This October 2019, experience an epic coast to country odyssey with ecruising’s incredible 14-night Rail & Sail: Southern Australia & The Golden Ghan journey. This captivating itinerary truly showcases the contrasts of Australia’s cool coast and rolling rugged outback with some of its most cosmopolitan capital cities including Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide – not to mention the quirky charm of the Northern Territory’s Katherine and Darwin.
Departing Sydney on 25 October 2019, your journey begins with a 7-night cruise onboard the superbly appointed Golden Princess. Among the magnificent ship’s many features are 3 formal dining rooms, 3 state-of-the-art show lounges, a wine and caviar bar, an extensive library, a world-class art collection, a variety of pools, a 9-hole putting course, a casino and even a kid’s video game arcade – guaranteeing there is sure to be something to keep every guest entertained, big and small.
Highlights include a port stop in Melbourne, voted the world’s most liveable city 7 years in a row, and a chance to explore its many attractions and hidden charms. Then, get the camera ready as you cruise off to rugged Phillip Island, giving you a chance to spot its famous penguin parade. Next stop is Port Lincoln on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, where you can indulge in the gastronomic delights of Australia’s self-appointed Seafood Capital. From here you’ll head to Kangaroo Island, renowned for its unique wildlife, breathtaking scenery and mouth-watering food, before disembarking in Adelaide, the City of Churches on 1 November for 2 nights to immerse yourself in the bustling cultural and art scene.
On 3 November prepare to embark on the next phase of your journey, stepping aboard legendary passenger train, The Ghan. Spend your first day watching the rolling pastoral lands of South Australia merge into rugged Mallee scrub. Marvel as the spectacular Flinders Ranges disappear into the horizon, all the while enjoying the solitude of your cabin, reading or catching up on your favourite podcast, then mingling with fellow travellers in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant for a delicious lunch and fine wines.
Wake up to an unforgettable outback sunrise in the most remote reaches of South Australia. Experience a serene camel ride across incredible ochre landscapes, visit iconic Uluru and Kata Juta or indulge in your spirit of adventure with a thrilling helicopter ride over the 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges before arriving into Katherine that evening. Spend your final morning with the local traditional land owners, sharing their culture and learning about bush skills developed over thousands of years including basket weaving, spear throwing, fire lighting, painting and learning the Didgeridoo. Or choose to upgrade your excursion with a helicopter or scenic flight over Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks.
Disembarking in Darwin that evening, enjoy a 3-night stay at the spectacular Hilton Darwin, the perfect base from which to explore the Territory’s tropical capital offering everything from crocodile encounters to open-air movies and sunset cruises, before flying home on 8 November.
Priced from $4,299 per person twin share for a limited time, ecruising’s 14-night Rail & Sail: Southern Australia and The Golden Ghan journey includes all accommodation, all meals and selected beverages on board The Ghan, transfers and a range of off-train excursions at key stops (excluding optional helicopter and scenic flights).
*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
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