Experience ultimate relaxation onboard a historic South Australian paddlewheeler

Imagine sitting on the deck of a historic paddlewheeler as you cruise down the river; the wind gently blowing your hair, the sun streaming, the sound of birds chirping in the distance, with all your worries and concerns far from your mind.

Perhaps you’re reading a book at the same time, immersing yourself in the story as you turn each page; or maybe you’re laughing along with friends reminiscing on your days as a teen. You could also be waiting patiently and preparing yourself for a day of activities, tying up your walking boots and slapping on the sunscreen ready for adventures on land.

Each day there’s many lucky Aussies doing just this onboard the famous and historic Murray Princess. When coronavirus first hit our shores, cruises down the mighty Murray River were put on hold, but as borders open and case numbers drop the beautiful South Australian paddlewheeler is setting out on many more adventures and providing Australians with a relaxing holiday.

Sometimes it’s just a few days of cruising from the main port of Mannum in South Australia, but on other occasions it’s a week-long trip, with travellers experiencing the true beauty of the region on and off the paddlewheeler.

It’s a vessel full of character and charm, with a massive stern wheel carrying it across the water. This can be seen from inside the gorgeous lounge, which is accessed by a classic brass and mahogany-style spiral staircase.

From there it’s a short stroll to the 60 cabins and staterooms where guests stay during their travels, each with a private ensuite and all the toiletry necessities required for the relaxing holiday. The rooms are simple but beautiful – the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring, chatting and eating scrumptious meals prepared by the onboard chefs.

Due to the small passenger limit, the atmosphere onboard the Murray Princess is intimate, and you’re sure to be treated with the utmost respect by staff who make you feel like a part of the family. But, there are certainly days when adventure is on the cards, with opportunities to venture to riverside townships, stretch your legs on guided nature walks, tickle your tastebuds on bush tucker and maybe even visit a vineyard and enjoy a sip of wine.

If you’re hanging out for a holiday and the Murray Princess sounds like your cup of tea, Travel at 60 currently has some incredible deals on offer, with big savings to be made! For a quick and easy getaway treat yourself to a three-night cruise, departing on a Friday and ending on a Monday morning after breakfast. It gives you a taste of the Murray River region in South Australia, from the vast wildlife to the beautiful scenery.

Or, for a longer trip there’s the seven-night journey from Mannum to Morgan, which is filled with fun and educational experiences such as a visit to the well-known Banrock Station winery and Wetland Centre, a sheep shearing demonstration and a guided walk through one of Australia’s most significant aboriginal sites at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park.

Meanwhile, if you’re still thinking about what to do for Christmas, forget the hassle of organising everything yourself and join the special festive season cruise onboard the Murray Princess. The trip departs on December 23 and includes a full itinerary of activities both onboard the ship and on land. On Christmas day there will be a special celebration, including a delicious traditional lunch and a beach party at night.

For more information on these wonderful cruises, click here.