Travel Guide Mannum

Mannum is located on the right bank of the River Murray, 84 kilometers east of Adelaide. This small town of 2,500 inhabitants is where the first paddle-steamer on the river was launched in 1852. Mannum's shipbuilding industry continued into the 20th century. The importance of the town and its port declined in the second half of the 19th century, when the railroad reached Morgan in 1878 and Murray Bridge in 1886. A visit to the Mannum Dock Museum of River History, also a visitor information center, is a must on any tour of the town. The Murray Princess is a sternwheeler used for river cruises. Another old paddle steamer, the three-decker Marion, has been restored. Mannum also has a number of pleasure boat rental companies. Many river cruises are possible from Mannum, particularly in houseboats, which are very popular here. Several companies offer houseboat rentals at various points along the river, and there are well-documented information sites on the Internet. In Mannum, a free 24-hour ferry service allows pedestrians and vehicles to cross the river to the other side. The town of Mannum marks the start of the Murray River Lakes area along the Murray River. In summer in particular, the town is a popular destination for visitors from Australia and abroad.