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Beloved Murray River icon Proud Mary wins Specialised Tourism Service at the 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards for the 3rd consecutive year, leading to induction into the South Australian Tourism Hall of Fame.

At tourism’s night of nights, the 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards held at the Convention Centre on Friday 8th November by TICSA, the Tourism Industry Council South Australia, the Murray River vessel Proud Mary was crowned the State’s best Specialised Tourism Service.

It is the third consecutive year the Proud Mary has been acknowledged as best operator, which now sees this unique river experience inducted into the South Australian Tourism Hall of Fame.

It is a fitting reward for Proud Mary and her whole team which continues to deliver a premium cruising experience on Australia’s greatest river. The win is testament to the vision of Proud Mary’s three owners, Dennis Sims, Matthew Sims and Mark Greig, who have embarked on an intense six-year refurbishment program, backed by a philosophy of providing uncompromising levels of service, five-star cuisine with local themes and embellishments, exceptional amenities and unique river adventures.

Managing Partner, Matthew Sims, is elated with the win. “Being recognised as an outstanding local operator reflects our 110 per cent commitment to Murray River tourism.  But now, to win three years in a row, truly demonstrates that we are the best specialised tourism service,” said Matthew.  

“When we purchased Proud Mary nine years ago, our vision was to rebuild this iconic South Australian tourism product into a premiere cruising experience on the Murray River, so it’s wonderful to receive this accolade.

“After all those years of hard work, driven by our significant financial investment and unwavering love of the Murray River, we’ve finally realised our vision. That’s amazing in itself, but to receive this highest of accolades is truly humbling.”

Proud Mary cruises operate 365 days of the year. With just 18 superbly appointed ensuite cabins, each guest is assured of unrivalled personal service, exceptional amenities, five-star dining and memorable river experiences.