Australian Rail Journeys

The Indian Pacific

Route: Sydney - Adelaide - Perth.

Duration: 3 nights in either direction.

Distance: 4352 kilometres.

Frequency: Twice weekly in both directions.

The Indian Pacific gives you two oceans on one of the world's longest and greatest train journeys. But most of your cruising will be across the vast continent of Australia. From the spectacular Blue Mountains to the treeless plains of The Nullarbor, where the train travels the world's longest straight stretch of railway track (478 kilometres), see unique landscapes unfold and spot a fascinating array of wildlife from the comfort of the lounge or your cabin. Get up close and see the sights of some of our most famous outback towns when you enjoy an optional off-train sightseeing tour. The great train offers these tours during scheduled stops at Broken Hill, Adelaide and gold rich Kalgoorlie. A remote outpost on the Nullarbor Plain called Cook presents a further opportunity to stretch your legs. All along the Indian Pacific route, keep an eye out for a sighting of the magnificent Australian wedge tailed eagle, the symbol of this great train. It's massive wingspan of up to two metres will make it easy to spot in a clear desert sky.

The Ghan

Route: Adelaide – Alice Springs – Darwin.

Duration: 2 nights in either direction.

Distance: 2979 kilometres.

Frequency: Once weekly Adelaide to Darwin. Twice weekly Adelaide to Alice Springs. 

The Ghan. It’s an odd name for a train but in Australian history it is a living legend. The legend has soared to new heights with the extension of The Ghan journey to Darwin. When The Ghan first departed Adelaide for Alice Springs, it was always intended that it would one day travel through to Darwin. More than 70 years on, that dream has become reality. Boarding The Ghan in Adelaide or Darwin, experience one of the most fascinating great train journeys of the world. Connections are available on the Indian Pacific and The Overland for guests travelling to or from Sydney and Melbourne. Enjoy 2 nights aboard this great train in either direction. Marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes from fertile countryside surrounding Adelaide to the rusty hues of the Red Centre, onto the tropical splendour of the Top End. The Ghan is the ultimate journey through the heart of the continent

The Overland

Route: Adelaide – Melbourne.

Duration: Daylight Service Adelaide to Melbourne / Overnight Melbourne to Adelaide.

Distance: 828 kilometres.

Frequency: Four times weekly between Adelaide and Melbourne.

The Overland commenced service in 1887, pioneering intercapital rail travel between Melbourne and Adelaide. The century old name came from the term "Overlander", an adventurer who had travelled across the country. In recognition of its history, The Overland’s emblem is the Kookaburra, symbolic of a new day and new beginnings. The Overland today remains a comfortable and convenient way to travel between these two southern cities.

The Sunlander 

Comfort, flexibility and a great social atmosphere have made The Sunlander one of Australia’s great journeys and a firm favourite with travellers between Brisbane and Cairns. This scenic journey, which snakes its way along Queensland's east coast several times a week, offers travel options to suit every traveller – from the most discerning through to the budget conscious. For those who crave the creature comforts, Queenslander Class is the only way to travel. 

Four weekly departures north from Brisbane - Sunday and Thursday to Cairns with Queenslander Class; Tuesday and Saturday to Townsville without Queenslander Class.

Four weekly departures south to Brisbane - Tuesday and Saturday from Cairns with Queenslander Class; Monday and Thursday from Townsville without Queenslander Class.

Spirit of the Outback 

An Outback adventure starts with a journey on the Spirit of the Outback. 

This fascinating 1,300 km journey between Brisbane and Longreach offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia, combined with interesting commentary, a social atmosphere and an authentic dining experience. From the comfort of a sleeper or seat, passengers will wonder at the ever-changing landscape as the train moves from the coast into the heart of the Outback with its rugged mountains, wide-open plains and historic towns. Onboard dining is an experience in itself with the restaurant car serving hearty Aussie meals, while the club and lounge cars are ideal for a relaxed drink and chinwag with fellow passengers. The touring opportunities at each destination are endless with a host of attractions including the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Outback Heritage Centre and Qantas Founders Museum. 

So jump aboard the Spirit of the Outback and discover the real Australia. 

The Spirit of the Outback travels along the east coast of Queensland, from Brisbane to Rockhampton, where it heads west through Blackwater, Emerald and Barcaldine, to Longreach (and vice-versa).

Twice weekly leaving from Brisbane Tuesday and Saturday evenings. Departs Longreach on Mondays and Thursday mornings.

The Gulflander 

Fondly referred to as the old `tin hare’, the Gulflander is one of the world’s last great characters of rail travel and offers you a unique experience. \

This historic little train takes you on a journey with a difference from remote Normanton to far flung Croydon through the tough and inhospitable Gulf Country. The Gulflander only carries a small number of passengers, so there's always a friendly casual atmosphere on board, which is all part of the charm.

An adult economy fare from Normanton to Blackbull is $40.00 and to Croydon $52.00

The Savannahlander

If you're looking for a great train adventure, The Savannahlander will take you on a leisurely trip between Cairns and Forsayth, in the heart of the Gulf Savannah, North Queensland. 

On board you will experience first hand a unique encounter with the region's uncanny geological formations, history and legends. And from the themed interior of the train, which literally speaks the language of the land through which it travels, you will come face to face with Australia's natural inhabitants - kangaroos and emus. One of the last great train adventures.

On the outbound journey, the train pauses overnight in Almaden. This is so those passengers on combined packages (enquire when you book) can take advantage of an extra detour. In the extended package, coach connections operate west from Almaden to the old mining village of Chillagoe where ruins of the Chillagoe Smelters, built at the turn of the last century and operated until 1943, still dominate the skyline. Today visitors marvel at the spectacular Chillagoe limestone Caves, the balancing rock formation and the significant Aboriginal rock-art sites. 

Train departs Cairns on Wednesdays and return from Forsayth on Fridays.