function extend(destination, source) { Ive spent a lot of nights sleeping on trains and its true this one isnt like the ones Ive been on before with private cabins. My partner and I chose to do Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of Queensland. this.textValidation(input); Most people seemed to have pyjamas for sleeping. Youll have your own reading light, a power point for charging your phone or other electrical devices, overhead lockers, and in-seat entertainment. this.onSubmitSuccess(response.result); For $389?. For anyone who loves train travel, Queensland Rails Spirit of Queensland is a fabulous choice. It was a welcome break from the frenetic pace of busy airports, enhanced security-screening measures, and cramped aircraft space. Next. Amanda Woods travelled on Spirit of Queensland and the Sunlander as a guest of Queensland Rail, and stayed as a guest of the Brisbane Hilton. My young friend shook her head in disbelief at the absurdity of my travel choices. } else { The Spirit of Queensland has a maximum speed of 160km/h and the entire trip takes 24 hours.. I did this trip recently and I loved it to bits, except for one thing and I'll get to that. this.submit.value = this.submit.getAttribute('data-submitting-text'); All services have aServery orCafonboardfor customers to purchasemeals and refreshments. this.submit = document.getElementById('webform_submit_button'); field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); Tea and coffee were also provided. If youre travelling solo, reserve a seat in the single bed aisle at the time of booking. Perhaps Ill give it another chance. #1543989; CST #2016613-20. We left from Cairns, around 8.30am, heading for Brisbane. Not as far as Im aware, but youre best to check with Queensland Rail about that one to be sure. },
input.className = 'required invalid'; return 'text_field'; 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. } else { The three meals were delivered on a trolley to each seat. There are slightly different food options depending on your ticket type, but there is a good general selection of seasonal dishes, with gluten free, dairy free and veggie options. this.updateSubmitButtonText(this.submit.getAttribute('data-thanks')); You feel connected to the rails, and as the train tilts, so do you. if (this.isValid) { You can also get connecting coach services to Quilpie and Cunnamulla. Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation, the newest addition to the Queensland Rail Travel fleet has two dedicated RailBed Cars, a shared Club Car and three Premium Economy Seat Cars. For dessert, I had the tiramisu cake. Onboard Payment Options page. 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 The RailBed class is a top-notch travel experience at an affordable price. I am sure the passengers at the other end of the platform were all now awake. Before leaving home Id already decided I was going the PJs route and had packed my Singapore Airlines sleep suit. A 24-hour journey from Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of Queensland train will set you back by $370 per seat for a Premium Economy Seat and over $860 for a RailBed seat. _this.onFormSubmit(e); It must have come from a very happy cow who smiled a lot because it was very tender. } Two of them, dinner and lunch, included a complimentary soft drink, juice, water, beer, or wine. With the beds all made up, the lights dimmed and the curtains closed, the RailBeds feel like a fun slumber party. We traveled from Brisbane to Cairns in RailBed seats and were impressed with the comfort and service level in RailBed Class. Get your FREE subscription today. You can easily plan your trip with the full Spirit of Queensland timetable. It arrives at 4:30 pm. top.location.href = result.redirect; for (var i = 0; i < fields.length; ++i) { }, Disembark here to enjoy the crystal clear blue waters on the shores of the Noosa National Park. The Club Car is licensed to sell alcohol from 10am - 12 midnight. Staff were noisily rushing from one end of the carriage to the other all through the night, talking loudly and jangling keys, and bumping from side to side as the train lurched along. It is unfortunate to hear that you considered the Railbed seat by-day uncomfortable as many of our customers have advised us of their satisfaction with the comfort of the seats. Disembark here to enjoy the crystal clear blue waters on the shores of the, Hop off the Spirit of Queensland train and. Theres also a Galley / Club Car, and a carriage for luggage and crew. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. 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. var dropdownEl = input.parentNode, This new train has allowed us to reduce the total travel time between Brisbane in the south and Cairns in the north from 31 hours on The Sunlander, down to 24 hours on the Spirit of Queensland. The journey takes roughly 25 hours. At night, the staff recline the seats turning them into flat beds so you can enjoy a good night sleep and arrive at your destination well rested and refreshed. top.location.href = this.formUrl('html'); 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. The water was hot and the pressure was perfect. The Spirit of Queensland train journey is a 1681 kilometre route taking about 24-25 hours from Brisbane to Cairns. Do you need a Visa to enter? var inputs = fields[i].getElementsByTagName('input'); this.isValid = true; 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. We're looking forward to more trips with Queensland Rail. textAndDropdownValidation: function(field, type) { Railbed Car - Spirit of Queensland. this.submit.disabled = !this.isValid; . var _this = this; The three premium economy cars have adjustable leather lounger seats in a 2 2 configuration. This traditional diesel train journeys through the diverse and ever-changing scenery between Brisbane and Longreach with coach connections to Winston, offering the perfect outback experience. removeTextFieldError: function(input) { Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. if (!Mimi.Signups) Mimi.Signups = {}; You could have flown business class on points, on a direct flight from Sydney to Cairns for $25 in taxes and fees. if (_this.validEmail.test(input.value)) _this.validate(); Enjoy the trip! Cost: 390 dollars for a rail bed fare at time of publication. Contact Queensland Rail to find out how your travel plans can be accommodated. We are storytellers, photographers, and videographers traveling the world full-time in search of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences and ways to make a positive impact on the destinations and communities we visit. I travelled in the RailBed from Cairns to Brisbane and the whole experience was exceptional - I enjoyed every second of it. for (var i = 0; i < instances.length; ++i) { The new Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the romance of long distance rail travel. 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. field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); The Spirit of Queensland runs between Cairns and Brisbane five times a week. }, The bathroom was kept impeccably clean throughout the trip. Theres a locomotive at each end. The train attains a top speed of 160 kph, usually achieved during the night. } Passengers were invited to take the blanket and cushion with them at the end of the journey. } else { } In-seat wine and dine service and entertainment aboard the Spirit of Queensland. elements[i].disabled = true; Instead, you flew from Sydney to Brisbane for $22 and from there took the train to Cairns for $389? Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation. }); Besides, when compared to air travel, its a more sustainable method of transportation. The seven carriages in between include two RailBed sleeper cars with airline style seats that convert to lie-flat beds. The seats in Premium Economy are pretty spacious and recline just enough for you to feel relaxed. Pros Great staff, own cabin, nice lounge with a bar, nice restaurant, great views, great showers, nice to meet other people and share experiences, easier than flying, excellent food and plenty of it. } Even though the train gets up to speeds of 160km per hour, its innovative tilt design allows for a really smooth ride even around those sharp turns, youd barely know you were moving at all! 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. } But Ive never travelled on a train like this anywhere else in the world. We found out that while the menu was different in the Gallery Car, where Economy customers ate on their journey, everything served on the Spirit of Queensland Train was fresh with a paddock to plate focus. Where: Brisbane to Cairns, Queensland, Australia. Delicious meals were served making this a stress free way to travel. field.className += ' invalid'; submitButtonText: function() { Apparently, a lounge was part of the original design but with rising costs, the project needed to be scaled back and the lounge was scrapped. After folks settled in, a more social atmosphere prevailed, especially while watching staff make up the beds. Sign up for my weekly newsletter: travel tips, inspiration and a chuckle or two. if (result.has_redirect) { There are the non-RailBed carriages that might meet your needs.if (this.validEmail.test(email.value)) { Not to mention its also home to over 350 species of birds, possums, wallabies, sea turtles, dolphins, and the famous dingo! } You can easily plan your trip with the full, Australia Travel Tips: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Australia, What Does a Trip to Australia Cost? Your email address will not be published. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. }, if (this.isValid || !invalidFields) { 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 All Railbeds face the direction of travel and can not be reversed. Ive experienced the romance of rail on the Venice Simplon Orient Express and the Royal Scotsman, zipped through the Japanese countryside on a bullet train and crossed Canada on The Canadian. Enjoy 35 degrees of recline and a wide flat 18.5 inch screen with on-demand . Check out the Queensland Rail site for options. Further north were cattle stations, wetlands, sugar cane fields, and mango and banana plantations. Each seat had a standard power point, USB port, and earphone socket. this.isValid = false; if (name.indexOf('mimi_invalid') === -1) { , plus 15 handmade tunnels and 37 towering bridges and offers a truly unique rail adventure. This nature lovers paradise is definitely worth a stop along your Spirit of Queensland journey. } With the beds made up, the lights dimmed, and the curtains closed, it felt like one large upmarket moving hostel dorm. do the single railbed seats at the front and back of the carriage have a window? My bag weighted 20.1kg, 100 grams over weight. The menu brings a paddock to plate experience with meals prepared using the freshest Queensland produce. } What a cool way to slow travel and see more of a country. } else { Join the mailing list for updates, and access to the Resource Library. var fields = this.form.querySelectorAll('.mimi_field'); A staff member told me the beds cost $100,000 each. A Railbed, on the Spirit of Queensland, offers most of the benefits of a seat at the front of a plane with the bonus of scenic views, rather than clouds, through the large windows. Let us assist with your travel documents. } 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. Second was evening Day One, and given we were going through the heartland of Qld's beef country, I had the beef cheeks. Required fields are marked *. this.submit.value = this.submitButtonText(); I suspect Queensland Rail assigns single bookings in this way but I wouldnt count on it. _this = this; There are little things like bends and track conditions to take into consideration, and of course slowing to come into towns and stopping to let passengers on and off. On the Brisbane to Cairns route, the views were interesting and varied. The one in front pulls while the one at the rear pushes. } else { I was a little wary of the 2-1 configuration and sharing sleeping space with 18 other passengers. For a change of scenery, the Club Car offered an opportunity to mingle with other passengers over conversation and drinks. } } var elements = this.form.elements; } 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? No wonder people just fly, Is there power points for sleep apnea machines. Thanks for sharing Nicki. Our Railbeds are an Australian first designed to provide our customers with a smooth and relaxing ride. As a Stay22 affiliate if you book through this map I may receive a commission but dont worry its at no extra cost to you. I wasnt paid anything for the review, and clearly we had very different experiences. the only improvement seems to be more leg room and a bigger toilet/shower room. The route was dotted with coastal towns, each with its own character. See queenslandrailtravel.com.au - Traveller An unanticipated problem. One of Australias best travel blogs, Adventures All Around has a sense of fun and a love for life, with a little luxury along the way. } else { Looking for an airfare only? Categories. 5 Nights at 4-star Rydges Cairns Esplanade Resort with breakfast daily and welcome drink. - Packing Light Travel, 25 Tips on earning Aeroplan miles - Packing Light Travel, Sydney at its best: A self-guided tour of The Rocks, the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and points in between - Packing Light Travel. Fraser Island is known for being a unique nature destination with miles of beach, 100 freshwater lakes and over 30 walking tracks. 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. But the best thing is, that you can really take your time and make a few pit stops along the way, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, and Townsville before arriving at your final destination of Cairns. to Townsville. Please ask the onboard staff or check today's selections board in the Servery/Caffor the fresh selection on your day of travel. var email = document.getElementById('signup_email');
if (document.addEventListener) { The ones in the amenities kit are cheap and flimsy. 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. } The staff on the train will have the latest update for the day so just listen for their instructions if needed and come prepared. } But, theres also the train thing. }); Thanks, If you are in the Sleeping carriage can you still walk through to the Dining / Club carriage for coffee etc. onSubmitCallback: function(response) { A small train compared to that of other epic rail journeys such as The Ghan, it has two locomotives and just seven carriages. }, On the south-to-north service, the stop in Tully was long enough for passengers to stretch their legs on the platform. In my opinion the Rail Beds are a dismal failure. updateSubmitButtonText: function(text) { 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. } Lunch was a 2-course meal served at around midday. We were also thrilled to see that the Galley Car meals were served with Biopak biodegradable cutlery! Review of Queensland Rail. } I will definitely taking another trip in the future with qld rail thank you for a memorable trip away. I even spotted the odd kangaroo and wallaby, and lots of cockatoos. Well, one of my things. A significant amount of development time was invested in the selection of the Railbed mattress type and materials. Your feedback on the noise within the sleeping carriage has been relayed back to our Onboard Customer Service Team for monitoring. Dear TDK1962,Many thanks for your kind review. }); It's easy to walk around or freshen up with a shower. Hi Joanna, Youll need to ask Queensland rail about that one in the lead up to your trip as the advice on this one could change. instance.onSelect = function(){ _this.validate() }; 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.if (!Mimi) var Mimi = {}; But she does feel fast. }
But its pretty much just like being in business class on a plane where people may still be walking past and the little bit of light from the galley gets seen through the curtain. The entertainment schedule changes regularly, but you can check it ahead of your trip via the Spirit of Queensland entertainment guide. return name; 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! Sleeping to the rocking and rolling of the train and soothing sounds of rail travel added to the enjoyment. } There was a good selection of movies, tv shows, kids programmes or music channels available in the in-seat entertainment. Can you take the train from Brisbane to Cairns but get on and off overnight in various places en route? At busy times, it was possible to buy a drink and take it back to the comfort of your seat. The Spirit of Queensland is proud to offer an Australian first, the revolutionary RailBed. I also wonder why I cant find the call button to contact a member of staff, and then realise this isnt a plane and there isnt one, except for wheelchair customers. this.submit.value = text; Oksana had the vegetarian noddle salad option.var _this = this; Access Queensland Rail Travel on Instagram, Access Queensland Rail Travel on Facebook, Access Queensland Rail Travel on Trip Advisor. disableForm: function() { The sun is preparing to come up over the mountain range, theres mist everywhere, and kangaroos are hopping beside the train. 0:00 / 11:40 Spirit of Queensland Railbed Cairns to Brisbane 14,230 views Dec 18, 2018 81 Dislike Share Save Heino's Transport Films 164 subscribers A film of my journey from Cairns to. The Spirit of Queenslands RailBed experience was one of the most relaxing journeys Ive ever had. I considered the cost of overnight accommodation when evaluating the fare.