Murray Princess FAQs

Depending on which cruise itinerary you choose there are many day tours on offer: 

Monarto Safari Park Wildlife Tour
On arrival at Murray Bridge at 9am a coach will transfer you to Monarto Safari Park for a guided tour. Explore 1,500 hectares; see exotic/native animals including cheetah, hyena, painted dogs, giraffe, zebra, rhino, antelope, bison & Australia’s largest lion pride. After the tour you will have free time at Visitor Centre/gift shop/lookout/café before returning to Murray Bridge in time to re-board the Murray Princess at 11.25am for lunch.

Barossa Wine and Heritage Tour
Depart Mannum and explore the famous Barossa wine region. Stop at Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre for a light morning tea, and at Lambert Estate for a two-course lunch featuring regional produce and a glass of wine (own cost). Tour Seppeltsfield Barossa winery, established in 1851, and taste a fortified wine and Owenh Andrews Artisan Cuisine chocolate pecan brownie. An upgrade option is available for the ‘A Taste of History’ tour. Return to Mannum with scenic views of the Murrayland Flats from Palmer Hill. Arrival back in Adelaide or Adelaide Airport approximately 5:30-6:00pm.

Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre
Banrock Station is an 1851-established grazing property with a natural drying/flooding cycle to revive the river environment. Banrock Station use sustainable techniques in the vineyard and winery. The wines now produced are enjoyed both here in Australia and sold overseas. Enjoy learning more about this fascinating project, cellar door wine tastings followed by a delicious buffet lunch and DVD presentation. There will be time to take a stroll around the gardens and orchards enjoying the relaxing scenery. 

Burk Salter Boutique Winery Cellar Door Tastings
Enjoy a visit to this family-owned winery in Blanchetown where you will enjoy an informative talk near the vines and enjoy wine tasting at the Cellar Door.
The Cellar Door first opened in 2003 and was the first Boutique Cellar Door in this region. Fitted out with beautiful red gum bars and accessories, the Cellar Door also proudly displays a photographic history of the four generations of the Salter family.

Bush Tucker Breakfast
For that special experience, Murray Princess passengers can enjoy bush tucker, combined with a traditional breakfast on the shores of the Murray River wetlands at Big Bend. Your hosts will collect you from Murray Princess when you’re on the 4 Night Outback Heritage , 7 Night Murraylands & Wildlife and 7 Night Upper Murraylands Cruises, and transport you to the bush kitchen for a two course Aussie Bush Tucker breakfast. 
Sample menu includes:
– Kangaroo sausage
– Double smoked bacon
– Tomatoes flavoured with  native pepper and samphire
– Mushroom with coolamon herbs
– Scrambled Egg with boobialla seasoning and ground saltbush
– Aussie Dukka toast with assorted jams
– Wattleseed pancakes with lemon myrtle butter
– Eucalypt flavoured billy tea or coffee
The early morning sounds of the river and its birdlife create a peaceful ambience for the start of your day, topped off with a welcome glass of bubbles.

Caudo Vineyard
Caudo Vineyard, located on Hogwash Bend, was first developed in the late 1800s as Watchow’s Landing. Many of the original buildings remain, including the homestead, converted into an extensive cellar, and the smoke house. The vineyard has deep roots, as rose gardens planted by Emma Watchow have come to lend its name. Enjoy wine tasting or explore the vineyard – this is your chance!

‘Dragon-Fly’ flat-bottomed boat
Enjoy a cruise onboard the MV ‘Dragon-Fly’ flat bottomed boat. Watch darters, herons & egrets feed as the captain will carefully guide you close to towering limestone cliffs to view the unique habitat of some of the birdlife. Only available on 3 or 7 night cruises.

Morgan Township
Enjoy a guided walk of Morgan township and the Morgan Living History Museum.
Meet your guide at the gangway for a fascinating tour of the Morgan Living History Museum. Situated in the Landseer’s building which overlooks the lawn riverbank area and gives an insight into the early life in the area encompassing farming activities and the riverboat trade.

Murray Bridge Walking Tour and Visit to the Roundhouse
Take a self-guided tour of the town’s historic Roundhouse on a 3 Night Discovery  or 7 Night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruises (link). Explore the homestead, marvel at the Murray River and bridges, and take a free shuttle bus for some shopping or Morning tea at the Bridgeport Hotel.

Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Conservation Park
Explore the Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park and gain a unique insight into the Nganguraku people with an experienced guide from the Mannum Aboriginal Community Association. View ancient rock carvings and learn about the Aboriginal dreaming and history. Gain access to the top section of the tour, featuring early habitation and tools, with stairs. Good footwear is essential and souvenirs are available for purchase at the site.

Nocturnal Tour at Sunnydale
On the 4 Night Outback Heritage, 7 Night Murraylands & Wildlife and 7 Night Upper Murraylands Cruises, enjoy a real Australian wildlife experience as your hosts take you spotlighting on the remnants of the old Sunnydale station. A unique experience in comfortable, purpose-built carts will give you the opportunity to view kangaroos, wombats, foxes, bats and owls, or just view the starlit skies as you meander through the bush. Special stops along the way are included to view the spectacular night sky which is part of the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve. Blankets and commentary are provided.

Sunnydale Woolshed Tour and Visit to Native Wildlife Shelter
Join fellow cruise guests for a unique and entertaining shearing demonstration, live sheep auction and fun sheep race in the shearing shed at Sunnydale. Your transport from the dock to the shearing shed, along well-worn bush tracks, will be in specially built carts.
Following the shearing shed show, make a special visit to the adjacent Native Wildlife Shelter and view some of South Australia’s most curious animals who are cared for by the owners before being released back into the wild.
Finish off a great day with a delicious Aussie Barbecue and entertainment in our rustic, riverside bush setting on the banks of the mighty River Murray at Sunnydale. 

Swan Reach Museum
The museum is housed in the original school building that was built in 1917. The museum’s collection consists of documents, photographs and historical items relating to its two themes, namely the history of education and social history of the area. For those not wishing to join this tour; feel free to have free time in the township of Swan Reach. 

Waikerie Township
From the aboriginal word meaning “many wings”, Waikerie is the western gateway to the Riverland and well known for the production of citrus and stone fruits. Here, you’ll find one of the longest stretches of accessible riverbank and the width of the river makes it popular for water sports and fishing. 
You will have the opportunity to explore the township at your leisure and visit some of the town’s attractions and shops all within walking distance: 
– Waikerie District Machinery and Preservation Museum run by volunteers who collect and restore stationary engines, tractors, machinery and memorabilia of yesteryear. 
– Rain Moth Gallery and see the wide range of art and craft from Riverland and South Australian Artists. The Gallery supports local and interstate artists with a wide range of artwork for that special gift and has regularly changing exhibitions.
– The Cobweb Art and Craft is a local store run by local volunteers which sells a variety of hand knits, homemade goodies & arts & craft items.
– The Cave of Wonders is a unique gift, jewellery, clothing and accessories store.
– Waikerie Bakery (good coffee), Post Office, Terry White Chemist, Big River Supermarket, Waikerie Milk Shop (ice-cream), Woolworths & Waikerie Hotel.
Please note that this tour is available on the 7 Night Upper Murraylands Cruise.

Coach Transfers are available and must be pre-booked. Cost for return coach transfers is approximately $110 per person.
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 are also available and 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)

If you 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.

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 Murray Princess and Emmylou cruises, 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 (Polaroid) and good sunblock. Sandals, low-heeled deck shoes and tennis shoes are most suitable on deck and for shore excursions. Pack warmer clothing for our onshore barbeque night and nocturnal cruising/activities etc. It is also advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes for our onshore excursions and whilst on the decks.

All meals are included on Murray River Cruises. Beverages incur an additional cost.

Depending on the cruise you select there may be additional activities. Most cruises will include music at night or sometimes movies are offered. There can be local produce tasting, karaoke, dances or trivia and bingo. WiFi is usually available along the river. A book or cards are a great addition to your onboard entertainment. 

You can book all our cruises through our website, Murray River Cruises. Alternatively, our knowledgeable and friendly customer service team will make booking a cruise an easy and seamless experience. Call 1800 994 620 now to organise your cruise.

All meals (table d’hote and a la carte menus),  An exciting selection of onshore tours (if applicable), Guided nature walks & eco excursions (if applicable), Onboard presentations, Use of the gym, and Live entertainment (if applicable) are included in your cruise, depending on the specific cruise booked.
Fares exclude drinks not stated, optional tours if provided, and additional services. Please view your specific booking for details of your cruise inclusions.

The passenger warrants that they are physically fit and capable of undertaking the cruise. Guests must notify in writing at the time of booking of any physical or mental illness, disability or other conditions for which special accommodations are required.  The vessel does not carry a medical doctor aboard. Acute medical conditions will require you to disembark to be attended to by shore-side emergency and/or medical response.

On the Murray Princess, a certificate of fitness of travel by your doctor is required for passengers over 80 years of age and/or passengers with limited mobility. For full details please refer to the Passenger Cruise Contract   and Guidelines for Limited Mobility and Fitness  to Travel information.

Be sure to bring a sun visor or hat, sunglasses and good sunblock. Pack comfortable clothing and swimwear as well as a lightweight raincoat and waterproof shoes. You will also require insect repellent. Don’t forget your personal toiletries and medications and of course your camera and any chargers you may need.

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, wheelchairs and motorised wheelchairs. 

If you require further information please contact us to discuss.

The ship’s 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. Acute medical conditions will require you to disembark to be attended to by shore-side emergency and/or medical response.

The nearest Medical Centre and/or Pharmacy is located at Mannum or Echuca. There are no public transport facilities available, transport is only available via taxicab.

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

Smoking is permitted in designated areas of the outside decks only. As a courtesy to your fellow passengers, please refrain from smoking cigars and pipes. Cigarettes are not sold on board. 

The ship’s electricity is AC 240 volts 50 cycle (standard electrical power used in Australia). Hairdryers are provided on the cruises, however you are welcome to bring your own shavers and hair dryers if you wish.

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.

You are welcome to order a cake, champagne or make some other celebratory arrangement for that special occasion. Please give four weeks notice before sailing.

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.

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

Cruises can be changed or cancelled, depending on the booking type, how long before departure cancellation or amendment is required, please read the booking terms and conditions prior to making a booking. Please note that special offers, event cruises or group bookings may have variations on booking terms and conditions that apply to the individual booking. 
 
Be aware that some confirmed bookings are not refundable if cancelled, and also may not be transferable to another date or otherwise changed. Alternatively, a change may only be permissible subject to payment of an additional fee or charge. Your entitlement to a refund for cancelled bookings is subject to the relevant Supplier’s terms and conditions. Please note that if we are entitled to a service fee for placing a booking, we will remain entitled to this fee if you cancel the booking or the Supplier fails to provide you with the Product for any reason (other than our default), including in an event of Force Majeure. We will be entitled to deduct our service fee from any refund we receive on your behalf before remitting the balance to you. Suppliers’ fees are outlined in their relevant terms and conditions.