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Perfect for houseboat holidays or special occasions!
Fully enclosed luggage trailer is part of the service where numbers and vehicle size requires.
1 hour wait time for your food and beverage shopping is included.
Optional 30 minute lunch stop in Hahndorf or Mannum (for Murray Bridge, Mannum and Younghusband transfers) or Nuriootpa (for Blanchetown) with an additional $100 waiting fee beyond 30 minutes.
Return transfer is direct travel from houseboat pickup to Adelaide CBD or Adelaide Airport.
Please Note:
* Prices are valid for 1 April to 31 March current year.
* Price listed is for transfer from Adelaide CBD or Airport to Mannum or Murray Bridge on the Murray River.
* Additional fee for Adelaide Suburbs (including Glenelg), Younghusband (Kia Marina) Blanchetown or alternate Murray River towns available upon enquiry. Please email: hello@jugglehouse.com.au for quote and our pre-prepared time schedules if your location is not Mannum or Murray Bridge.
* Different Tour Vehicles available depending on group size, at tour operators discretion and based on availability of the fleet.
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We drove from Adelaide on a Saturday for the Dark Skies tour. It is an enjoyable day trip out to Mannum and while we were returning to Adelaide late it was a quick and enjoyable trip.
We got confirmation that the viewing would proceed that night.
The drive through the Adelaide Hills was beautiful. We stopped at the Big Rocking Horse Toy factory and had a picnic lunch. The motor museum is also along the way.
Arriving in Mannum about an hour earlier for the 16:30hr tour pickup.
To fill in the time we sat on the beautiful banks of the Murray with a drink at the Pretoria Hotel.
Kelly picked us up in her comfortable mini bus and we went for a cruise along the Murray. It was one of the highlights of the tour. The boat captain’s (apologies, I can’t recall his name) commentary was informative but not intrusive and clearly showed his love and knowledge of the river.
After the boat cruise Kelly took us via some sight seeing stops and a delicious bbq at Walker Flats to the Dark Skies site. The viewing seating options are very good- lay back chairs and bathtubs. My elderly mother was very comfortable. The weather conditions were good so we saw many constellations, Saturn, Mars and the moon in detail. Expert commentary was provided.
Kelly is a warm and attentive host. Telling stories about the history and the community and creating a warm inviting atmosphere, throughout the tour.
We highly recommend the Dark Skies tour.
Kel who drove us around was well imformed and interesting with all of her
knowledge of the area. We had a fairly large group and she seemed to know everyone by name and made everyone feel comfortable. Included in the evening was a sunset tour on the river and it was beautiful, Levi our captain was also very interesting and showed us lots of wildlife and interesting facts as we cruised along.
After our cruise we had a bbq at Walker Flat Riverfront store, which was delicous and there was plenty of it!
We then went on to the 'dark sky reserve' and were spoilt with a beautiful clear night and saw so many stars with the help of a couple of very knowledgeable guides. Whilst we were busy stargazing Kel got busy and made everyone hot milos and they were served up with 'milky way' and 'mars bar' chockies.
After a couple of hours we were taken back to Mannum feeling greatful for such a wonderful experience.
We booked this experience as a birthday surprise while travelling around Australia, and it exceeded our expectations.
From the very beginning, the communication was fantastic from Kelly. Our host was incredibly attentive, keeping us updated with messages and even taking photos throughout the evening so we could simply enjoy the experience. It was clear how much thought, time and passion had gone into planning every part of the tour. Seeing her and her husband work together made it feel even more personal and welcoming.
The dinner was delicious with plenty of options to cater for different preferences, the Murray River cruise was peaceful and full of fascinating facts thanks to our knowledgeable guide, and the stargazing itself was simply incredible. Seeing the night sky in one of the darkest places in the world was something we’ll never forget and stargazing from bathtubs definitely wasn’t something we ever expected to have on our bucket list but wow it should be on everyone’s!
Everyone we met throughout the evening was so friendly and genuinely passionate about what they do. As visitors from Ireland, it was a real treat to experience such a unique part of South Australia in such a welcoming way.
If you’re considering this tour, do it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one we’ll be talking about for years to come!
Thank you so much to Kelly ❤️
Have wanted to do this for a while and what better timing to bring my city nephews visiting from Hong Kong for a night out.
We joined the Friday's by the Fire - BBQ and Astronomy Session. A limited time event which made it the more exciting. Prior to going, we were given a link of detailed preparation with a video joining instruction which was very professionally done. The road to Ted's was excellent and easy to find.
Thinking the BBQ dinner was just a nice itinerary filler - then how wrong was I! The arrangment was gorgeous with the food prepared by a chef ! Lamb with honey sausage, Lamp chops and Pork chops were done to perfection! It was good enough to be a stand alone event! I would choose eating at Ted's over any commercial eateries. Thank you Jade for your gourmet culminary skills!
The stargazing was brilliant and breathtaking! Even on a less than clear wintery night. We could appreciate under the massive canvas of stars and milky way. And it was really and utterly pitch dark! The session was conducted by expert commentary by Joe who was thorough, patient and engaging. Seeing stars through his very expensive toy was just awesome!
Overall, the efforts that went into the organisation was tremendous and Kelly did it with so much enthusiasms and enjoyment which made us all felt so well treated. Not to mention the hot milo whilst stargazing in the dark was such a beautiful touch of your service.
Cant wait to bring my next visitors over!
Joined the Friday's by the Fire - BBQ dinner and Astronomy Session
Have wanted to do this for a while and what better timing to bring my city nephews visiting from Hong Kong for a night out.
We joined the Friday's by the Fire - BBQ and Astronomy Session. A limited time event which made it the more exciting. Prior to going, we were given a link of detailed preparation with a video joining instruction which was very professionally done. The road to Ted's was excellent and easy to find.
Thinking the BBQ dinner was just a nice itinerary filler - then how wrong was I! The arrangment was gorgeous with the food prepared by a chef ! Lamb with honey sausage, Lamp chops and Pork chops were done to perfection! It was good enough to be a stand alone event! I would choose eating at Ted's over any commercial eateries. Thank you Jade for your gourmet culminary skills!
The stargazing was brilliant and breathtaking! Even on a less than clear wintery night. We could appreciate under the massive canvas of stars and milky way. And it was really and utterly pitch dark! The session was conducted by expert commentary by Joe who was thorough, patient and engaging. Seeing stars through his very expensive toy was just awesome!
Overall, the efforts that went into the organisation was tremendous and Kelly did it with so much enthusiasms and enjoyment which made us all felt so well treated. Not to mention the hot milo whilst stargazing in the dark was such a beautiful touch of your service.
Cant wait to bring my next visitors over
The sunset cruise was a real highlight, peaceful, beautifully paced and with thoughtful commentary that helped you feel connected to the river and surrounds.
The dark sky experience was just as impressive. Once your eyes adjust, the night sky really comes alive. The guide made it easy to understand and engaging, and looking through the telescope was incredible.
A magical evening overall. Highly recommend.
The afternoon started with crossing the Murray River by ferry, which was a great way to begin. From there, we meandered along the river with really engaging and informative commentary. It didn’t feel rushed at all, just relaxed and easy, with plenty to take in along the way.
The sunset cruise was a highlight. It was peaceful and beautifully done, with thoughtful commentary that added to the experience. Being so close to the river made you feel properly connected to the landscape, which was really special.
Dinner was a classic Aussie pub meal, simple but enjoyable, and a nice way to break up the evening before heading into the dark sky experience.
The dark sky component was fascinating. Once your eyes adjust, it’s incredible how much more you can see. The guide’s commentary about the night sky was engaging and easy to follow, and getting the chance to look through the telescope was genuinely mind-blowing.
Overall, this was a magical experience. Relaxed, informative and really well put together. Definitely one I’d recommend to friends.
My friend and I loved our Astrology only session! The sites of the stars were incredibly beautiful and learning more knowledge about our universe was amazing. They offered us water, and a small snacks. We ended up staying the night in Mannum which I highly recommend other people do as well!
My friend and I look forward to coming again in Winter! Very well worth the money and drive down!
10/10 would recommend if you love the stars and want to be able to actually witness the beauty our night skies have to offer!
Unfortunately our longer tour including the river trip and meal was cancelled due to a lack of uptake. Kelly tried to provide options for us. We drove the scenic loop of the river today as far as Swan reach so were able to see the cliffs and appreciate some of the scenery we missed on the boat. The weather here has been mixed during our 2 day stay; rain. cloud, wind as well as bouts of clear visibility and sunshine. It’s a tour that is weather dependent and uptake numbers seem to vary so plan for some flexibility if you can. Driving home late after 11pm to Mannum worried us because of the wildlife but Joe pre warned us to keep speed low and we made a steady trip home avoiding two wildlife encounters. We are now just waiting for our refund. Thanks to the whole Juggle House team.
The information and insight into what we see above us was fascinating.
Joe was an excellent presented and guide for the night. Lyn and Kelly were also fantastic.
Kel is amazing 🤩 and will cater for most of your needs, however she does not have a direct line to Mother Nature 🌬️ different times of the year = different experiences just remember that when booking.
The astronomers that joined us (Lachie and Chloe) were very knowledgeable and helpful.
Their love for astronomy 🔭 is apparent.
I just wanted to sleep 💤 under those stars ✨ - perhaps 🤔 another experience Kel 👍
Highly recommend 👍
This tour was without a doubt one of the absolute highlights of my journey through Australia. The beauty of the Australian landscape was presented in such an authentic and relaxed way that you don’t just see it – you truly experience and enjoy it.
Kelly, our tour guide, did an outstanding job together with her local partners and friends. From the warm pickup in Mannum to the drive to the boat, everything was perfectly organised. The river cruise along the Murray was fascinating, with excellent explanations about the local wildlife shared with genuine passion and knowledge.
The traditional Australian BBQ using local produce was a real treat and a perfect way to round off the evening. The grand finale, however, was the stargazing experience under an incredibly clear night sky. With many fascinating facts and insights, it truly puts into perspective just how small our Earth is compared to the vastness of the universe 😉.
A beautifully organised tour filled with passion, expertise, and genuine hospitality – highly recommended!
Kelly, our tour guide, did an outstanding job together with her local partners and friends. From the warm pickup in Mannum to the drive to the boat, everything was perfectly organised. The river cruise along the Murray was fascinating, with excellent explanations about the local wildlife shared with genuine passion and knowledge.
The traditional Australian BBQ using local produce was a real treat and a perfect way to round off the evening. The grand finale, however, was the stargazing experience under an incredibly clear night sky. With many fascinating facts and insights, it truly puts into perspective just how small our Earth is compared to the vastness of the universe .
A beautifully organised tour filled with passion, expertise, and genuine hospitality – highly recommended!
Next we were driven in comfort to the dark sky reserve... and WOW. That was AMAZING!
Our astronomer host and his wife guided us through the night skies, with his extraordinary telescope. We saw Jupiter and Saturn, in incredible detail...and a cosmic galaxy with a million stars. It truly blew our minds!!
To top it off we stopped to observe a spectacular lightning show in the horizon on our drive home. Kelly made so many extra stops to include any thing and everything that popped up along the way. All extra, all at her time and expense. We will be back to do the moon crater night!!
5 star experience!!🥰🙌💚💛
We travelled along the riverbank to the discovery cruise, which was flawless. The vessel, the guide, and the commentary were all spot on, bringing the history and wildlife of the Murray to life. The abundance of birdlife was a highlight, and the two ferry crossings added a unique local touch.
Dinner was an Aussie-themed BBQ served at golden hour by the cliffs as the sun set – simply breathtaking. After a relaxed meal, we drove to a private, secluded location for stargazing. Lying under a brilliant summer sky, far from any sound or light pollution, was pure magic. The stars glowed brightly, and the setting felt exclusive and serene – the perfect moment to pause and reflect. (along with a milo and Mars bar!)
Kel, the host and owner, was exceptional – professional, warm, and full of genuine Aussie hospitality. You couldn’t ask for a better guide.
The tour wrapped up back in Mannum around 11 pm, and I left feeling like I had experienced something truly special. This is the perfect blend of nature, luxury, and authentic Australian charm. Highly recommended for all ages.
It was a highlight to meet and travel with Andrew who made sure we were comfortable and conversation flowed with insights into the Adelaide hills and beyond. We thoroughly enjoyed his company and felt like we had made a new friend.
Thankyou Andrew
Firstly Kelly has the best personality for conducting any tour. She was a perfect host dealing with my last minute booking request and internet issues smoothly and flexibly and with joy!
Her customised presentation to suit her tourism industry audience was the perfect balance of information about the history of the DarkSky place and the kind of data tourism people pour over.
The meal at the Mannun Pub was excellent - what a location set on the limpid Murray. The comfortable new buses, including the Party Bus, were excellent transport.
And the Stargazing experience? well it was wonderful. The view was clear of clouds and the instruction by Joe was clear and informative. Who knew Alpha Sentori was actually three stars?
As fellow member of the DarkSky community via our DarkSky Approved Lodging - Kestrel Nest EcoHut, I came along to support a fellow operator. As we have our own DarkSkies, I didnt expect to be dazzled by the stars, but I was. But more? I was dazzled by the whole experience , AND am taking away ideas of how we can further improve the DarkSky experience for our guests.
Congratulations Kelly and team and congratulations on your awards and recognition.
Amanda
It included a private cruise along the Murray River on sunset which was so informative as we learnt about the wildlife. Following this we enjoyed dinner while hearing from Kelly (owner of Juggle House) about the International Dark Sky and how her business began. We were then taken to the International Dark Sky Reserve on a private property; astronomers met us there and explained in detail the star constellations along with so many other interesting facts.
We strongly recommend this tour. Kelly was a great host and is a credit to the tourism industry of South Australia
We got to see Jupiter, Mars, shooting stars, and countless constellations through the telescope—it was truly fascinating. Huge thanks to Joe for his entertaining and insightful guidance. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and made everything so engaging.
Also, a big thank you to Kelly for the delicious hot chocolate and treats—they were the perfect addition to a magical night under the stars!
At the end of the session, I’d recommend opening the SkyView Lite app on your phone—it’s amazing to see the constellations take shape and gives you extra support for everything Joe explained.
Highly recommend this experience!
The Highlights tour was about visiting the Murray River region by road.
Kelly is a local and tour guide, who is so passionate about the area and this came across with her perfectly balanced itinerary.
My mum, sister and I had the most amazing time and highly recommend this company for any of their adventures if our trip was anything to go by.
Great work Juggle House Experiences 😊😊
Highly recommend this experience - you won’t regret it 😊
Review of Small-Group River Murray Dark Sky and Sunset Tour with Dinner
Kelly was an excellent host for this night of stargazing. Joe and his fellow astronomers were informative, incredibly knowledgeable, and passionate without being too technical. They were happy to chat and answer all questions.
The views through the powerful telescopes were amazing, and it helps to have some knowledge of what you are looking at.
We went over finishing time, as everyone was keen to see and learn more. I'm keen to go back in winter to see the Milky Way in its full glory.
I highly recommend this dark sky tour experience.
The views through the powerful telescopes were amazing, and it helps to have some knowledge of what you are looking at.
We went over finishing time, as everyone was keen to see and learn more. I'm keen to go back in winter to see the Milky Way in its full glory.
I highly recommend this dark sky tour experience.






























































