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Enjoy a wonderful South Australian escape combining a 4-night cruise aboard the iconic Murray Princess with an exciting visit to Monarto Safari Park. Cruise the majestic Murray River, discover historic river towns, enjoy wine tasting, wildlife encounters and fascinating cultural experiences, including the significant Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve. The tour concludes with an unforgettable Lions 360 Experience and private safari at Monarto, making this the perfect blend of relaxation, history, nature and adventure.
Depart Victor Harbor and travel through the scenic Adelaide Hills to Hahndorf for a guided tour of The Cedars, the historic home, studio and gardens of renowned landscape artist Sir Hans Heysen. Continue to Beerenberg Farm, famous for its award-winning jams, preserves and local products, before travelling to Mannum to board the iconic PS Murray Princess. Settle into comfortable onboard accommodation and begin a relaxing cruise along the majestic Murray River. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner as the vessel cruises upstream to its overnight mooring at Caurnamont, with opportunities to spot native wildlife along the riverbanks and enjoy onboard entertainment. (L,D)
DAY 2 | TUESDAY 11 MAY 2027
Daybreak is the perfect time for keen photographers to be out to capture the sunrise 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 thirteen locks which maintain the flow and levels of water. This afternoon the Murray Princess moors opposite the township of Blanchetown. As the last rays of the sun fade, 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 the fun and excitement, and participate in the “Murray River Cup”. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 | WEDNESDAY 12 MAY 2027
After breakfast, cruise downriver to picturesque Swan Reach. First settled in the 1850s, the town was originally the largest of five sheep and cattle stations in the region and is now home to native flower and fruit growers. The original Swan Reach homestead is today the Swan Reach Hotel, offering beautiful views over the Murray River. A guided walking tour and visit to the Swan Reach Museum provide an insight into the area's history. Following lunch, continue cruising downriver while admiring the tranquil river scenery. Upon arrival at Sunnydale, experience the entertaining Woolshed Show, showcasing stories and traditions from Australia's pastoral past. Later, visit the Native Wildlife Shelter, home to a variety of South Australian native animals. This evening, enjoy a traditional Aussie Barbecue served in a picturesque bush setting on the banks of the mighty Murray River. After dinner, an optional Nocturnal Tour (additional cost) offers the chance to spot kangaroos, wombats, foxes, bats and owls under powerful spotlights, with special stops to admire the spectacular night sky within the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 | THURSDAY 13 MAY 2027
Following an optional early morning Bush Tucker Breakfast (additional cost) or a bush walk with the captain, relax as the Murray Princess cruises downriver past towering limestone cliffs shaped by the river over millions of years. Visit the culturally significant Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve, one of Australia's most important archaeological sites, and enjoy a guided boardwalk tour to view ancient rock carvings and learn about the rich Aboriginal history of the region. Returning to the vessel, continue cruising to Younghusband, with the option to enjoy a scenic tender boat ride along the way. This evening, celebrate the final night on board with a delicious farewell dinner and enjoy onboard entertainment as the cruise draws to a memorable close. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 | FRIDAY 14 MAY 2027
Stay: Bridgeport Hotel, Murray Bridge - 2 nights*
After breakfast this morning, the Murray Princess returns to Mannum. A visit to the Mannum Dock Museum & Visitors Centre provides a fascinating insight into the history of the Murray River, its paddle steamers and the town's riverboat heritage. Continue to Aussie Apricots for an informative tour showcasing traditional fruit processing methods, from hand-picking and drying apricots to creating delicious jams, chutneys and confectionery products. Later, travel to Murray Bridge and check in for a relaxing two-night stay. (B,D)
DAY 6 | SATURDAY 15 MAY 2027
Today travel to Monarto Safari Park for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Enjoy the thrilling Lions 360 Experience, Australia's only 360-degree lion encounter, offering a unique opportunity to come face-to-face with one of the country's largest lion prides from the safety of a specially designed enclosure. Following a light lunch, embark on a private Safari Experience with a local guide, exploring this vast open-range sanctuary and its remarkable collection of wildlife. Time is available to explore the Outpost Precinct, home to meerkats, African porcupines, yellow-footed rock wallabies and chimpanzees. After a memorable day, return to the hotel to relax before gathering for a farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 | SUNDAY 16 MAY 2027
After breakfast, check out of our hotel and travel by coach back to Victor Harbor. (B)
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Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
