7-Night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise on the Murray Princess

A Practical Look at the 7-Night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise on the Murray Princess

If you’re considering a leisurely voyage along Australia’s iconic Murray River, this 7-night cruise on the Murray Princess offers a blend of beautiful scenery, insightful excursions, and comfortable onboard amenities. While some reviews highlight the scenic beauty and friendly staff, others point out the high cost and variable quality. For travelers craving a mix of nature, history, and wine, it’s worth weighing what this cruise genuinely provides.

Two aspects many travelers love are the guided nature walks—which bring you close to native flora and fauna—and the delightful onshore wine tastings that showcase the local Riverland produce. The cruise also features live entertainment and onboard presentations, making the journey engaging and relaxing. However, a common concern is the price point, which some feel doesn’t always match the experience’s quality, especially when considering optional excursions and onboard dining not included in the fare.

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy gentle travel, scenic views, and learning about local Australian culture and environment. If you’re an older traveler seeking comfort, or a wine enthusiast eager to explore the Barossa Valley, this cruise could be a solid choice. But if you’re after rugged adventure or budget-friendly options, you might want to explore alternative ways to experience the Murray River.

Key Points

• Scenic River Voyage: Enjoy relaxing days cruising past sandstone cliffs and traditional Australian towns.
• Guided Experiences: Included nature walks and excursions offer personal insights into wildlife and local history.
• Wine & Food: Tasting tours in the Barossa and visits to boutique wineries highlight Australia’s renowned wine scene.
• Comfort & Convenience: All meals are included, with return transfers from Adelaide and lift facilities onboard.
• Mixed Reviews on Value: Some find the experience relaxing and engaging; others feel it’s overpriced for the quality.
• Ideal for: Leisure travelers, wildlife lovers, wine enthusiasts, older travelers, and those looking for a scenic, low-key holiday.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1 – Mannum
The cruise begins in the historic town of Mannum, known as the birthplace of the Murray River trade. Here, you settle into your cabin and get a first taste of river life. The laid-back vibe sets the tone for the week. Many reviews mention the scenic views of the river passing by as the boat departs, creating an immediate sense of calm and anticipation.

Day 2 – Murray Bridge, Monarto Safari Park & Riverland
Your morning exploration of Murray Bridge involves a visit to its historic Roundhouse, giving you a glimpse into local history—free of charge, as included in the tour. Later, there’s an optional visit to Monarto Safari Park—one of the world’s largest open-range zoos—with a wildlife tour that’s not included in the price.

After lunch, a presentation about the food and wine of the Riverland region adds context to the scenic cruising. The afternoon nature walk at Salt Bush Flat is a chance to stretch your legs and learn about native plants and animals—an activity many reviews find engaging and educational.

Day 3 – Full-day River Cruise
This day features an eight-hour guided nature walk along the river, allowing travelers to observe flora and fauna up close. The cruise itself offers stunning views and a relaxed pace, with many reviewers emphasizing how peaceful it feels to glide past towering cliffs and pastoral scenery.

Day 4 – Barossa Valley Excursion
A highlight for many is the trip to Barossa Valley—a renowned wine region. You visit Jacobs Creek Visitor Centre and Maggie Beer for tastings, exploring one of Australia’s most celebrated wine and culinary regions. The coach transfer takes about eight hours, including time at the winery and local food stops. Some travelers mention the long coach ride can be tiring but believe the experience is worth it for wine lovers.

Day 5 – River Cruising & Burk Salter Winery
Cruising upriver through 13 locks, you experience the engineering marvels of the Murray River. The leisurely pace allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. In the evening, a visit to Burk Salter Boutique Winery offers wine tasting in a setting with red gum bars, giving an authentic local flavor.

Day 6 – Swan Reach & Local Culture
The morning includes a cruise to Swan Reach, a small town with historic roots in sheep and cattle stations. The Woolshed Show recreates pastoral life, and the Native Wildlife Shelter provides a chance to see native animals—both activities are highlighted as enjoyable and educational by reviewers.

Day 7 – Nildottie & Scenic Cliffs
A relaxed start with an early bush walk or optional Bush Tucker Breakfast (at extra cost) leads to a final scenic cruise past cliffs shaped over millions of years. Many find this peaceful, scenic day the perfect conclusion to the journey.

Day 8 – Return to Mannum
After breakfast, the cruise ends in Mannum, with a coach transfer back to Adelaide. The journey concludes on a positive note, with many travelers feeling refreshed and filled with newfound knowledge about the river and its environment.

What to Expect Onboard

The Murray Princess is equipped with lift facilities, making it accessible for most travelers, and the group size is capped at around 120 people, which keeps the atmosphere intimate enough for meaningful interactions. Included meals are plentiful, with six lunches, six dinners, and seven breakfasts, though some reviews note that beverages with meals are not included.

Live entertainment and presentations add to the onboard atmosphere, with some reviews mentioning a young, energetic entertainer who keeps spirits high. The cabins are comfortable, but the focus is more on the scenery and excursions than luxury.

The Balance of Cost and Value

At over $3,000 per person, this cruise isn’t exactly a budget adventure. Many reviews acknowledge it’s expensive, but it may be justified by the convenience, guided tours, and all-inclusive meals. If you value relaxing river views, guided nature walks, and wine tastings, the price might seem reasonable. Conversely, if you’re more budget-conscious or expect a high level of luxury, you might find this experience a bit underwhelming.

Some critics mention the long coach rides during the Barossa excursion as a downside, and a few felt the overall experience did not match the price they paid. However, others rave about the staff and the scenery, making it clear that the experience’s value ultimately depends on your preferences.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This tour best suits leisure travelers, especially those who appreciate scenic cruising, gentle guided walks, and local wine. It’s ideal for older travelers or anyone seeking a relaxed, comfortable way to see the Murray River and its surroundings. If you’re interested in learning about native wildlife and Australian history, this cruise offers the chance to do so in a laid-back environment.

If your idea of a holiday involves adventure or budget travel, you might find this cruise a bit slow or expensive. But if your goal is to unwind, enjoy scenic vistas, and indulge in good food and wine, it could be a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

The 7-night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise on the Murray Princess offers a scenic and educational journey through one of Australia’s most iconic waterways. With guided nature walks, visits to wine regions, and opportunities to explore native wildlife, it provides a well-rounded experience—though it comes with a higher price tag that might not appeal to all.

The cruise’s strength lies in its relaxed pace, friendly staff, and beautiful vistas that you’ll remember long after the journey ends. It’s a good pick for those who prioritize comfort, natural beauty, and cultural insights over luxury or adventure. Just be prepared for some long coach rides and consider whether the value matches your expectations and budget.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the cruise?
Yes, return coach transfers from Adelaide are included in the tour price, making logistics simpler and more comfortable for travelers.

Are meals included during the cruise?
All six lunches, six dinners, and seven breakfasts are included, though beverages with meals are not. You might want to budget extra for drinks.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The Murray Princess has lift facilities on board, making it accessible for most travelers with mobility concerns. However, local excursions and walking activities may vary in difficulty.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect stunning views of sandstone cliffs, pastoral riverbanks, and small historic towns. Many reviews praise the picturesque vistas that pass slowly by, creating a calming atmosphere.

Are the onshore excursions worth it?
Most reviews suggest the excursions, like visits to Barossa Valley and wildlife shelters, add value by enriching your understanding of local culture and environment. Some found the coach rides lengthy, but overall, these stops are highlights.

Is the experience suitable for families?
While most comments focus on older travelers or couples, the cruise’s relaxed nature and accessible facilities make it potentially suitable for families who enjoy gentle sightseeing. Keep in mind, activities are more suited to those interested in nature and wine.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic voyage with plenty of opportunities to learn and taste your way through South Australia’s river and wine regions, this cruise could be a good fit. Just remember to weigh the cost against your personal travel style and expectations.