15 Day Murray River, Flinders Ranges & Kangaroo Island
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour features a combination of escorted and independent travel. Part of your journey will be enjoyed as a group experience, led by expert tour leaders or local guides. The remainder is self-guided—whether by rail, cruise, or overland—allowing you the freedom to travel between destinations independently and explore at your own pace.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own.
✓ Incredible sightseeing. Visit Adelaide, see the pinnacles of Wilpena Pound from the air, spend time in Clare Valley, Kangaroo island, and explore the Murray River on a 4 night paddlewheeler PS Murray Princess Cruise
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ 4 nights aboard PS Murray Princess River Cruise (Inside twin cabin included. Upgrades available)
✓ 8 days Hertz Group H car rental including unlimited kilometers & Hertz Maximum Coverage (NIL damage excess including glass & tyres and waives liability for theft or loss to vehicle)
✓ Unbelievable 20 minute scenic flight over Wilpena Pound
✓ 10 nights in mostly 4* accommodation
✓ 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Adelaide! On arrival, make your way to your hotel. The rest of your day is free to explore Adelaide at your own pace.
Check in & arrival information.
A taxi or Uber from Adelaide airport to your accommodation costs approximately $25 per car. Hotel check in is at 2pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
This morning, collect your car from the Hertz rental CBD office and begin your journey north to Port Augusta, once the main port for the Southern Australian area.The port was the point where wheat and wool were loaded on clipper ships and transported around the world. By the 1970s that had stopped and the town, exploiting its unique position, became the starting point of the Nullarbor Plain.
Approximate distance driven: 310km - 4hrs
Today’s drive continues North approximately 160km to the ancient geological region of the Flinders Ranges or Ikara as it is known to the traditional Aboriginal owners. It's a place rich in Aboriginal history and home to a vast array of wildlife.
On route, make sure to stop at Quorn - historic town in the Flinders Ranges which came into existence as an important railhead. While here, a visit to the Pichi Richi Railway is a must. Built in the 1870s, this unique railway is the last remaining operating portion of the "Old Ghan" narrow-gauge line. After being abandoned in the 1950's, the Railway was revived in 1974 by the volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society who have progressively restored a remarkable collection of heritage locomotives and carriages.
Tonight you’ll be nearing the Wilpena Pound. A massive bowl almost 100 kilometres wide that stands above the surrounding plains, looks like a crater but the rim is actually made up of the stumps of huge mountains, believed to have been as high as the Himalayas, that have been eroded over millennia. It was called a pound by the early settlers in the 1850s – they thought it looked like a traditional sheep pen.
Approximate distance driven: 160km - 2hrs
This morning you are in for a real treat! Take to the skies on a 20 minute scenic flight over Wilpena Pound. Completing a circuit of Wilpena Pound where your pilot will point out the Elder Range, Edeowie Gorge, Heysen Range, Lake Torrens, Bunyeroo Gorge, Brachina Gorge, St Mary Peak and the Pound Gap. You will clearly see how the Flinders Ranges appears to be a backbone of the landscape. This is an extraordinary sight and great for photographers.
This scenic flight is operated by the Wilpena Pound Resort and the resort staff will direct you to the meeting point.
After returning to the ground, enjoy the rest of the day to explore the Flinders Ranges at your own pace. Having a vehicle gives you the perfect opportunity to access a huge range of walks or points of interest.
This morning, pack the car and begin your journey South along Flinders Ranges Way towards the Clare Valley. The Clare Valley is home to over 40 cellar doors and wineries, boasting some of the best Riesling in Australia.
Approximate distance driven: 294km - 3.5hrs
Today is free for you to explore the Clare Valley at your own leisure.
Perhaps visit the Powder Magazine - erected in 1847 it’s the oldest remaining mine building in Australia. Alternatively, you may want to see the Unicorn Brewery Cellars, which was built in 1873 and consisted of a tall malting tower, offices, cooper's workshop, steam engine and boiler to operate the pumps, and manager's residence. The cellars were excavated and completed in 1873. Due to new licensing laws, introduced at the turn of the century, the Brewery closed in 1902 and the buildings were demolished for their stone in 1911.
At lunchtime, you may want to visit Mr. Mick Cellar Door, located in the heart of Clare adjacent to the Riesling Trail at 7 Dominic Street, their cellar doors are open daily from 10.00am to 4.30pm. Visitors can enjoy a tasting paddle of 5 wines from our extensive range of different styles, including new and different varietals such as Vermentino, Pinot Grigio, Grenache and Tempranillo, or more traditional wines like Riesling, Cabernet Merlot and Shiraz. The tasting experience is $10 per person which is redeemable on purchases of 2 or more bottles.
Today drive south to Cape Jervis and board your Sealink ferry for a scenic 45-minute crossing, known as the Backstairs Passage, to Penneshaw and Kangaroo Island. Your ferry departure time will vary from 1pm and 3pm depending on the time of the year you travel. Your final departure time will be advised with your final documentation - approximately 30 days prior to departure. Please plan to arrive at Cape Jarvis at least 30’ prior to your ferry departure.
Continue driving to your accommodation for the night.
Approximate distance driven: 260km - 4hrs
Today is free for you to explore Kangaroo Island at your own leisure.
Perhaps visit Flinders Chase National Park and pay a visit to the iconic draw cards of Remarkable Rocks, Weirs Cove, Cape du Couedic lighthouse and Admirals Arch. If you are feeling energetic, you may want to tackle some of the most popular treks in the park: Cape du Couedic (2km) or Ravine Hike (7km). Please pack enough water and snacks for your visit. The park has limited toilets and there is no food or drink available for purchase throughout the park. You can advance purchase your Park Day Entry for $11 per adult, via the Parks South Australia website.
Alternatively, you may want to visit Seal Bay and take on the Boardwalk self guided tour ($16.50) or the Seal Bay Experience ($37 per adult - includes Boardwalk self guided tour). Times for the Seal Bay Experience go from 09.15am to 4pm. You can pre-book your tour, via the Seal Bay website.
Approximate distance driven if visiting both mentioned optional activities: - 280km - 3.5hrs
At the appropriate time, drive back to Penneshaw to board your ferry back to the mainland and continue driving to Adelaide. Your ferry departure time will vary from 12 pm and 4pm depending on the time of the year you travel. Your final departure time will be advised with your final documentation - approximately 30 days prior to departure. Please plan to arrive at Penneshaw at least 30’ prior to your ferry departure.
Return your rental vehicle at Hertz Downtown depot upon returning to Adelaide (after hours drop off available) and make your own way to your accommodation.
Approximate distance driven: 110km - 2hrs
At approximately 1.35pm you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Mannum to board your 4 day Murray River cruise.
Mid-afternoon the PS 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 floodlights to our overnight mooring at Mundurra, 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.
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. After dinner, join us for all the fun and excitement, and participate in our “Murray River Cup”.
After breakfast we cruise downriver to picturesque Swan Reach. The town was first settled in the 1850s, was originally the largest of five sheep and cattle stations in the area and is now home to native flower and fruit growers. The original Swan Reach homestead is now the Swan Reach Hotel where you can enjoy an ale or cappuccino overlooking the Murray River (additional cost).
Join a walking tour and visit the Swan Reach Museum (gold coin donation at entry). Cruise downriver after lunch and take in the tranquillity as the landscape slides by. 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 along the way are included to view the spectacular night sky which is part of the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve.
After an optional early morning Bush Tucker Breakfast (additional cost) or a bush walk with the Captain, the vessel cruises slowly downriver past magnificent cliffs scoured by the river over millions of years. We reach Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve, 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.
We head back to Mannum and after breakfast, we reluctantly say farewell as we arrive at Mannum Wharf and be transferred back to your hotel in Adelaide.
All good things must come to an end! At the appropriate time today make your way to the airport or continue your onward journey.
Check out & departure information.
A taxi or Uber to Adelaide airport from your accommodation costs approximately $25 per car. Hotel check out is at 10am. You are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area if departing later.
Cruise Details
To see further information on the PS Murray Princess, please click HERE
Cabin Bedding and Upgrades
Bedding on board the cruise is restricted to the following configurations. If you wish to upgrade your cabin, the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price prior to travel:
Inside Twin Cabin - Included
Inside cabins are located on the lower Chaffey Deck and open onto a wide inside passageway. Inside cabins offer twin bedding and have portholes facing the outside. Inside Cabins are accessed via stairs, there is no lift access to this deck.
Inside Double Cabin - Upgrade from $120 per person
As above, but with a double bed in your inside cabin.
Outside Twin Cabin - Upgrade from $740 per person
Outside cabins are located on Randell and Cadell Decks and these cabins have twin bedding. Each outside cabin opens onto the outside deck walkway with picture windows to view the passing scenery.
Outside Double Cabin - Upgrade from $990 per person
As above, but with a double bed in your outside cabin.
Stateroom Double or Twin - Upgrade from $1,400 per person
Our spacious Staterooms are located on the Randell and Cadell decks. Each stateroom offers a queen bed (some have an extra single bed) and open onto the outside deck walkway. Mini-bars, fridges and tea and coffee making facilities are also included.
Please request your cabin upgrade in the 'special requests' field. Availability and price will then be confirmed and added to your invoice upon acceptance.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling off period.
Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7 day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply. Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Booking On Request
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,321 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
The cruise has a maximun capacity of 120 guests whilst your Kangaroo Island tour will travel with up to 48 guests.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Group Size
This package is made up of multiple components which will be provided by different operators throughout your trip. As such, group size will differ between operators and can be as intimate as 2 people or as lively as up to 60 people, depending on the activity and advertised inclusions. There may be unique cases where your selected travel date exceeds the expected group size for special events or types of activities, particularly during popular times of travel. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is a Partially Escorted style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability. We appreciate your understanding.
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