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Australian Cruise & Rail Tour Incl. Kangaroo Island
New & improved tour for 2025!

20 day escorted tour departs 08 June 2025

New & improved tour for 2025, incorporating an iconic 4-night cruise on the mighty Murray River, and one of Australia’s great rail journeys. On board our cruise, we travel north on the great Murray River from the historic river port of Mannum to Blanchetown. Then travelling by rail through rugged mountain ranges, scattered outback towns, the magnificent red sand hills of the Simpson Desert before entering the beautiful and mysterious tropical north. Other thrilling highlights of the tour will include Kangaroo Island 1 night – including Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders National Park, Adelaide 3 nights – City tour and full day Barossa Valley tour, Kakadu National Park 1 night, including Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Nourlangie Rock Art Site and many others.

Your tour highlights

Highlights include
• Elegant twin (upper and lower berths)
or single sleeper compartments
converting to seating for daytime
use. Twin compartments have
private ensuite facilities while single
compartments have their own wash
basins with shower and toilet facilities
located at the end of the carriage.
• All compartments fully serviced
by dedicated cabin stewards
• Luxurious “Outback Explorer”
lounge and bar car for
relaxation and socializing, nonalcoholic drinks included.

Tour itinerary

Jun
8
Auckland – Adelaide (D)

An early start this morning, as we check in for our 8.20am flight to Adelaide. On arrival we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city. Adelaide is an elegant, clean and gracious city that has preserved its heritage and links with the past. Our tour will show us many of the lovely parks and gardens that surround the city, the grand sandstone homes and cottages and the many churches that are spread throughout the city. We then transfer to our hotel where we overnight. There is time to relax before we meet up for dinner this evening.

Jun
9
Adelaide – Mannum (Join Murray River Cruise) – Caurnamont (B,D)

This morning we check out of our hotel and make our way to Mannum, where we board the Murray Princess mid-afternoon, for our 4-night Outback Heritage Cruise. We depart historic Mannum, the birthplace of the Murray River trade and communication, and head downriver while enjoying a Welcome Dinner. As we cruise under floodlight to our overnight mooring at Caurnamont, we may see nocturnal wildlife on the riverbank. Watch for kangaroos, hairy-nosed wombats, tortoises, egrets and many other species. Our on-board entertainers provide music for the night owls.

Jun
10
Caurnamont – Blanchetown (B,L,D)

For those who are keen photographers, we suggest rising early to capture the special light and the morning movement of wildlife. Prolific birdlife includes pelicans, wrens and swans. We enjoy a leisurely morning and lunch cruising upriver to Blanchetown through one of 13 locks which maintain the flow and levels of the river’s 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 in the fun and excitement, and participate in the onboard “Murray River Cup”.

Jun
11
Blanchetown – Sunnydale (B,L,D)

After breakfast we cruise downriver to picturesque Swan Reach. The town, 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 the walking tour and visit the Swan Reach Museum (gold coin donation at entry). Cruise downriver after lunch and take in the tranquility 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.

Jun
12
Sunnydale – Younghusband (B,L,D)

After an optional early morning Bush Tucker Breakfast, or 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, we join our fellow guests for a delicious final night dinner and enjoy the evening entertainment.

Jun
13
Younghusband – Mannum – Glenelg – Adelaid (B)

We head back to Mannum and after breakfast, we reluctantly say farewell as we arrive at the Mannum Wharf. We make our way back to Adelaide, stopping in Glenelg for lunch, before we continue through to Adelaide to check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Jun
14
Adelaide (B,D)

Today, we enjoy a morning tour of the city’s main attractions which will allow us to get our bearings.  Our Coach Captain will share his local knowledge on things to see and do including the charm and character of the buildings and famous landmarks. A perfect introduction for first-time visitors, we visit the Botanic Park, Adelaide Oval, St Peters Cathedral and the National Wine Centre of Australia. The afternoon is at leisure before we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening.

Jun
15
Barossa Valley Day Tour (B,L)

Another great day today as we set off for the Adelaide Hills, through a patchwork of orchards and vineyards to the town of Hahndorf, one of the most popular towns in the area originally settled by German immigrants in 1839. The town retains much of its Germanic heritage and is home to some of the regions finest cellar doors. Then, we travel across to the world-famous Barossa Valley, the heartland of the Australian wine industry which retains much of its diverse European cultural heritage. Time for lunch and some wine tasting before returning to Adelaide later this afternoon.

Jun
16
Adelaide – Kangaroo Island (B,L,D)

Today we enjoy a scenic journey to Cape Jervis taking in the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula with its vineyards, coastal views and rolling hills. On arrival, board the SeaLink Kangaroo Island ferry for the 45-minute crossing to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. We visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Bistro, followed by a visit to the Flinders Chase National Park, where we will see the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. We overnight on Kangaroo Island, with dinner included.

Jun
17
Kangaroo Island – Adelaide (B)

We return to Adelaide today, arriving mid-afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure

Jun
18
Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs – Katherine on The Ghan (B,D)

Late in the morning, we transfer to the railway station where we join “The Ghan.” We depart Adelaide just after midday for the 2979km journey through to Darwin, truly one of the great train journeys of the world. Sit back and marvel at the great Australian landscapes from the rusty reds of the outback to the lush tropical splendour of Darwin. Why not enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the Outback Explorer Lounge while taking in the scenery as we wind our way north?

Jun
19
Alice Springs – Katherine (B,L,D)

Our train arrives into the gateway to the heart of Australia, Alice Springs, early afternoon for a 4-hour stopover. An included sightseeing tour offers the opportunity to explore the iconic sites of the Alice including The Flying Doctor Base and the Telegraph Station which played a pivotal role in bridging the communications between remote towns and settlements. Other tours are available at additional cost for the more adventurous including one helicopter flight.  We re-join the train early this evening to depart for Katherine.

Jun
20
Katherine – Darwin (B,L)

Our train arrives into Katherine in the morning for a stopover of 4 hours. This sub-tropical town is the gateway to Nitmiluk National Park and the spectacular Katherine Gorge with its 25-million-year-old canyons. We have the morning in Katherine with plenty of time for an included sightseeing – maybe a cruise on the Katherine River to Nitmiluk Gorge or the Katherine Outback Experience to learn about the inner workings of life on a remote cattle station. Other tours are available at additional cost for the more adventurous including scenic flights through the gorge. This afternoon, we travel the final 300km of our epic journey as we continue on to the northern sub-tropical capital of Darwin arriving late afternoon. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our city hotel for a 2-night stay

Jun
21
Darwin (B,D)

Our morning sightseeing tour is a perfect introduction to Darwin. We see the Chinese Temple and the lush Botanic Gardens and tour the historic sights of the city including the East Point Military precinct, an area rich in World War II memorabilia. We see the Stokes Hill Wharf area and the Mooring Basin. There is also time available to explore the Museum and Art Gallery. The afternoon is at leisure. This evening, we enjoy a dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour which will hopefully present us with fantastic views of a fiery sunset

Jun
22
Kakadu National Park Tour (B,L)

Today, we are up early to get started on a day you will long remember. Covering an area of almost 20,000 square kilometres, World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park offers one of the most diverse landscapes you will ever experience with mangrove fringed coastal areas, expansive flood plains, lowland hills, open woodland and forest habitats. Be amazed at the population of wildlife in the water, on the land and in the air. Highlights of the day include: The Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, home to thousands of saltwater crocodiles and up to 60 species of colourful birdlife; after lunch at Cooinda, Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre where artefacts and videos illustrate stories of the traditional owners ranging from personal stories to “bush tucker”; Nourlangie which provided shelter to indigenous people for many thousands of years and where the rock art illustrates their deep spiritual culture. There is even an opportunity for a spectacular scenic flight (additional cost) over the Arnhem Land Escarpment. We overnight in Kakadu.

Jun
23
Kakadu – Darwin (B)

We depart Kakadu this morning and travel back to Darwin. On arrival, the rest of the day is left free to relax and enjoy the wonderful winter tropical climate of the city. Maybe explore the waterfront and take part in the fish feeding ritual at Doctors Gully, visit the Defence of Darwin Experience, or just relax and watch the world go by at an outdoor café.

Jun
24
Darwin – Brisbane (B)

Late this morning, we are transferred to the airport in time to join our early afternoon flight to Brisbane. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a three-night stay.

Jun
25
Day Tour to Australia Zoo (B)

Today we enjoy a full day tour which takes us north of Brisbane to Australia Zoo, home to the television’s “Crocodile Hunter”, the late Steve Irwin. At the zoo, your day is filled with a range of activities and shows for you to experience, On the way back to Brisbane we visit Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, with time to stroll on the beach or visit the shops on the Wharf.

Jun
26
Brisbane (B,D)

Our final day in Australia – a free day for optional activities in Brisbane. Maybe shopping, a sightseeing tour, a river cruise or just relaxing. This evening, we enjoy a farewell dinner together.

Jun
27
Brisbane – Auckland (B)

Back to the airport today in time to join flights back to Auckland.

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Tour pricing:

from From $16,650

per person twin/double share*

Share Twin or Double Room
NZD $16,650.00
Supplement for Single Room
NZD $4,000.00
Total Cost for Single Room
NZD $20,650.00

To secure your place now:

Contact Us for details

Tour Inclusions:

• Economy Class Air Travel from Auckland
• First Class hotel accommodation
• Air-conditioned coach transportation
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
(B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Prepaid airport/government taxes, security and fuel
surcharges (as at 01/09/24)
• Sightseeing & entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary
• English speaking local hosts/guides in each country
• Tips/gratuities to guides, drivers & staff
• Baggage handling of one (1) piece per person
• Fully escorted by a Maher Tours Leader

Not included:

Any meals and sightseeing tours not specifically mentioned in the itinerary • Travel insurance – advice and assistance offered • Items of a personal nature such as drinks, room service, laundry, telephone charges etc. NB: Tour members may extend their stay in Australia and return at a later date. We are happy to assist with any additional bookings

Conditions:

Initial Deposit - Due at time of booking • NZD $6,000.00 per person. Final Payment - Due 01 March 2025. *Images courtesy of Maher Tours
Had an amazing time thanks! Everything was perfect and hotels and transfers etc all worked great! Thanks for all your help! Will definitely recommend you to anyone who asks and any more trips we plan will come to you.  
Tahiti, Simon
We greatly enjoyed the Heritage trip to the Sub-Antarctic Islands and Sounds. Only rain was on the last day just after we completed our zodiac cruise on Dusky Sound.  
Sub Antarctic Islands & Fiordland, Paul and Ann
We have thoroughly enjoyed our trip with Intrepid.  There were only eight of us with our Spanish guide. He was amazing, showing us things that weren't on the itinerary.
Red Centre NT, Harm & Glenis
We had a wonderful time in Niue, and our stay at the Matavai was very comfortable. The staff were all very helpful and friendly and the food was good, We had beautiful warm weather with cloud cover that stopped us burning. The hire car was essential and it allowed us to see the whole island in detail. We had 10 dives with Niue Blue, they were wonderful guides, the water around the island is world class. 10 days was just right for us, we also got to see some whales, dolphins, and flying fish. We explored all of the pools, caves and caverns, and managed the Washaway Cafe twice. It was a totally wonderful holiday,  we all want to return.
Niue, David & Yan
We really enjoyed our trip to WA. The tour went well. The sights were great. I love WA. We had booked to swim with the whale sharks on the Ningaloo Reef. That was indeed a highlight. The show was really put on by the Humpbacks who were in large numbers and very active. A Humpback whale and her baby swam through our whale shark  group after we first entered the water to get used to our snorkle and flippers. The whale 'tapped' on the arm with her flipper! And the swimming along the colourful world heritage reef was very special. We loved the reef and the whale sharks and all the other fish swimming amongst the reefs. We especially enjoyed the canyon walks and swimming in deep pools. All in all a great trip that we would recommend to others.
Western Australia, Helen & Kevin
We had a lovely family time. Worked out well overall at Plantation & Musket Cove. Plantation had several great playgrounds suitable for the infant's age (20 months) & more choices for food to purchase which was good. Could have done with a few more loungers around the pool at Musket .. but overall very good. The garden bures at Musket were very well spaced & private & lovely setting
Fiji, Fiona
The Cruise,  Staff and Food could not be faulted all excellent. The island’s Landscapes beautiful. The island guides we had were great very informative and friendly. Overall a great trip with special friends. Thanks for your help
Tahiti, Jeff & Glen
Just a quick note to say thank you for another seamless trip with my flights to and within Australia last week. Many of the others had luggage tagging issues due to the way their tickets had been set up by their agents while I quietly breezed through with no problems.Thanks again for being so amazing at what you do.
Georgina, Australia
I was on the Marlborough Sounds trip 1 - 7 May, and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I appreciated the upgrade to a more comfortable, and quieter cabin. The team is really excellent, they do their best to see that their travellers are being well cared for and get the best possible out of the trip. They also did a brilliant job with the weather! We had a good balance of shore explorations, zodiac cruises, and time to relax. The food was excellent. We were very fortunate in the variety of birds and native bush, as well as fur seals and that marvellous dolphin pod. The interesting talks in the evening were an added bonus
New Zealand, Sandra
We have returned from our Darwin and Ghan journey - all really fantastic and couldn't fault the organisation.  We were pleasantly surprised to have credits on the JetStar flight for food and drink, and of course the $150 at the Mindil Beach was very useful.  This hotel was truly wonderful.  The flights were well coordinated and all on time.  The temperatures in Darwin were hot but not oppressive, much cooler now.
Northern Territory Australia, Trish & Mike