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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Mannum is renowned as the birthplace of Australia's paddle steamer industry, central to river trade from the late 19th century onward.
Conservation
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
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.
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.
Historic Vessels
PS Marion (1897), PW Mayflower (1884)
Two restored heritage steamers
Cruise Schedule
Multiple weekly departures
1.5-hour & monthly two-hour cruises
Location
Mannum, South Australia
Departures from Mannum Dock Discovery Centre
Visitor Experiences
Short cruises & weekend escapes
Sightseeing, onboard snacks, cabin escapes
Select a PS Marion or PW Mayflower experience and confirm schedules and bookings via the Mannum Dock Discovery Centre or official ticketing channels.
Book Early
The PS Marion cruises run only once a month and can fill up quickly; reserve your spot well in advance.
Bring Your Own Food
You’re welcome to bring snacks or a picnic on board; there are also snacks and drinks for sale if you prefer.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure at Arnold Park in Mannum to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress in Layers
River breezes can be cool even in summer, so layering clothing helps stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Layered Clothing
Adjusts to changing river temperatures and breezes for comfort throughout the cruise.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sun Hat
Provides protection against strong sun exposure on the open river deck.
summer|spring|fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your two-hour journey on the water.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife and riverbank viewing, especially for birdwatching.