Murray Princess Christmas in July

2027

11 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE TOUR

THURSDAY 15TH JULY TO SUNDAY 25TH JULY


The PS Murray Princess is a true inland paddlewheeler, purpose built for the Murray River with lashings of the character and charm of yesteryear. She is the largest inland paddlewheeler in the southern hemisphere, propelled by its massive stern wheel. Our Christmas in July tour on board this beautiful old lady of the river is unhurried and informal. Kick back and relax as you marvel at the ancient towering cliffs bathed in the evening sun and the unique flora and fauna will bring out the photographer in you. Grab your Christmas hat and sweater and join in the fun!



TOUR HIGHLIGHTS


Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, Mannum, Murray Bridge, Salt Bush Flat, River View Lodge Piggy Flat, Traditional Christmas in July Lunch, Blanchetown, Burk Salter Boutique Winery, Swan Reach, Sunnydale Woolshed Show, Native Wildlife Shelter—Aussie BBQ,

Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, Kingston S.E. and Mount Gambier.

CRUISE
Murray Princess Cruise


TOUR COSTS

Twin Share Room First Tour: $8,345 per person
Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 2 - 10 Tours: $8,245 per person
Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 11 - 20 Tours: $8,195 per person
Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 21+ Tours: $8,145 per person
Single Room Supplement: $2,360 per person


Please note a deposit of $500 per person is required upon booking.
 

As a thank you for travelling with O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours, you will automatically receive a saving on the total tour price for your second and subsequent tours.

 

O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours will match single travellers who wish to twin share with another single traveller of the same gender.

However, if this is not possible, you will need to pay the Single Room Supplement.


If you are willing to twin share but are a smoker, have a CPAP machine or snore, you will need to pay a single supplement for a sole use room.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

​O'Shanessy's Quality Tours can provide travel insurance quotes through Nib Insurance. Travel insurance is not compulsory, however the Australian Government (see www.smarttraveller.gov.au) recommends all travellers no matter where you are going, obtain comprehensive travel insurance from a reputable provider at the time the balance of the tour is to be paid. It may enable you to claim back the cost of your tour if you are unable to travel or must cancel at late notice.

​Always read the PDS provided, to ensure the cover meets your needs.

MAP


MULTIPLE NIGHT STAYS
7 nights on the Murray Princess

2 nights in Mount Gambier.


ACTIVITY LEVELS
Our Leisurely Tours are perfect for those who enjoy a slower pace; our leisurely tours are domestic and mostly “stay put,” with minimal physical activity required.


Please refer to the activity levels below.



ACTIVITY LEVELS

ITINERARY

  • DAY 1: Thursday 15th July, 2027

    MELBOURNE TO HORSHAM


    Welcome to our Christmas in July on the Murray Princess tour. With chauffeured pickup from home, we are transferred to meet our O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours coach and crew. Today is a travel day so sit back and enjoy the facilities aboard our 5 Star Touring Coach as we depart Melbourne and travel the Western Highway via Beaufort to Ararat. This afternoon, we visit the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre. The Centre tells the story of Chinese miners travelling by sea to Australia and the hardships and prejudices they had to endure as they made their way to Victoria’s rich goldfields. We continue on to Horsham for our first overnight stay.


    OVERNIGHT: Best Westlander Motor Inn, HORSHAM


  • DAY 2: Friday 16th July, 2027

    HORSHAM TO MANNUM AND THE MURRAY PRINCESS


    This morning we travel through Nhill and into South Australia and Mannum, departure port of the Murray Princess. We board the 67 metre (200 ft) luxury paddlewheeler Murray Princess for seven nights of sheer bliss and relaxation! Mid-afternoon the Murray Princess departs historic Mannum, the birthplace of the Murray River trade and communication, and heads downriver while you enjoy a Welcome Dinner. As we cruise under floodlight to our overnight mooring at Murray Bridge, you may see nocturnal wildlife on the riverbank. Watch for kangaroos, hairy-nosed wombats, tortoises, egrets and many other species. Our on-board entertainer provides music for the night owls.


    Lunch at own expense and arrangement


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 3: Saturday 17th July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - SALT BUSH FLAT


    In 1879 the first bridge to span the Murray River was built at Edwards Crossing, which quickly became the bustling township of Murray Bridge. After a hearty breakfast, choose to join a guided tour of the town’s historic landmarks and local attractions or go on a wildlife tour at Monarto Safari Park (additional cost). Those who choose to experience Monarto Safari Park will arrive back on board the Murray Princess in time for lunch then join us in the Sturt Dining Room for a special presentation on the bounty of food and wine produced in the Riverland. For lunch today, we enjoy an Aussie Style Christmas in July lunch, Christmas table decorations and themed music – plus Ho Ho Ho, a special Christmas guest! What a lovely way to spend an afternoon on the river! This afternoon, we continue our journey upriver and tonight we moor at Salt Bush Flat.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 4: Sunday 18th July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - PIGGY FLAT/COOLCHA


    This morning, join a guided nature walk where our guide will share the secrets of the local flora and fauna. It’s a great way to get in a little exercise before the Murray Princess departs and cruises downriver. Near Fromms Landing, we turn and head downriver to River View Lodge (near Piggy Flat/Coolcha) where your discovery vessel awaits for a wildlife tour. Travelling in small, personalised groups, we explore the maze of the river and the birdlife is amazing. Watch for darters, herons and egrets feeding along the river’s muddy edges. The afternoon offers a choice of bocce or fishing challenges before a delicious dinner in the Sturt Dining Room.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 5: Monday 19th July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - DAY TOUR


    We leave River View Lodge and head back to Mannum. After breakfast, step off the Murray Princess for a coach tour showcasing the iconic sights along the river. Tour the township and visit the Mannum Dock Museum, before joining the ferry to cross the river and drive through Younghusband to Bowhill, where you will learn about the township while admiring the stunning riverfront homes. Head to the Swan Reach Hotel, situated atop golden cliffs with picturesque views, and enjoy a delicious lunch and the warm country hospitality. Learn about the local farming district on your way to the Big Bend Cliffs, renowned as the tallest river cliffs in Australia. At the lookout, marvel at the longest continuous bend along the entire Murray River - a breathtaking sight. Return to Mannum and there’s free time to grab some afternoon tea or an icecream before you reboard the Murray Princess and cruise towards Caurnamont for our overnight mooring. Our onboard entertainer provides music for us.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 6: Tuesday 20th July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - BLANCHETOWN


    Daybreak and it’s time for the keen photographers to be out to capture the special 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 13 locks which maintain the flow and levels of water. This afternoon we moor opposite to the township of Blanchetown for our overnight anchorage. As the last rays of the sun fade, we visit Burk Salter Boutique Winery and enjoy wine tasting at the cellar door which is fitted out with beautiful red gum bars. The Christmas in July celebrations continue tonight as we enjoy a festive evening meal, with all the trimmings. After dinner, join us for all the fun and excitement, and participate in our “Murray River Cup”.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 7: Wednesday 21st July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - SWAN REACH, SUNNYDALE


    After breakfast cruise downriver to picturesque Swan Reach. The town was first settled in the 1850s and was originally the largest of five sheep and cattle stations in the area and is now home to native flower and fruit growers. When we arrive at Sunnydale, it’s all ashore for the Woolshed Show as we recreate typical Australian woolshed history. Later we visit the Native Wildlife Shelter where some of South Australia’s most interesting native animals are cared for. And then of course, there is the great Aussie Barbecue – cooked and served in a bush setting on the banks of the mighty Murray River. An optional Nocturnal tour (additional cost) in a comfortable purpose built cart is available after dinner where you may see kangaroos, wombats, foxes, bats and owls by powerful spotlights. Special stops are made along the way are included to view the spectacular night sky which is part of the Murray International Dark Sky Reserve.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 8: Thursday 22nd July, 2027

    MURRAY PRINCESS - YOUNGHUSBAND


    After a bush walk with the Captain, we slowly cruise downriver past magnificent cliffs scoured by the river over millions of years. We reach Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, one of Australia’s most significant archaeological sites, for a step back in time – tens of thousands of years – for a guided boardwalk tour to view ancient rock carvings and to learn about aboriginal history in the area. We return to the vessel to cruise downriver to Younghusband. Along the way, adventure seekers can also take a scenic tender boat ride. Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a delicious final night dinner and enjoy the evening entertainment.


    OVERNIGHT: Murray Princess


  • DAY 9: Friday 23rd July, 2027

    THE COORONG - MOUNT GAMBIER


    We leave Younghusband and head back to Mannum where after breakfast, we farewell our hosts and board the coach. Our travels today take us along the Coorong and into South Eastern South Australia, visiting Kingston S.E. for our lunch break. This afternoon, we continue to Mount Gambier where we settle in for the next two nights.


    OVERNIGHT: The Barn Accommodation and Steakhouse, MT GAMBIER


  • DAY 10: Saturday 24th July, 2027

    EXPLORING MOUNT GAMBIER


    This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Mount Gambier, uncovering the highlights and stories of this unique city built on ancient volcanic landscapes and limestone formations. With our guide we will also visit the remarkable Umpherston Sinkhole, a hidden garden formed within a collapsed limestone cave. Cascading greenery, towering walls, and filtered light create a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Our day now takes us to Port MacDonnell. This historic coastal town sits at the edge of the limestone coast, where rugged beauty meets a rich maritime past. Once a bustling fishing port, today it offers sweeping ocean views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. During our visit, uncover the stories of long ago during a guided sightseeing tour before a visit to the District Maritime Museum. We will also enjoy a seaside lunch before heading back to Mount Gambier, along the way visiting Caroline Hills Winery. Uncover the tales behind the winery and the efforts to revegetate the land. While here, we will also enjoy a tour through the peaceful surrounding gardens and a tasting. After thanking our hosts, we return to the hotel for our final night on tour.


    OVERNIGHT: The Barn Accommodation and Steakhouse, MT GAMBIER


  • DAY 11: Sunday 25th July, 2027

    HOMEWARD BOUND


    This morning we farewell South Australia and travel back into Victoria. As we cross the “great volcanic plain” we drive alongside miles of fascinating dry-stone walls which are a feature of the countryside and known as the stony rises. The walls were built in the 1860’s by highly skilled “wallers” from Ireland and Scotland. We arrive back in Melbourne to complete a wonderful time away. As always our chauffeurs will be on hand to take us straight to our door – all part of the O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours superior service.


TOUR INCLUSIONS


Complimentary Chauffeur Driven Transfers
Victorian passengers from Greater Melbourne, Bendigo, Torquay, Ballarat, Geelong, the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas, Phillip Island and selected areas of Gippsland will be picked up and returned home in a private chauffeured vehicle by one of our professional drivers. For passengers not within this pick up zone, or our interstate passengers, a quote can be provided for home pickup in extended areas.

Luxury Touring Coaches

Our full size, luxury coaches have only 32-36 passenger seats allowing you even more personal space and extra leg room. Our coaches are fitted with comfortable reclining seats with aisle arm rests, foot rests, seat belts, panoramic windows with blinds, refrigerator for passenger use, restroom, climate control air conditioning and Road Cam monitors which display the road ahead in real time. Each coach has a second door for easier entry and exit and touchless hand sanitizer dispensers at each entry to help keep everyone safe. Our coaches have full air suspension delivering a smooth and

quiet ride which also allows us to lower the coach closer to the ground, making boarding and disembarking even easier.


Friendly Tour Directors

Enjoy peace of mind with O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours, where our dedicated coach crew and experienced tour directors are on board to ensure your journey is as comfortable and memorable as possible. From start to finish, they’re there to assist, guide and take care of every detail. Relax and enjoy

the experience without a worry.


Quality Accommodation & Fully Inclusive Tours

Enjoy the best available ensuite motel accommodation each night, ensuring a restful journey. Cabins onboard the Murray Princess are outside cabins with twin beds. Each cabin opens onto the outside deck with picture windows to view the passing scenery. All attractions and tours listed in the itinerary are included, as are fully cooked breakfasts, along with delicious two-course restaurant dinners daily and most morning teas and lunches.

Please note: one lunch is at your own expense as outlined in the itinerary.


Please enquire with us about limited double cabins or staterooms available.


PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICY


Receipt of payment of funds will be taken as acceptance of O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours conditions of travel for this tour.

Prices include GST and all taxes.


Deposit is fully refundable until 121 days prior to departure date.

Balance due on invoice.


Cancellation within 120 days of tour departure date: No refund

Cancellation on or after tour departure date: No refund


If a tour is cancelled for any reason by O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours before the departure date, all passengers will be offered the option of transferring to another tour of their choice, hold the funds in trust for a future tour or a full refund. There is no time limit as to when this must be used. The Australian Government (see www.smarttraveller.gov.au) recommends all travellers no matter where you are going, obtain comprehensive travel insurance from a reputable provider. It may enable you to claim back the cost of your tour if you are unable to travel or have to cancel at late notice. Always read the PDS provided, to ensure the cover meets all of your needs. We are able to provide travel insurance through Nib Insurance.


If you would like a quote for travel insurance, please call our office on 1800 354 352.