The Full Tinny Tour

3 Hours

Great choice! Our full tour departs Waikerie or Berri, and is shaped around what you most want out of the experience. Morning tours run 9am–12pm and afternoon tours 1pm–4pm.

$300Includes one guest. Extra guests are $50 each

4Maximum group size

00:0000:00

What you'll get to experience

Three hours is when the river really opens up. There’s time to get well past the township and into the quiet backwaters, where the birdlife gathers and the limestone cliffs rise straight out of the water. With Justin as your guide, there’s no fixed route. Tell him what you love, whether that’s wildlife, photography, local history or just drifting, and he’ll take you there. Stop for photos, ask all the questions you like, and never feel like you’re watching the clock. It’s the full Murray experience, with the rest of your day still free.

A tinny on still water beneath golden limestone cliffs on the Murray River
Tour tinny cruising down the Murray River towards sunlit orange cliffs
Tinny navigating along the base of towering limestone cliffs topped by the Waikerie grain silos
Evening sun setting over the Murray River reflecting off the water beside rugged ochre cliffs
Justin and Kathy smiling on the riverbank in Murray River Tinny Tours shirts

Tour highlights

  • Waikerie’s riverfront and the town’s close connection with the Murray River
  • The historic Holder settlement and its stories of early irrigation and farming
  • Maize Island and its surrounding wetlands, backwaters and birdlife
  • Toolunka Creek, a peaceful waterway lined with river red gums
  • The changing colours, textures and formations of the river cliffs
  • Broken Cliffs and other distinctive natural features along this section of the Murray
  • Wetlands and wildlife habitat supporting pelicans, swans, ducks, cormorants and birds of prey
  • Historic river sites and stories about the people and communities that developed beside the Murray

Each trip is unique.

From Waikerie or Berri, the route can take in the main river, quieter creeks and backwaters, wetlands, river cliffs, red gums, historic river features and places of local interest. Tell us whether you’re most interested in: wildlife, photography, ecology, local history or just a relaxed trip on the water and we’ll make sure you get the most from your experience.

Why three hours?

Three hours is long enough to get well past the township and into the quieter water, and short enough to leave the rest of your day free. There is still time to stop, ask questions and take photographs without watching the clock.

Stops along the way

A short riverbank stop or a chance to stretch may be included where time, weather, water conditions and safe access allow. Swimming isn’t a guaranteed part of the tour, but it may be considered by prior arrangement if conditions are suitable.

Everything included

Just turn up: the tinny, Justin as your skipper and guide, lifejackets and the safety equipment are all taken care of. We do suggest bringing:

  • Sun protection: a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. The bimini gives some shade, but you’re on open water the whole time.
  • Comfortable clothing and non-slip footwear, with a light jacket. It can feel cooler on the water than on land.
  • Drinking water, any personal medication and a small soft bag. Space aboard is limited, so keep it compact.
  • A camera or phone, ideally in a waterproof case or dry bag. Personal equipment travels at your own risk.

Departure points

Where to find us

Both towns sit right on the river, just off the Sturt Highway. Book the tour from whichever suits your trip, and your confirmation includes the exact meeting point and directions.

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Pricing

Simple, private-tour pricing

The three-hour private tour costs $300 and includes one guest. Each additional guest is $50, up to 4 guests plus your skipper, subject to safe weight limits. There are no separate child, family or group rates. Smaller groups already pay less.

Total tour price

1 guest

$300

2 guests

$350

3 guests

$400

4 guests

$450

Want a shorter trip? The two-hour sunrise and sunset tours run through the daylight saving months, from $200. Check out the tour here.

Three-hour private tour

Includes one guest. Extra guests are $50 each

$300

Everything below is included in the price:

Three hours, fully guided

Justin as your local skipper and guide

Cliffs, backwaters and birdlife along the way

Lifejackets and all other safety gear

Private to your booking group

Route tailored to your interests

Book now

Let the photos do the talking

Guests, wildlife and Riverland scenery from past tours

Good to know

Key questions for our 3 hour tour. More answers on the full FAQ page.

Ready to experience the Murray?

Choose your departure town and morning or afternoon, then pick a date and book online. Book at least 48 hours ahead if you can, especially for weekends and school holidays.