Goway’s Island Tracks trip combines two Australian highlights: Passengers get to ride the new Spirit of Queensland rail service from Cairns to Fraser Island with a stop at the Whitsunday Islands, the southern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. A short flight later, they spend three nights in Sydney.
The Spirit of Queensland first launched in October 2013, supplementing the existing Tilt Train and Sunlander service. The service runs twice a week in each direction between Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane, and tropical Cairns. Many of the state’s best sights can be seen along the way, including Fraser Island, Atherton Tableland and the Whitsunday Islands.
Guests will spend three days on Hamilton Island and go on Great Barrier Reef tours before continuing on to Fraser Island. A guided safari takes them to see the shipwrecks, forest areas and colored sands that have made Fraser Island famous.
On board the train, passengers can opt for premium economy seating or one of Queensland Rail's new Railbeds. Premium economy features personal entertainment and a 30-degree seat recline. A Railbed seat includes in-seat service of all main meals, as well as bed linen and a personal amenity pack.
Passengers disembark in Hervey Bay for their flight to Sydney, where an included ferry ticket gives them the best views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, while a guided tour of The Rocks offers a glimpse of Australia’s colonial past. An afternoon Sydney tour takes in the city's more modern sights, including the Botanical Gardens and Bondi Beach.
Island Tracks departs each Wednesday from Cairns. It includes nine nights' accommodation, travel aboard the Spirit of Queensland, 4WD guided safari on Fraser Island, Sydney Rocks Walking Tour, Sydney City Tour, Sydney Harbour Cruise and Taronga Zoo entry, transfers and some meals.
For more information, go to Goway.com.