Sapphire Princess South Coast Highlights & Murray River Cruise

Today you’ll embark Sapphire Princess in Melbourne for your cruise. Once one of the world’s largest cruise ships, she boasts a range of dining options, diverse entertainment and luxurious accommodation. You’re assured of an unforgettable voyage on this superb ship.

Throughout the day and night, the exclusive open-air poolside amphitheatre is the go-to destination for feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events such as live football games. As the stars come out, cosy up under a fleece blanket in the comfortable lounger, grab some complimentary popcorn and enjoy that exciting car chase or mystery thriller on the giant screen.

The ‘Seafood Capital of Australia’ more than lives up to its title with the largest commercial fishing fleet and restaurants that serve an incredible array of delicious seafood. The city’s maritime history means you could explore the old fishing vessels or its rugged beach coastline. If you’re feeling daring, you could go shark cage diving or, for a tamer experience, swim with the sea lions.

Australia’s third largest island is awash with attractions and offers stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters and a beautiful wilderness inhabited by native fauna. Visit the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery or Clifford’s Honey Farm where you’ll enjoy an informative talk and sample homemade honey ice cream. You could also visit Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park where you could hand-feed Kangaroos and Wallabies, interact with snakes and learn more about the country’s endangered species.

Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan capital, is a delightful city that regularly hosts international arts festivals and events. Compact in size and boasting 29 large public parks, it regularly ranks among the world’s most liveable cities and is known for its charming churches. Take a trip to one of its many superb beaches dotted around the coast, stroll the historic Adelaide Central Market, or simply relax beneath a fig tree canopy in the Botanic Gardens.

A popular destination for a city break, Adelaide teems with cultural attractions. Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum for insights into Australia’s natural and artistic heritage and discover Aboriginal, colonial, and Melanesian art at the South Australian Museum. You could also explore the city’s heart with a visit to Victoria Square, soak up the sun in historic Glenelg or enjoy a walk along Port Adelaide where you could dip in to one of the harbourside eateries.

Today you’ll embark on a tour to South Australia’s premium wine region to sample some of the Barossa Valley’s finest wines. Soak up the sights of sprawling vineyards with a stop at the multi award-winning Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre and enjoy a walking tour. Next, you’ll travel to the Mengler Hill Lookout for beguiling views of the valley before continuing on to the Saltram Wine Estate for further tastings. Following lunch, you’ll journey through the landscapes of Adelaide Hills to Hahndorf, Adelaide’s oldest German settlement.

From bird sanctuaries to conservation parks, as well as countless coastal walking trails with a friendly café to stop off at, there’s always somewhere to while away a few scenic hours in Adelaide. You could even hire a bicycle to explore the city on one of the many designated paths, or enjoy a picnic with a view of the ocean. Favourite walking spots include Tennyson Dunes and the River Torrens Linear Park. Or you could take an Adelaide Riverbank Tour on a Segway.

This morning you’ll transfer to Mannum Wharf port where you’ll embark the PS Murray Princess for a unique cruise experience along the Murray River. Embrace the character and charm of yesteryear as you savour your elegant surroundings. This remarkable paddlewheeler was built specifically for the Murray River and offers a true taste of a bygone era to anyone who cruises with her. You’ll head downriver as you tuck into a delicious Welcome Dinner. As you cruise under floodlight, you may spot nocturnal wildlife grazing at the riverbank before mooring at Mundurra.

The first bridge to span the mighty Murray River was built at Edwards Crossing in 1879 and this spot quickly turned into the township of Murray Bridge. Following a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the bridge and explore the town’s historic Roundhouse. The unusual hexagonal shaped historical residence captures the history of this remarkable region and adds to the magnificent river views. Back on board, you’ll enjoy a special presentation of the bounty of locally grown food and wine and continue your journey upriver where you’ll moor at Salt Bush Flat.

Begin your morning on a guided nature walk amongst the local flora and fauna. Returning to the ship, you’ll head downriver to River View Lodge near Piggy Flat where you’ll board a discovery vessel for a fascinating wildlife tour. Travelling in small groups, you’ll explore the maze-like river and spot the diverse birdlife. The afternoon offers a choice of fun activities before joining the Captain and Officers for a farewell Captain’s Dinner and Dance.

Today you’ll disembark Murray Princess in Mannum and fly home.