A Princess cruise ship and two historic trains will be showcased in a unique, new, six-day ‘slow travel’ rail and sail escape from Sydney to Melbourne and return in November 2022.
Hosted by Cruise Express, which specialises in cruises and heritage rail journeys, the short break begins in Sydney on November 2, 2022.
Perfect for both cruise and rail lovers, the five-night tour begins with a relaxing, two-night cruise from Sydney to Melbourne aboard Princess Cruises’ Grand Princess as she returns to Australian shores after more than two long years.
On arrival in Melbourne, guests will spend two nights at the Batman’s Hill on Collins Hotel with free time to enjoy Melbourne’s famous gardens, cafes, boutiques and trams.
Also included is a mystery tour of Melbourne’s suburban rail lines onboard the recently refurbished heritage electric ‘Taits’ and lunch. Known affectionately as ‘Red Rattlers’ these wooden electric trains were common across suburban Melbourne from the 1910s through until the 1980s.
On day five it’s then all aboard original compartment and parlor cars formerly used on the famed ‘Spirit of Progress’ train, for the journey from Melbourne to Albury and an overnight stay. Privately chartered by Cruise Express, this former express train ran from 1937 to 1986.
The final day of the trip will see guests board the ‘Cruise Express’, for the last leg of the trip from Albury to Sydney, with lunch inside the heritage-listed Junee Railway Station en route.
The six-day Grand Rail and Sail trip from Sydney is available from $2390 per person, twin-share, or $2990 solo, in an Inside cabin. Fares for Oceanview, Balcony and Suite accommodation are also available on request.
Bookings made before July 31, 2022, will receive a complimentary premium onboard drinks package and WiFi. This offer is subject to availability.
Call Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au
Direct link to package: https://cruiseexpress.com.au/cruise-list/grand-rail-sail/