • Hilton Adelaide, 233 Victoria Square Adelaide at 1:30pm
  • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, 55 Frome Street Adelaide at 1:35pm
  • Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 27 Frome Street Adelaide at 1:35pm
  • Stamford Plaza Adelaide, 150 North Terrace Adelaide at 1:45pm
  • The Terrace Hotel Adelaide, 208 South Terrace Adelaide at 2:00pm

  Coach Transfer Returns
  Coach transfer must be pre-booked. Coach Transfers back to the below Adelaide locations, depart Mannum at 9.30 am and
  arrive in Adelaide at approx. 11:00 am– 11:30amor 5:30 pm after optional Barossa Wine and Heritage tour:

  • Adelaide Central Bus Station, 85 Franklin Street Adelaide
  • Hilton Adelaide, 233 Victoria Square Adelaide
  • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, 55 Frome Street Adelaide
  • Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 27 Frome Street Adelaide
  • Stamford Plaza Adelaide, 150 North Terrace Adelaide
  • The Terrace Hotel Adelaide, 208 South Terrace Adelaide
  • Adelaide Airport (12:00pm / 6:00pm)

  You may choose to be transferred to the Adelaide Airport, your arrival time will be approximately 12:00 pm or 6:00 pm. Please allow at least 3 hours after arrival for your flights to allow for possible delays getting to the airport.

  PLEASE NOTE: Departure and return times may vary on a few of our Special Event Cruises. Please check your cruise itinerary for this information.

• What do we do with special requests or dietary requirements?

  Once we leave the wharf these ships cannot obtain additional supplies or medicines. Special requests or dietary requirements must be advised to your booking agent as early as possible. Upon boarding please consult with your Cruise Director. Please also ensure you bring any prescription medication you may need.

• Do I need to bring anything at check in?

  The following information is required at check-in: – Photo identification for each passenger (drivers license or passport) – Your cruise confirmation number (located on your e-ticket) – Your credit card (as security against your onboard Cabin account)

• Should I buy travel insurance?

  Travel insurance is your choice. You will need to read the individual terms and conditions provided by each travel insurance company. As a valued customer of Murray River Cruises, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. Travel insurance can assist with non-refundable costs such as deposits paid in the event of a cancellation, please check the policy for details prior to purchase. Ask our helpful team for a quote or get a free no-obligation quote online.