With so many different and unique tourism experiences around the world now, we can sometimes get swept up in the big, spectacular sights – and forget to take in the little moments. It’s those special memories that stay with you for years, and they can be formed from an unexpected encounter, exceptional customer service, surprise friendships, late-night treats and all the moments in between.

So while the grandeur and beauty of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest inland paddlewheeler, the Murray Princess, might take your breath away, or the magic of the Murray River at last light is like nothing you’ve seen before, it can also quite often be those intricate details and subtleties that our repeat guests are always left talking about for years afterwards.

So here, we’re going to do our best, to describe some of those little things and unexpected moments (but you really need to go on a trip to get the best insight)…

Imagine lounging on the deck with a glass of Bremerton Verdelho in hand, as the sun dips behind the horizon, painting the sandstone cliffs with a rich golden hue. It’s not just the scenery; it’s the serenity of watching the world float by with each ripple of the paddlewheel.

On board, you’ll get to know new friends with warm conversations shared over a 3-course meal on the Sturt Deck, exchanging stories that span continents and lifetimes.

Plus, it’s easy for people to come from all corners of the globe as return coach transfers run every weekday from Adelaide’s International Airport to the Mary Ann Reserve dock in Mannum – so you never know who you’ll meet on board.

Floating under the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve, the night comes alive with music and laughter. The Princess dance floor is a crowd favourite, inviting you to sway along with tunes from eras gone by. It’s not just about the dance steps; but the joy of embracing these moments with newfound friends.

If you’re a music lover, then we highly recommend the Hot August Night Cruise (16 and 23 August), where Dave Freeman will soundtrack your memories to the likes of Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, The Eagles and many more.

Every day ushers in cocktail hour, a time to clink glasses and savor the flavors of carefully crafted concoctions from the Murray Princess’ expert bar staff. A cocktail on board is more than a drink; it’s a ritual of unwinding and bonding over shared indulgences.

Indulge in a 7-night cruise to sip your way through the regionally inspired cocktail menu, including a Murray Illusion, Procrastinating Pelican, and River Sunset. We’ll raise our glass to that!

We also love our down time on the Princess, from solving puzzles together to bingo tournaments with the crew – it’s these little triumphs that will delight your new group of friends by laughter, some healthy competition and camaraderie.

As the Murray Princess charts its course through the Mid Murray’s natural wonders, it’s not just about observing; it’s about immersing yourself in nature. This might mean something as simple as birdwatching the 98 species that call the Murray home, or listening to the noises of frogs with your late-night cuppa. Regardless, a Princess cruise gives you so many ways to relax into the environment that surrounds you at each turn.

From unexpected wildlife experiences at Big Bend by Night, to ancient carvings at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, the onshore experiences (depending on which cruise you choose) offered by the experienced Princess crew, create memories that stay with you long after the journey ends. Make sure you pack your camera to sneak in some piccies along the way.

From the warm greetings at the gangway, to the attentive service in every corner of the paddlewheeler, it’s the good old-fashioned hospitality that makes you feel like family from the moment you step aboard.

The Murray Princess crew, from captain to cleaners, all pride themselves on ensuring you have the best possible time on board – one of the many reasons this cruise keeps winning awards and bringing visitors back time and time again.

It’s not just the grand spectacles; it’s the intricate patchwork of moments—the laughter, the connections, the surprises – that shape the Murray Princess cruise into an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.

As you consider your next adventure, think about not only the destination, but the delight hidden in the little moments that will leave a mark on your memories for years to come (and help you unwind at the same time).

Embark on a Murray Princess cruise and let the Mighty Murray unveil a world where the magic lies in the big and (especially) the small details. Their calendar of cruises includes:

• Easter Cruise (29 March)
• ANZAC Cruise (22 April)
• Christmas in July Cruise (5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 26 and 29 July)
• Hot August Night Music Cruise (16 and 23 August)

The best part? You can spoil your loved one this festive season with a gift voucher for the Princess, find out more here.