In the heart of South Australia is one of Australia’s most iconic rivers – the Murray. Stretching an impressive 2,500 kilometres, the Murray River is renowned for its natural beauty, red cliffs and diverse wildlife. It’s no wonder that the waterway is one of the most popular river cruises for avid travellers. From short lunchtime cruises onboard historic paddle boats to luxurious week-long adventures floating through the heart of the river, here’s some of the best Murray River cruises to add to your travel bucket list.
The best Murray River cruises 2024

01
Murray River Day Trip from Adelaide Including Lunch Cruise aboard the Proud Mary
from $191 at Viator
Looking for just a taste of the Murray River experience? This lunchtime cruise is perfect for you. For a little under $200, you’ll get a comprehensive 8-hour day trip from Adelaide to the Murray River which includes a guided coach tour, a river cruise on the Proud Mary, a fantastic lunch on board as well as a return coach to your hotel.
On the way to the boat, your coach will give you unprecedented front row seats the beauty of the sweeping Australian landscapes. You’ll then arrive in Mannum where you’ll board the cruise ship for a decadent and picturesque lunch. At the end of the lunch, you can explore the historic town of Mannum to your heart’s content. On the way back to Adelaide, you’ll also stop off at Melba’s Chocolate Factory and Woodside Cheese Wrights where you can indulge in some boutique shopping
Key features:
- Return coach included
- Guided tour
- 2 hour cruise on the Murray
- Lunch included

02
Two Night Proud Mary Cruise
from $980 at Murray River Cruises
Perhaps a river on the Murray isn’t enough to satiate your appetite. In that case, why not hop on board the Proud Mary for a two night cruise? Leaving on a Friday night, for two glorious days you’ll soak in the breathtaking scenery of the famous Murray River. You’ll also get to feast on modern Australian and European dishes prepared by skilled chefs onboard.
Alongside unrivalled views, you’ll also be treated to lagoon cruises, a guided Mannum township tour and an Australian themed bush barbeque.
Key features:
- Two night cruise
- All meals included
- Guided tours included
- Ecological walks
- Captain’s dinner

03
Seven Night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise
from $2,799 at Murray River Cruises
For the true explorers at heart, set sail on this seven night Murraylands and wildlife cruise. Starting in Mannum, you’ll board the PS Murray Princess paddle-wheeler cruise and cover a whopping 320 km of the Murray River between Blanchetown and Murray Bridge. As well as exploring the beauty of the Murray from the red cliffs to the diverse wildlife, midway through the cruise you’ll also dock to head to the Barossa Valley to indulge in Australia’s best wines.
Key features:
- Complimentary Barossa Wine & Heritage tour
- Guided tours
- Walking tour of the Swan Reach township and visit the Swan Reach Museum
- On board the PS Murray Princess paddle-wheeler
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