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Indulge your senses in Proud Mary’s longest cruises on Australia’s longest single river. Our 7 night specialty cruises run 4 weeks of the year, speak to our team about our next 7 night cruise.

Come cruising...

Come cruising….. Embark upon one of our longest 7 night Murray River Specialty Cruises, aboard the intimate cruising vessel, the Proud Mary. Departing 4 weeks of the year our 7 night cruise dates are set at the start of each year ready for you to enjoy some extended cruising beyond our normal 2 and 5 night departures. Enquire now to see what dates have been selected for this year! Get ready to indulge your senses as we cast off to explore the Murray River's eco-system at its finest.

The 7 Night Specialty Cruises includes all meals. Let our brilliant chefs delight your senses with modern Australian and European cuisine made from the highest quality seasonal produce.

Abundant wildlife and magnificent scenery will be seen throughout your entire stay aboard. River Gums and Willows line the banks of this famous river and provide a perfect safe haven for birds and wildlife. Take in the towering cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches as the Proud Mary idly cruises by. At night, the Proud Mary's powerful floodlights provide a rare glimpse of nocturnal wildlife, especially birds such as night herons, owls and coots.

Lagoon cruises, on shore guided walks, an Australian themed bush barbeque with live entertainment, cruising through various locks and the Captain's Dinner make up just some of the highlights of this extravagant 7 night specialty cruise (more details on cruise highlights below).

For when you choose to retire to the private contemporary ensuite accommodation provided, all cabins onboard feature stunning river views so you can stay immersed in the beauty of nature.

7 night specialty cruise highlights may include:

Lagoon cruises

A journey aboard a small boat to cruise the River’s secluded lagoons and inlets, here you will view some of the 320 species of birdlife in this region and discover the intricacies of the ancient cliff face.

Revolution Motor Museum

Revolution Motor Museum features a Performance Car Museum with a range of American Muscle Cars, Bikes and Stationery Engines on display – Not only perfect for car enthusiasts but history buffs alike with South Australia's first ever taxi on display!

Almond Farm

Discover how this state of the art almond farm uses water-recycling technology to limit its direct impact on the river system and help secure the diverse ecosystem of the river.

Australian themed bush barbeque

As dusk falls, enjoy an evening around a blazing campfire. A delicious bush barbeque is prepared using local produce, including billy tea and damper, along with evening entertainment under the stars on the golden sands of the river bank.

Night cruising

Night cruising is a feature of all Proud Mary cruises. The Proud Mary’s powerful flood lights illuminate the graceful willows and dark waters as you cruise.

Ecological walks

Here you’ll discover the importance of flood plains to the river system. You will also see some of the last remaining evidence of ancient Aboriginal civilization, a huge canoe tree bearing the scar where bark was taken to make a canoe. Learn about Moorundie Creek, named after the Aboriginal tribe that lived here. In native dialect ‘moorundie’ means sand or sandy and is the site where the history of the area began in 1840, when explorer Edward John Eyre established a village named Sturt after the famous explorer navigator.

Explore ancient archaeological sites

Visit the site of ancient aboriginal rock art where your local indigenous guide will explain their meaning and significance. Ngaut Ngaut was a major meeting place for the tribes of the area and you’ll see where they prepared and cooked food at a ceremonial site that dates back thousands of years. The view from the top of the cliffs is astonishing with vistas that stretch for miles in every direction.

Live entertainment

After your Australian themed bush barbeque, enjoy live music from Proud Mary’s entertainer around a blazing campfire. Request a song and sing along as the music plays into the night.

Captain's Dinner

A five-course menu of choice featuring mouth-watering dishes based on modern Australian cuisine. Click here to see a sample menu. Enjoy the food, wine and atmosphere with your fellow passengers as the Captain visits every table and chats. It’s a chance to dress up a little and enjoy a gorgeous formal dinner.

Cruise though locks

Cruising through a lock on the Murray River is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and engineering feats of Australia's river system. As Proud Mary enters the lock, water levels start to rise or fall depending on the direction of the journey. It's fascinating to watch the lock doors close and the water fill or empty from the chamber creating a sense of anticipation and excitement as Proud Mary prepares to move on to the next section of the river. 

Banrock Station wetlands & winery

A must visit destination in the Riverland, Banrock Station is renowned for its award winning wines, picturesque vineyards, and stunning wetlands. The wetlands cover 2,500 hectares and are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 180 bird species. Explore the wetlands and enjoy a glass of wine all whilst taking in the breathtaking views that Banrock station has to offer.

Visit various river townships

The Murray River region is home to many charming towns offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Proud Mary's 7 night cruises all visit Morgan, with the extended one way trip to or from Renmark also including Wakirie, Loxton Berri and Renmark.

Example Itineraries (3 options)


Cruise highlights Murray Bridge to Morgan return

DAY 1: FRIDAY (S)

Your seven night cruise departs from Murray Bridge just 1 hour from Adelaide, where you will be welcomed aboard by the friendly Proud Mary Crew. Enjoy a beautiful supper at approximately 8.15pm as you cruise this evening and the Proud Mary's powerful floodlights illuminate the shore. It is a perfect opportunity to view the nocturnal animals of Australia in their natural habitat. Later the Proud Mary ties up for the night at Woodlane.

DAY 2: SATURDAY (B/L/D)

Your cruise continues upstream as you dine on your delicious breakfast before a mid-morning Proud Mary arrival in picturesque Mannum, the birthplace of the river boat trade. Here you may board the waiting coach for an interesting tour of the Historic Mannum including the Mannum Lookout. Your guide will provide you with information. Lunch will be served aboard the Proud Mary as you cruise upstream to Walker Flat. This evening is "Australiana Night" featuring typically Australian dishes. This will be followed by a guided Nocturnal Discovery Tour, an insight into abundant wildlife including the Southern Hairy Nosed Wombat. It is a perfect opportunity to view the nocturnal animals of Australia in their natural habitat.

DAY 3: SUNDAY (B/L/D)

The Proud Mary will depart Walker Flat early morning and cruises further upstream as you enjoy a leisurely breakfast. A delicious special New Year's feast will be served up for lunch whilst you cruise and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Mid-afternoon, once lunch has settled, you will experience one of the many highlights of your cruise as you pass through Lock 1 at Blanchetown. The Proud Mary moors overnight amongst the towering River Red Gums where you will enjoy another incredible dinner with a relaxed evening onboard.

DAY 4: MONDAY (B/L/D)

Depart your tranquil overnight mooring cruising toward Morgan. Mid-morning will be an informative talk by the Proud Mary Captain on the Majestic Murray River. Lunch will be served on board before arriving into the township of Morgan. In its heyday, Morgan was one of the busiest South Australian Murray River ports. After lunch you will board the Proud Mary coach to visit Waikerie, here you will see the painted silos, Waikerie gliding club and many more heritage sites of this riverside town. At the conclusion of your tour re-join the Proud Mary for a delicious dinner on board. Tonight is a chance to get the competitive juices flowing with a night of trivia.

DAY 5: TUESDAY (B/L/D)

This morning the Proud Mary will cruise further upstream as you enjoy your breakfast before returning to Morgan. Here you may board the coach to visit the many heritage sights of this once booming riverside town. Most of the historic buildings including the Customs house and Courthouse are located on Railway Terrace. You will reboard the Proud Mary prior to another wonderful onboard lunch and cruise through Lock 1 before securing at Sugar Shack. Enjoy a fantastic game of Bingo following a delicious dinner prepared by our resident Chef's.

DAY 6: WEDNESDAY (B/L/D)

Join the Captain for an early morning walk learning about the history of the area and also visit an authentic canoe tree. When back onboard we will depart Sugar Shack as you enjoy your breakfast & the spectacular views. Secure at Swan Reach and board your waiting coach for a tour to visit the Swan Reach Museum and Almond Farm plantations before returning to the Proud Mary prior to lunch. Relax on board and enjoy your lunch as Proud Mary cruises to Big Bend through the spectacular cliffs. Another highlight of your cruise is the guided tour aboard a small boat through the lagoons and inlets of Big Bend which you will enjoy mid-afternoon. This evening will be a gourmet barbeque on shore followed by live entertainment.

DAY 7: THURSDAY (B/L/D)

Whilst dining on another beautiful breakfast the Proud Mary continues downstream through some of the most spectacular scenery on the entire River Murray system. Soon after breakfast we arrive at Ngaut Ngaut – a historical Aboriginal site. Here with your Aboriginal tour guide you will discover carvings and paintings on cliff faces made 3,000 to 20,000 years ago. A truly incredible experience!

After reboarding the Proud Mary we will continue downstream the mighty Murray River throughout the afternoon before arriving at Mannum. Explore the Mannum township then get yourself ready for a formal Captain's Dinner. This evening you will join the Captain and Crew for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres followed by a stunning 5-course formal dinner.

DAY 8: FRIDAY (B/L/D)

Cruise to Woodlane whilst having breakfast. There, you will be joined by your guide for a tour of this fascinating area. Find some delicious treats at Ozzie Apricots and discover a 3rd generation family-run orchard. The orchard is on the beautiful River Murray at Mypolonga about 15km's from Murray Bridge

Right next to the Apricot farm is the Revolution Motor Museum where you will be taken on a private tour to see a wide range of American Muscle Cars, Bikes and stationery engines all on display. This museum has South Australia's first registered taxi and is filled with history and beauty, a must for all to see. Yet again a superb lunch awaits on board prepared by our resident chefs with fresh local produce. This afternoon there will be more spectacular scenery before the vessel ties up once more in Murray Bridge, the Captain and crew bid farewell to guests and new-found friends before disembarkation at 4.00pm.

*All itineraries are subject to change due to river and weather conditions.

On behalf of everyone at Proud Mary, enjoy your trip. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on (08) 8406 4444.


Cruise highlights Murray Bridge to Renmark

DAY 1: FRIDAY (S)

Your seven night cruise departs from Murray Bridge just 1 hour from Adelaide, where you will be welcomed aboard by the friendly Proud Mary Crew.  Enjoy a buffet supper at approximately 8.00pm as you cruise this evening and the Proud Mary's powerful floodlights illuminate the shore.  It is a perfect opportunity to view the nocturnal animals of Australia in their natural habitat.  Later the Proud Mary ties up for the night at Woodlane.

DAY 2: SATURDAY (B.L.D)

Your cruise continues upstream as you breakfast on delicious buffet before a mid-morning Proud Mary arrival in picturesque Mannum, the birthplace of the river boat trade.  Here you may board the waiting coach for an interesting tour of the Historic Mannum.  Your guide will provide you with information.  Lunch will be served aboard the Proud Mary as you cruise upstream to Walkers Flat.  This evening is "Australiana Night" featuring typically Australian dishes.  Followed by a guided Nocturnal Discovery Tour, an insight into abundant wildlife including the Southern Hairy Nosed Wombat. It is a perfect opportunity to view the nocturnal animals of Australia in their natural habitat.

DAY 3: SUNDAY (B.L.D)

Depart early this morning and cruise upstream while enjoying a hearty breakfast.  Mid-morning pull into Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park the site of an Archaeological Dig dating back over 8000 years. Re-join the Proud Mary & cruise upstream enjoying lunch before arriving at Swan Reach.   Meet the waiting coach for a journey to Swan Reach Museum and the Cudgee Almond farm.  Back on-board cruise to your overnight mooring at Sugar Shack. 

DAY 4: MONDAY (B.L.D)

Depart your tranquil overnight mooring and cruise towards Blanchetown & Lock 1.  Pass through Lock 1.  Mid-morning will be the captain's talk on the River Murray.  Lunch will be served on board before arriving in historic town of Morgan.  In its heyday, Morgan was one of the busiest South Australian Murray River ports.  The town is located on the great Elbow, North-west Bend on the River Murray.  Board the Proud Mary coach to visit the many heritage sights of this once booming riverside town.  Most of the historic buildings, including the customs house and courthouse are located on Railway Terrace.  Tonight, you will enjoy dinner and some fun with a Trivia Night.

DAY 5: TUESDAY (B.L.D)

This morning enjoy a tour of Morgan Township and museum before reboarding the Proud Mary.  Enjoy lunch on board before a pass through lock 2 and late afternoon arrival in Waikerie, where they boast more sunshine hours yearly than the famed Queensland Gold Coast.   The name Waikerie is said to mean "many wings" after giant swift moth "weikari", the name given by the original indigenous community.  It's an appropriate name, considering the teeming birds of the lagoons and wetlands that edge the river.  Waikerie was established in 1894 when its first settlers arrived by the paddle steamers.   Here you will enjoy a spectacular BBQ and entertainment.

DAY 6: WEDNESDAY (B.L.D)

This morning take a tour of Waikerie including Havenhand Chocolate's and maybe sample some of their produce.  Take a tour to the Banrock Station Winery & Wetlands with the Proud Mary coach. Banrock Station has committed itself to working towards improving the surrounding area.  By recreating the natural drying & flooding cycle of the wetland, it is once more full of life.  After a beautiful relaxing walk around this wonderful area and a scrumptious lunch, re-board the coach for a trip to the Historic Overland Corner Hotel. The hotel was purchased by the National Trust of South Australia after being erected in 1859. Reboard the Proud Mary and cruising upstream through Lock 3 and secure at Moorook. Tonight, enjoy a traditional roast dinner followed by a game's night.

DAY 7: THURSDAY (B.L.D)

This morning cruise further upstream to the historical township of Loxton while enjoying breakfast. Enjoy a stroll around the historical town and enjoy a visit to the Loxton Historical Village to reminisce of days gone by. Please note entrance fee to the village is at passengers own cost. Return to the Proud Mary and cruise while enjoying lunch and the spectacular scenery travelling through Lock 4 before arriving at the township of Berri. Her you will join the Captain and crew for cocktails, hors d'ouvers and a formal Captains Dinner.

DAY 8: FRIDAY (B.L)

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a stroll around Berri, a vibrant Riverland town.   Return to the Proud Mary and cruise the final leg of our journey through the Murray River National Park enjoying the superb buffet lunch prepared with fresh local produce.  This afternoon there will be more spectacular scenery before the vessel passes through Lock 5 and underneath the famous Paringa Bridge.  The bridge only opens twice daily at 9.30am & 2.30pm to allow passage of larger vessels and was first used by trains in 1927 with the last train operating in 1983. The Proud Mary will arrive at your final destination of Renmark.  The Captain and Crew will bid farewell to guests and our new found friends before disembarkation mid-afternoon.  Join our waiting coach for your transfer to Adelaide.

*All itineraries are subject to change due to river and weather conditions and change at short notice

On behalf of everyone at Proud Mary, enjoy your trip. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on (08) 8406 4444.


Cruise highlights Renmark to Murray Bridge

DAY 1: FRIDAY (S)

Join the Proud Mary this evening in Renmark. Renmark features a gorgeous riverfront with plenty of area for picnics or playing sport and also includes floating wharf platforms, lookouts and historic monuments. Renmark was established in 1887 by the Chaffey brothers as an irrigation settlement. The town of Renmark takes its name from the Aboriginal word 'red mud' and was proclaimed in 1904. You will be welcomed aboard by the friendly Proud Mary crew. Enjoy a buffet supper from approximately 8:00 pm.

DAY 2: SATURDAY (BLD)

This morning we depart Renmark to pass the Paringa Bridge which opens twice daily, once at 9.30am and once at 2.30pm. Paringa Bridge was first used by trains in 1927 and the last train to use the bridge was in 1983. Pass through Lock 5 before reaching your first stop at Berri. Enjoy a stroll this morning through the main street enjoying the magnificent scenery and the historic monuments. Reboard the Proud Mary and pass through Lock 4 on the way to the historical township of Loxton. This evening is "Australiana Night" featuring typical Australian dishes. Tonight, we will have a guest speaker providing an interesting talk on a special subject.

DAY 3: SUNDAY (BLD)

Depart Loxton and cruise downstream arriving at Moorook. Continue your journey downstream to Kingston on the Murray while enjoying a sumptuous lunch on board. At Kingston on the Murray you will meet the Proud Mary Coach and take a tour of Banrock Station Winery and Wetlands. Banrock Station has committed itself to working towards improving the surrounding area. By recreating the natural drying and flooding cycle of the wetland, it is once more full of life. After a relaxing walk around this wonderful area, reboard the waiting coach to the Proud Mary to Overland Corner. Cruise from the famous Overland Corner hotel; a historic hotel onto Waikerie. Moor overnight at Waikerie while enjoying a scrumptious dinner and some fun with a game's night.

DAY 4: MONDAY (BLD)

Enjoy another hearty breakfast, board the Proud Mary coach for a guided tour of the township of Waikerie and the loca area.   Here they boast more sunshine hours yearly than the famed Queensland Gold Coast! The name Waikerie is said to mean 'many wings', after the giant swift moth 'weikari', the name given by original indigenous community. It's an appropriate name, considering the teeming birds of the lagoons and wetlands that edge the river. Waikerie was established in 1894 when its first settlers arrived by paddle steamer.  This afternoon cruise past Lock 2 and onto the historical township of Morgan where you will moor overnight. Enjoy some videos after dinner.

DAY 5: TUESDAY (BLD)

In its heyday, Morgan was one of the busiest South Australian Murray River ports. The town is located on the Great Elbow, North-West Bend on the River Murray. Board the Proud Mary coach to visit the many heritage sights of this once booming riverside town. Most of the historic buildings, including the customs house and courthouse, are located on Railway Terrace.  Re-join the Proud Mary cruising downstream through Lock 1, the first lock & weir to be constructed on the River Murray.  Construction began in 1915 and was completed in 1922. Cruise downstream towards Sugar Shack where you will secure overnight. Join our Captain for an early evening ecological walk around the station to discover the importance of the surrounding floodplains in the River System.

DAY 6: WEDNESDAY (BLD)

Depart Sugar Shack and continue downstream while enjoying a hearty breakfast, past Moorundie the site of the first white township in the area in 1841. Mid-morning arrive Swan Reach and board your waiting coach for a tour to visit the local museum and huge Almond Farm. Re-join the Proud Mary before continuing downstream and arriving at Big Bend where you will marvel at the staggering cliff formations.  A highlight of your cruise is a guided cruise lead by an ecologist aboard a small boat through the lagoons and inlets of Big Bend. This evening there is a traditional Australian barbecue on shore followed by live Aussie entertainment around a blazing campfire (subject to fire restrictions).

DAY 7: THURSDAY (BLD)

Depart early this morning and cruise downstream while enjoying a hearty breakfast. This morning pull in to Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, the site of an archaeological dig dated back over 8000 years.  Here with your Aboriginal tour guide you will discover carvings and paintings on cliff faces made 3,000 to 20,000 years ago. Once again on board the Proud Mary enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the Proud Mary chefs as you cruise before arrival at Mannum.  This evening join the Captain and crew for cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a formal Captain's Dinner.

DAY 8: FRIDAY (BL)

Cruise to Woodlane whilst having breakfast. There, you will be joined by your guide for a tour of this fascinating area. Find some delicious treats at Ozzie Apricots and discover a 3rd generation family-run orchard. The orchard is on the beautiful River Murray at Mypolonga about 15km's from Murray Bridge

Right next to the Apricot farm is the Revolution Motor Museum where you will be taken on a private tour to see a wide range of American Muscle Cars, Bikes and stationery engines all on display. This museum has South Australia's first registered taxi and is filled with history and beauty, a must for all to see. Yet again a superb lunch awaits on board prepared by our resident chefs with fresh local produce. This afternoon there will be more spectacular scenery before the vessel ties up once more in Murray Bridge, the Captain and crew bid farewell to guests and new-found friends before disembarkation at 4.00pm.

*All itineraries are subject to change due to river and weather conditions and change at short notice. On behalf of everyone at Proud Mary, enjoy your trip. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on (08) 8406 4444.

Getting there...


Murray Bridge Departure 

For the Cruise highlights Murray Bridge to Morgan return & Cruise highlights Murray Bridge to Renmark

The Proud Mary departs from Murray Bridge, just an hour from Adelaide. Return coach transfers are available to take you to the wharf at Clark Street Car Park where you will board the vessel. For self-drive passengers, secure undercover lock-up garaging facilities are available adjacent to the wharf. Embarkation is available from 7.00pm.

Garaging

Upon arrival, make your way to the vessel where our crew will meet you for check-in. After that, our Cruise Director will ask you to drive your vehicle to the garaging facility just a few minutes from the wharf where your vehicle will be securely locked away and our coach will bring you back to the boat. Cost is $175.

Coach transfers

These are available to and from Murray Bridge at the small cost of $72.50 each way ($145 return). The coach departs from the Adelaide Central bus station, 85 Franklin Street. Check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure. For directions to Adelaide Central Bus Station please contact reservations 1800 677 683 or +61 8 8406 4444.

  • Friday and Sunday coach departure times from Adelaide for cruises departing from Murray Bridge – 6:00pm
  • Friday and Sunday coach arrival times into Adelaide for cruises disembarking in Murray Bridge – 5:30pm

Self-drive passengers

Travelling from Adelaide, South Australia to Murray Bridge – Take the South Eastern freeway out of Adelaide to the Murray Bridge exit. Carry on into Murray Bridge and turn right at the third set of traffic lights. This is East Street with the Bridge Port Hotel on the corner. Turn left onto Olympic Drive, left onto Wharf Road and slightly left onto Clark Street leading to the Clark Street public car park.

Travelling from the Australian Eastern States to Murray Bridge – After travelling through Tailem Bend take the Murray Bridge exit and continue onto the township over the bridge. Take the 1st left once off the bridge. This is East Street with the Bridge Port Hotel on the corner. Turn left onto Olympic Drive, left onto Wharf Road and slightly left onto Clark Street leading to the Clark Street public car park. 


Renmark Departure 

Embarkation

Embarkation is from 7pm at Renmark Wharf, Renmark on Friday 19 January 2024. For passengers arriving earlier than 7pm we ask that you assist us by not boarding the vessel prior to this time as our crew will be preparing the facilities for your comfort

Garaging

Passengers with vehicles to be garaged should arrive at the garaging facility located at 1-5 Jaensch Road, Murray Bridge by 12pm where a Proud Mary representative will meet you and your vehicle will be securely locked away. The Sealink Travel Group coach will meet you at the garaging facility at 12.30pm for your transfer to Renmark. Please see Proud Mary coach transfers for additional information. On the completion of your cruise, you will be collected from the Clark Street Car Park, Murray Bridge by the "Proud Mary" coach at approximately 4pm for your transfer to the garaging facility at Murray Bridge where you will collect your vehicle.

Proud Mary coach transfers

Transfers for embarking or disembarking in Renmark / Murray Bridge are operated by the Sealink Travel Group / Proud Mary Coach.

The Sealink Travel Group Coach departs from the Adelaide Central Bus Station on 85 Franklin Street (Bay 2) at 11.30am sharp (please check-in at 11am with the Coach Captain), via Murray Bridge before arriving at the Renmark Wharf, Renmark at approximately 3.00pm. Please note the coach must leave on time, should you be unable to make the departure time, alternative arrangements to get to Renmark will have to be made. You will have some free time to explore Renmark prior to boarding the Proud Mary vessel at 7pm. On the completion of your cruise, you will be collected from the Clark Street Car Park, Murray Bridge by the 'Proud Mary' coach at approximately 4.15pm for your transfer to Adelaide Central Bus Station where you will arrive at approximately 5.45pm.

Directions to Jaensch street garaging facility, Murray Bridge

Travelling from Adelaide

Take the South Eastern freeway out of Adelaide to the first Murray Bridge exit. Turn right onto Swanport Rd then turn left onto Joseph St, turn right onto Sturt Reserve Rd and turn right onto Jaensch Rd

Travelling from the Eastern States

After travelling through Tailem Bend take the Murray Bridge exit and continue onto the township over the bridge. Take the first left once off the bridge. Turn right onto Swanport Rd then turn left onto Joseph St, turn right onto Sturt Reserve Rd and turn right onto Jaensch Rd.

Proud Mary's cruise was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The peaceful surroundings and the attentive crew made it a true retreat.

Jill Marchall, Nov 2023

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