When travelling in Australia, I use British Airways Avios points to fly on Qantas, one of British Airways oneworld airline partners.

for (var i = 0; i < fields.length; ++i) { var field = fields[i], type = this.fieldType(field); if (type === 'checkboxes' || type === 'radio_buttons') { this.checkboxAndRadioValidation(field); } else { this.textAndDropdownValidation(field, type); } } }, fieldType: function(field) { var type = field.querySelectorAll('.field_type'); if (type.length) { return type[0].getAttribute('data-field-type'); } else if (field.className.indexOf('checkgroup') >= 0) { For information on what forms of payment are accepted onboard when travelling with us, visit our There are also plenty of fun activities around the park such as walking trails and the chance to spot some of Australias national animals, like koalas and kangaroos. But, theres also the train thing. A significant amount of development time was invested in the selection of the Railbed mattress type and materials. You can easily plan your trip with the full Spirit of Queensland timetable. . This plush seat offers ample recline for comfort along with a state-of-the-art touch screen personal entertainment system for on-demand movies, music and even audio books. The Spirit of Queensland has a maximum speed of 160km/h and the entire trip takes 24 hours.. The staff on the train will have the latest update for the day so just listen for their instructions if needed and come prepared. I enjoy train travel far more than flying but my overnight experiences were sadly not my favourites, even in a sleeper car, but this one looks pretty nice. var _this = this;

Definitely will keep in mind for my next Australia trip (hopefully soon!). var input = inputs[i]; thanks. var name = this.form.className; A small train compared to that of other epic rail journeys such as The Ghan, it has two locomotives and just seven carriages. } else if(result.single_opt_in || !result.confirmation_html) { } if (field.className.indexOf('invalid') === -1) {

htmlEmbedDropdownValidation: function(field) { The journey to Kuranda passes by some of the most breathtaking scenery, plus 15 handmade tunnels and 37 towering bridges and offers a truly unique rail adventure. I must admit they were pushing it, their case was 200 grams over. Trip in August 2014 between Innisfail and Gladstone. } However, when we helped them board yesterday the other guests in their carriage (B) who had boarded somewhere between Cairns and Townsville were not wearing masks. Cairns Spirit of Queensland Tilt Train Railbed - Australia's most modern overnight train Cairns to Brisbane RoryDing Travels 33.9K subscribers Join Subscribe 9.1K Share Save 673K views 1 year. In other words, you traded a three-dollar business class flight to spend 24-hours on a train?

this.validate(); The Club Car is licensed to sell alcohol from 10am - 12 midnight. }); a budget airline" was the reply from one of the assistants as the other two just laughed. } else { },

} See queenslandrailtravel.com.au See also: The world's greatest train journeys See also: What it's really like on Australia's greatest train journey Tim Richards Apr 4 2019 Traveller Can't recommend the RailBed highly enough and would definitely do this sort of experience again. Good luck! You could have flown business class on points, on a direct flight from Sydney to Cairns for $25 in taxes and fees. All services have aServery orCafonboardfor customers to purchasemeals and refreshments. The bathroom was kept impeccably clean throughout the trip. Any other drinks and snacks can be purchased from the club car, which is where premium economy passengers buy their meals. Not much. But even then it felt like such an old-fashioned thing to do. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future. }, Subscribe to our newsletter to follow our life on the road, learn more about sustainable travel practices, and be the first to learn about updates from the blog! by Anne Betts | Nov 7, 2019 | Australia | 8 comments. Well, one of my things. First meal was around mid-day on Day One, quite a serviceable chicken noodle dish with a sticky-date pudding for dessert. }); Cons Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation.

function extend(destination, source) { }, Its quite exciting and Im grinning like a kid on a theme park ride as I pop my head under the curtains to see the shadows of trees whizzing past and the moon and the stars shining above. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. So really the choice is up to you, and whatever you feel comfortable doing. e.preventDefault();

On our recent trip to Australia, we discovered the beauty of traveling around the East Coast of Australia by train and its now an experience that we highly recommend to others. In our opinion, it is, especially if you take it as an opportunity to stop along the way and break up your journey. } else { return name; Full Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Pontoon Experience . I would like to say it was a wonderful experience. We took the Queensland Class train from Cairns to Brisbane to give us a chance to see Australia and give us a break from internal flights. var input = this; the only improvement seems to be more leg room and a bigger toilet/shower room. } else { this.htmlEmbedDropdownValidation(field); The Ultimate Guide to Australia on a Budget, The Ultimate Sydney to Brisbane Drive Itinerary, Where to Stay in Brisbane: Guide to Neighbourhood and Best Hotels in Brisbane, The Best Things To Do in Port Douglas, Australia. It was so much better than what we had ever gotten on a plane. } else { I was told that I had to repack it. The RailBed is a spacious and comfortable seat by day that includes a state-of-the-art personal entertainment system and 240v powerpoint. There was an extra seat that folded down under the TV. Im glad you enjoyed your Spirit of Queensland adventure as much as I did. The RailBed class is a top-notch travel experience at an affordable price. Another is that its an opportunity to take in the scenery. this.isValid = false; The journey to Kuranda passes by. The bed at night was SERIOUSLY uncomfortable. Required fields are marked *. this.submit.value = this.submit.getAttribute('data-submitting-text'); script.src = this.formUrl('json'); Onboard Payment Options page. Since 2015, we have been traveling full-time with a mission to inspire others to follow in our footsteps. } Your email address will not be published. removeTextFieldError: function(input) { The bed and bedding were very comfortable. var dropdownEl = input.parentNode, We were also thrilled to see that the Galley Car meals were served with Biopak biodegradable cutlery! If you enjoy train travel, it might be for you. nice way to travel along the coast of Queensland, relax read a book enjoy a movie, have a coffee, eat a meal enjoy the view. I was a little wary of the 2-1 configuration and sharing sleeping space with 18 other passengers. Cairns is an excellent base and launching point for exploring Far North Queensland. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Over the years Ive been lucky to have travelled on some pretty incredible trains around the world. inputs[j].onkeyup = function() { For dessert, I had the tiramisu cake. Our FREE AUSTRALIA Travel Guide is a great resource for planning a trip to Australia! 2 Days / 1 Night aboard the Spirit of Queensland from Brisbane to Cairns in a lie-flat RailBed with lunch and dinner. At busy times, it was possible to buy a drink and take it back to the comfort of your seat. QueenslandRailTravel, Customer Service - Travel at Tilt Train, responded to this review, This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC, Recommended experiences in and around Brisbane. input.className = 'required'; Let us assist with your travel documents. Premium Economy from $221, Railbed from $389. My bag weighted 20.1kg, 100 grams over weight. Contact Queensland Rail to find out how your travel plans can be accommodated. The Staff on the Queenslander are EXCELLENT! This website contains some affiliate links, so if you click on a link and book something I will get a little something to help pay those blogging bills, but dont worry, its no extra cost to you. Surely for that amount of money something more comfortable must have been possible. The three meals were delivered on a trolley to each seat. var action = this.form.action; When: All year round. Tea and coffee were also provided. Planning your next trip? How do you return from Cairns when trip finishes I believe it finishes at night. It was a welcome break from the frenetic pace of busy airports, enhanced security-screening measures, and cramped aircraft space. I have used the rail beds twice in about 5 years, Bris. For information on the site, please see the, Ride the historic railway to the hinterland, Sydney at its best: A self-guided tour of The Rocks, the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and points in between, Cycling around Uluru: the best way to experience Australias most recognizable natural landmark, https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/Pages/Assistance-Animals.aspx, Whats the best use of Scotia Rewards? textFieldError: function(input) { } else { In-seat wine and dine service and entertainment aboard the Spirit of Queensland. For us, trains offer the best alternative to flying. Joanna, my parents left Townsville yesterday (arriving in Brisbane this morning) and were told, yes, at this time it would be necessary for them to wear their masks at all times while travelling as Townsville was in a 3 day lockdown last week. The route was dotted with coastal towns, each with its own character. if (response.success) { The drawstring bag included shampoo, conditioner, face mist, lip balm, body lotion, face cloth, eye mask, earplugs, and headphones. document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function() { text = this.submit.getAttribute('data-default-text'); A selection of Queensland wines and beverages is also available. }

} Railbeds - Spirit of Queensland. Thanks for sharing Nicki. No other words are needed. Guaranteed. Sorry to hear yours wasnt what you were hoping for. 5 Nights at 4-star Rydges Cairns Esplanade Resort with breakfast daily and welcome drink. if (this.isValid) { The lack of privacy was unpleasant and with the exception of one shower room, the bathroom facilities were very cramped with wet floors. Toilet seats have become loose and generally a good refurbishment program would work wonders. Unlike the Sunlander where meals are all freshly prepared in the kitchen, here theyre more airline food style. Premium economy-class passengers buy their meals from the Galley and some choose to eat in the Club Car so it can become congested at meal times. I had seen a couple of tv shows about this new train, so I decided to travel from Cairns to Townsville in the so call premium economy. You can catch the Brisbane to Cairns train five times a week and have the option of booking RailBed or Premium Economy seats. Whether you're travelling to see the natural wonders of the north or to catch the twinkling lights of the city in Brisbane, the Spirit of Queensland is an easy and sustainable way to travel between Brisbane and Cairns. Thanks, If you are in the Sleeping carriage can you still walk through to the Dining / Club carriage for coffee etc. The premium economy carriages feature leather seats, entertainment systems with on demand movies, TV and music in the back of the seat in front of you and a 30 degree seat recline. RAILBED Spacious reclinable seat Seat converts to a lie-flat bed at night All-inclusive in-seat dining experience including two course meals with complimentary beverage Linen, pillow, towel and amenities pack provided On-demand entertainment Tray table, reading light, drink holder, footrest and 240-volt power point };

We are Oksana & Max, eco-conscious travelers on a mission to inspire responsible travel practices around the world. for (var i = 0; i < instances.length; ++i) { Not as far as Im aware, but youre best to check with Queensland Rail about that one to be sure. input.placeholder = ''; Features this.submit.value = text; There are stops for passengers to board and disembark. I'm Anne, a dedicated carry-on traveller. } new Mimi.Signups.EmbedValidation(); QLD trains, forget the hype NOTHING HAS CHANGED except the prices. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A speedier trip isnt the only change between the two, as while the Sunlander had private sleeping compartments, the Spirit of Queensland has two classes and both remind me of something youd usually see in the sky. I am sure the passengers at the other end of the platform were all now awake. The Spirit of Queenslands RailBed experience was one of the most relaxing journeys Ive ever had. Cairns is an excellent base and launching point for exploring Far North Queensland. While the Sunlanders Queenslander class had a full dining car, the Spirit of Queenslands RailBeds continue that airline feel with a trolley service, so you can have dinner and a movie without moving from your seat. }, if (input.id === 'signup_email') return;

It says there are a point for sleep apnea machine as I am travelling in September with mine so made the same enquiry and told them at time of booking. Here are just a few of them: Noosa is one of the most popular holiday destinations in all of Queensland and is home to the most visited National Park in the country. if (format === 'json') action += '.json'; The RailBed is a spacious and comfortable seat by day that includes a state-of-the-art personal entertainment system and 240v powerpoint. field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); return text; I did removed one article and my case now weighted 18kgs. One of the advantages of train travel is that travelling between city centres is usually more convenient and less costly than getting to and from airports. RailBed passengers also receive a lip balm, hand sanitser and hand cream from Queensland skincare brand, Bubbles Organic. } else { There are the non-RailBed carriages that might meet your needs. Travelling between Brisbane and Cairns five times a week, the Spirit of Queensland redefines the modern rail travel experience with a comfortable and convenient way to access spectacular holiday destinations such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Townsville and Cairns and everywhere in between. instance.onSelect = function(){ _this.validate() }; Yes. this.submit.className = 'disabled'; By night they are converted into the sort of flat bed that Id be very happy to find on a plane, measuring 1.9m x 0.51m. I would have appreciated Wi-Fi to look up stuff on the fly such as How did the Glasshouse Mountains get their name? or When is sugar cane harvested? Also, a lounge would have been a more attractive spot to relax than the Galley / Club Car. Hope this helps.

textValidation: function(input) { The Spirit of Queensland train is quite possibly the most comfortable and convenient way to hit up some of the most popular tourist spots along the Queensland coast. for (var i = 0; i < inputs.length; ++i) { var input = inputs[i]; if (input.name.indexOf('signup') >= 0) { this.submit.value = this.submitButtonText(); return 'checkboxes'; Your trip your way! } Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, Croc Express to Australia Zoo from Brisbane. Spirit of Qld Rail Bed. dropdown.onchange = (function(){ _this.validate(); }); If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. }; With a high ticket price, many would wonder, is the journey on the train really worth it? The entertainment schedule changes regularly, but you can check it ahead of your trip via the Spirit of Queensland entertainment guide. Can you take the train from Brisbane to Cairns but get on and off overnight in various places en route? Trains are more sustainable and more comfortable and not only that but going at a slower pace allows you to see more of the Australian countryside without the crazy cost of multiple flights. For breakfast, there was a choice of hot or cold option served at around 7 am. if (input.value) { this.fieldAndListValidation(); We do appreciate your honest feedback and thank you for taking the time to review our train. , or one of the many wildlife and nature experiences just outside of the city. 50+ Reasons Why to Go Downunder with Goway, All main meals served directly to your seat, Personal entertainment featuring a large screen with on-demand movies, music and audio books, Seat features include reading light, footrest, drink holder, 240v power adapter and USB charging, Towel and personal amenity pack with Queensland organic and sustainable products, All bed linen provided (sheets, duvet & pillow), RailBed customers may check in two (2) items of luggage not exceeding 20kg each (44 pounds), plus one item of carry on hand luggage free of charge, Carry on luggage for under-seat or overhead compartments is maximum size of 23cm x 34cm x 48cm and a maximum weight of 20kg. },

You can spend a few days just exploring Airlie Beach with its palm-fringed beaches, bars and restaurants before going island hopping or, sailing around the 74 islands of the Whitsundays, Not only is Cairns a hub of vibrant city life full of great cafs, markets, art galleries, and nearby beaches, but its also.

if (input.value) { See queenslandrailtravel.com.au - Traveller An unanticipated problem. The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options. }, Ask the airfare experts at GowayAir. }, Categories. this.submit.className = this.isValid ? Its beautiful out there, and I feel lucky to be seeing this part of Queensland in a completely new way. We stopped for 5 days, enjoying some time in Airlie Beach, in the Whitsundays and on the Great Barrier Reef. For anyone who loves train travel, Queensland Rails, The Spirit of Queensland service operates from Brisbane to Cairns, a distance of 1,681 kilometres (1,045 miles). Dear TDK1962,Many thanks for your kind review. Copyright 2022 Adventures All Around | Website by Liveby5. destination[prop] = source[prop]; I travelled from Roma St to Ayr and return on the Spirit of Queensland 'Rail Bed'. . The Spirit of Queensland. Dear Aussieart,We thank you for providing feedback on your Spirit of Queensland journey with us recently.We are disappointed to hear that your experience was marred by one or more Queensland Rail Travel staff members. Let's jump onboard!0:00 Cairns1:49 Spirit of Queensland3:16 Luggage check-in4:10 Carriage layout9:05 Cairns, Morning tea, Gordonvale12:27 Railbed seat part 113:28 Babinda, Innisfail15:05 Railbed seat part 218:10 Lounge Car, Tully, Cardwell21:31 Lunch23:12 Ingham, Townsville25:12 Pizza of the day25:59 Giru, Ayr, Home Hill27:55 Bowen, Proserpine29:27 Dinner, Mackay32:44 Seat --- Bed35:16 Rocky!36:35 Shower38:30 Gympie North, Nambour40:24 Breakfast, Caboolture42:30 SummaryThis video was filmed on 10 and 11 September 2021Train type: Spirit of Queensland (Diesel Tilt Train)From Cairns to Brisbane Roma StreetTravel time: 24h45mDistance: 1681kmSeat: B/11Class: Railbed SleeperCost: $389$120 on Egypt's most Luxurious Night Train from Cairo to Aswan - Deluxe Sleeper Cabin: https://youtu.be/jCI7eZKYnCQFirst High-Speed Railway in Turkey - TCDD YHT Istanbul to Ankara Business Class Siemens Velaro train: https://youtu.be/c6Sxy5ZX3A8Night Train Across Turkey - $50 Private Sleeping Cabin from Ankara to Izmir in TCDD TVS2000 railcar: https://youtu.be/SwNhyngYBsc10 days, 7100km train journey across Australia, Cairns to Perth by Rail: https://youtu.be/C1BmtiI9dS8The INDIAN PACIFIC 2022: Adelaide to Perth in GOLD TWIN - luxury sleeper train across Australia: https://youtu.be/CIUnEnBQPHQChristmas on the Great Southern Train - Australia's newest luxury rail journey Adelaide to Brisbane: https://youtu.be/WwJLTROA7Z0The GHAN Platinum Class Adelaide to Darwin - 3,000km luxurious train journey across Australia: https://youtu.be/llxr70sFWB4SPIRIT OF TASMANIA ferry inaugural sailing from Devonport to Geelong - 23 Oct 2022: https://youtu.be/as3gxC8WH8kTravelling on every type of V/Line train in ONE DAY! Another route through the Outback, this time going from Brisbane to Charleville, taking in the picturesque scenery of the.

Mimi.Signups.EmbedValidation = function() { After folks settled in, a more social atmosphere prevailed, especially while watching staff make up the beds. Our toolkit is a great place to get started. Your entertainment system might not work or the content could be uninspiring. Let us customize a dream holiday for you. So let me get this straight. this.textValidation(input); Staff made them up, and returned the beds to seats, on demand. } }, Your email address will not be published. For dinner, we once again had a choice of a 3-course meal. inputs[j].onchange = function(){ _this.validate() }; selected = true; The Spirit of Queensland runs between Cairns and Brisbane five times a week. Before leaving home Id already decided I was going the PJs route and had packed my Singapore Airlines sleep suit. He did ask if he could pay for the excess, in his case 200 grams. If I had known about the collection procedure at Townsville station, I would have done this. Cost: 390 dollars for a rail bed fare at time of publication. return name += ' mimi_invalid'; The. I had never thought about train travel in Australia, until reading In A Sunburned Country. It was more expensive than flying but an attractive option, all things considered. Another route through the Outback, this time going from Brisbane to Charleville, taking in the picturesque scenery of the Great Dividing Range and the Darling Downs farmland along the way. onSubmitSuccess: function(result) { The fold-down seat had a pocket for reading material and assorted items. Meals will be delivered directly to Railbed guests and the 24 hour Club Car is available for additional purchases. The ones in the amenities kit are cheap and flimsy. What attracted me to the Spirit of Queensland was the RailBed class. In the evening the onboard team convert the seat to a lie-flat bed with all linen provided. var _this = this; The spinach & feta quick was definitely our favourite! Each one can recline to thirty degrees. this.isValid = false; The final product was among a number of options put to testers and was selected as the most comfortable option. this.form.attachEvent('onsubmit', function(e){ The train makes the 1681km journey five times per week. On the south-to-north service, the stop in Tully was long enough for passengers to stretch their legs on the platform. Also, Id steer clear of selecting seats near doors that open and close frequently. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the country we traverse. }); return action + '?callback=' + this.callbackName + '&' + serialize(this.form); Water Fountains - Drinking fountains are located at the end of all passenger carriages. The customer service was fantastic - the staff very clearly enjoy doing a good job and the food that was served us was delicious. Are people forced to wear masks on the train? Its still all fresh Queensland produce but its mostly been prepped on land before its finished on board. } It provides two new travel options for customers: State-of-the-art personal entertainment systems featuring a large screen with on-demand movies, music and audiobooks.

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