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Step aboard the PS Marion, a restored 1897 steam paddle steamer, for a unique two-hour cruise on South Australia's Murray River every first Saturday of the month. Discover rich river history and stunning natural scenery in a relaxed, heritage-filled setting.
Step aboard the PS Marion, a restored 1897 steam paddle steamer, for a unique two-hour cruise on South Australia's Murray River every first Saturday of the month. Discover rich river history and stunning natural scenery in a relaxed, heritage-filled setting.
Book with Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion
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Operated by Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion · Mannum, South Australia
Located in Mannum, South Australia, the Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion offers a rare window into Australia's riverine past with its signature PS Marion Two Hour Cruises. This heritage paddle steamer, built in 1897 and meticulously restored, is one of the few operational steam-driven paddlers left in the world, and it invites adventurers to step aboard every first Saturday of the month (excluding June) for a tranquil journey along the Murray River.
Mannum itself is the birthplace of Australia's paddle steamer trade, set on the expansive Murray River, which carves its way through red gum forests, limestone cliffs, and wildlife-rich wetlands. The river environment features winding channels and billabongs, supporting birdlife such as the majestic pelican and vibrant kingfisher, making each cruise an immersive encounter with nature and history.
Boarding the PS Marion at Arnold Park is like stepping back in time. The steam engine rumbles beneath the decks, powering the side-wheel paddles that push the boat upstream and downstream through quiet river stretches. These two-hour cruises offer space to bring your own picnic or purchase snacks on board while soaking in scenic views of the river’s changing moods—from sun-washed reflections to shady groves.
The vessel itself acts as a floating museum, narrating river history through architecture and anecdotes from the crew, connecting visitors to over a century of commerce, transport, and community on the Murray. The PS Marion stands out in South Australia’s outdoor landscape as a unique fusion of cultural heritage and gentle river adventure, packaged perfectly for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a slow-paced, refreshing break on the water.
With a limited schedule, these cruises are sought-after opportunities to witness a living piece of Australian history while enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of one of the continent’s most important waterways.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and snacks. There are also snacks and drinks available for purchase.
The PS Marion departs at 10am and 2pm every first Saturday of the month, except for the first Saturday in June.
Due to the historic nature of the vessel, accessibility is limited. Please contact the museum directly for specific needs.
Each cruise lasts approximately two hours on the Murray River.
Yes, the PS Marion is equipped with restroom facilities for passenger convenience.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance as cruises often sell out. Walk-up availability is limited.
Mannum is renowned as the birthplace of Australia's paddle steamer industry, central to river trade from the late 19th century onward.
The PS Marion operates with sustainability in mind, preserving heritage while promoting awareness of the Murray River’s ecosystem.
Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion preserves and presents South Australia's riverboat heritage from its base in Mannum. The site combines a river history museum at the Mannum Dock Discovery Centre with authentic heritage vessel experiences on the PS Marion and the PW Mayflower. The museum interprets the Murray River's role in regional transport and trade, displaying artifacts and information about paddle steamers, river trade and local river communities. PS Marion, a beautifully restored 1897 paddle steamer, operates scheduled cruises including two-hour heritage trips and longer weekend escapes. The PS Marion two-hour cruises run on the first Saturday of each month and allow passengers to enjoy the tranquil Murray River, bringing their own food or choosing on-board snacks. The PS Marion Weekend Escape offers cabin accommodation, hearty meals and starlit evenings on deck for a multi-night river experience. PW Mayflower, built in 1884 and restored after careful conservation, is South Australia's oldest paddle wheeler and serves scenic 1.5-hour cruises from the Mannum Dock Discovery Centre on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Together the vessels offer a mix of short sightseeing cruises and extended river journeys that showcase river landscapes, wildlife and regional history. The Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion presents factual interpretation, preserved historic vessels and public cruises that connect visitors directly with Murray River heritage and living maritime traditions. On-site exhibits and scheduled cruises provide opportunities for education, photography and accessible access to river history for visitors of all ages including families.
Book with Mannum Dock Museum of River History and PS Marion