Story courtesy of Coastlines magazine. Words: Susie Williams.The Coorong region is a haven of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological importance. Coast Lines was recently invited to experience the extraordinary Spirit of the Coorong Cruises, uncovering the beauty and heritage of this remarkable region. A collaboration between Spirit of Australia Cruises and Mark Koolmatrie of Kool Tours, the tour combines breathtaking scenery with cultural insights, drawing on the traditions of the Ngarrindjeri people, the region’s traditional custodians.A legacy on the waterThe Spirit of the Coorong Cruises began in 1998, but the Veenstra family’s connection to marine tourism dates back to 1967 with their very first vessel, Aroona. Renowned for their expertise in boat building and water tourism, the Veenstra family has long been pioneers in South Australian tourism. Their enduring legacy is reflected in the Spirit of the Coorong’s reputation for providing exceptional and innovative experiences.Joel Hirsch, General Manager of Spirit Australia Cruises, speaks passionately about managing such a special operation. "The Coorong is an incredible place—a wild, windswept patchwork of vegetation and rolling sand dunes," he says. "Everything Colin Thiele described in Storm Boy comes alive here. Who wouldn’t want an office in a place like this?”A journey aboard the Spirit of the CoorongThe tour begins under the towering Hindmarsh Island Bridge, a striking structure completed in 2001. Joel provides commentary on its design and the controversy surrounding its construction, linked to the Ngarrindjeri people’s fight to protect sacred lands in the 1990s. The bridge’s story is a powerful reminder of the intersection of cultural heritage and infrastructure development.From the bridge, the cruise makes its way to the Goolwa Barrages, a series of locks separating Lake Alexandrina’s freshwater from the Murray Mouth’s salty waters. These barrages are vital for controlling salinity levels and preserving the river’s ecosystem. The area is rich in wildlife, with New Zealand fur seals basking nearby and pelicans thriving in the nutrient-rich waters.Cultural connections with Kool ToursThe partnership with Mark Koolmatrie and Kool Tours adds an authentic and spiritual dimension to the experience. Mark’s knowledge taps into the profound connection between the Ngarrindjeri people and their land, offering visitors a holistic perspective of the Coorong. His contributions enrich the tour with traditional stories and a Welcome to Country ceremony that deepens the connection to this sacred landscape.During the Barkers Knoll beach walk, Mark’s insights into the area’s cultural significance enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings. The abundance of Pipi shells and the undisturbed sand dunes reveal the Coorong as a gathering place for generations of Ngarrindjeri people.Witnessing the Murray mouthThe Murray Mouth, where the River Murray flows into the Great Southern Ocean, is a striking highlight of the tour. Here, the contrasting forces of calm river waters and roaring ocean waves come together in a display of nature’s power. Joel explains the ongoing efforts to maintain the mouth’s natural flow, including regular sand dredging to prevent it from closing—a stark reminder of the environmental pressures on this iconic site.A destination worth visitingThe Spirit of the Coorong tour is more than a scenic cruise—it’s an opportunity to engage with the cultural, historical, and environmental richness of the region. From its striking landscapes to its deep cultural connections, the Coorong offers something for everyone.This remarkable experience highlights the importance of preserving such unique places for future generations. Spirit of the Coorong Cruises continues to champion this cause by combining education, exploration, and conservation. Visitors leave with unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for this iconic South Australian destination.For more information or to book a tour, visit Spirit of the Coorong Cruises.