} I hope you get to enjoy the train and sleep easily. Thats great that youve let them know so they can take care of you. this.form.className = this.setFormClassName(); The Staff on the Queenslander are EXCELLENT! I was a little wary of the 2-1 configuration and sharing sleeping space with 18 other passengers. } A small train compared to that of other epic rail journeys such as. 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. Hi Anna, towels are provided so you dont need to worry about that one. Sleeping to the rocking and rolling of the train and soothing sounds of rail travel added to the enjoyment. this.form.addEventListener('submit', function(e){ }); return name.replace(/\s?mimi_invalid/, ''); 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. Unlike the Sunlander where meals are all freshly prepared in the kitchen, here theyre more airline food style. 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. Each one can recline to thirty degrees. } 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. } else { fields[i].style['display'] = 'none'; We experienced USB ports that didnt work, and ear-hone jacks that didnt work. There was an extra seat that folded down under the TV. this.isValid = false; _this.onFormSubmit(e); 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 train attains a top speed of 160 kph, usually achieved during the night. The pod-like RailBeds provided a considerable amount of privacy, similar to business class pods on an aircraft. Not much. var _this = this; var fields = this.form.querySelectorAll('.mimi_field.required');
The lack of privacy was unpleasant and with the exception of one shower room, the bathroom facilities were very cramped with wet floors. BC Reg. Collapsible wheelchairs can be stowed at the end of the carriage. Apparently the galley crew don`t understand how to heat food. var elements = this.form.elements; I highly recommend it. var dropdown = dropdowns[i]; Copyright 2022 Adventures All Around |, London to Paris in Eurostar e320 business class style, Travel to Machu Picchu in style on Belmonds Hiram Bingham train, Read: 20 incredible Queensland holiday homes and Airbnbs, Read: Farm stay fun in Guyra, New Englands highest town. I took a Queensland Rail train form Brisbane to Maryborough and it was very affordable. I knew they were not a budget airline as they at least have decent caring staff. There's a locomotive at each end. The bed and bedding were very comfortable. If your travel plans involve Australia, you might be interested in these other posts: Very interesting. Club Car - The licensed Club Car allowing guests to purchase light refreshments, confectionery and beverages throughout the journey. By day, the RailBeds are spacious seats capable of reclining up to 35 degrees. On 10 September 2021, I finally boarded this train once more and experienced Railbed Sleeper from Cairns to Brisbane. } else {emailValidation: function() { The first of her kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the Spirit of Queensland was brought in to replace The Sunlander, cutting the Brisbane to Cairns route down from 31 hours to a 25 hour journey. } 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.There is no dining car. My wife and I have just returned from a trip Brisbane to Cairns and returned Proserpine to Brisbane. We are Oksana & Max, eco-conscious travelers on a mission to inspire responsible travel practices around the world. The Spirit of Queensland train journey is a 1681 kilometre route taking about 24-25 hours from Brisbane to Cairns. if (document.addEventListener) { I travelled from Roma St to Ayr and return on the Spirit of Queensland 'Rail Bed'. The staff certainly have not changed.
for (var i = 0; i < inputs.length; ++i) { Ride the historic railway to the hinterland or take a tour out to the Great Barrier Reef. When: All year round. Since 2015, we have been traveling full-time with a mission to inspire others to follow in our footsteps. this.fieldAndListValidation(); } , plus 15 handmade tunnels and 37 towering bridges and offers a truly unique rail adventure.
textValidation: function(input) { this.isValid = false; The fold-down seat had a pocket for reading material and assorted items. The spinach & feta quick was definitely our favourite! this.removeTextFieldError(input); But even then it felt like such an old-fashioned thing to do. } else { If there is one drawback with this type of sleeper it is lack of privacy. 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. 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. It arrives at 4:30 pm. The Spirit of Queenslands RailBed experience was one of the most relaxing journeys Ive ever had. this.htmlEmbedDropdownValidation(field); 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. Not unlike first class in a plane but more spacious. 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. First meal was around mid-day on Day One, quite a serviceable chicken noodle dish with a sticky-date pudding for dessert. 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. We had tickets from Roma St to Cairns. The one in front pulls while the one at the rear pushes. If you enjoy train travel, it might be for you. However, with daylight, it was more interesting to enjoy the constantly changing coastal Queensland landscape. }, You feel connected to the rails, and as the train tilts, so do you. before arriving at your final destination of Cairns. Cost: A$0 (2 Passengers) Not Available. Dear TDK1962,Many thanks for your kind review. Your email address will not be published. for (var j = 0; j < inputs.length; ++j) { Long-distance rail travel in Victoria: https://youtu.be/_OX0sTjdBaUQantas QF2 B787 Business Class Darwin to Sydney - a domestic international flight! A FREE travel quote! The Spirit of Queensland. } Another is that its an opportunity to take in the scenery. In this video I have covered every single aspect of this train, if you have any questions about Spirit of Queensland, I think you should be able to find out the answer after watching the whole video. Our toolkit is a great place to get started. } else { They drive the train and supply power to the carriages. return text; 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! The couple behind me also suffered the same screaming about being overweight. field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); Full Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Pontoon Experience . 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. , or one of the many wildlife and nature experiences just outside of the city. this.submit.value = this.submit.getAttribute('data-submitting-text'); if (this.isValid) { The Spirit of Queensland service operates from Brisbane to Cairns, a distance of 1,681 kilometres (1,045 miles). This nature lovers paradise is definitely worth a stop along your Spirit of Queensland journey. Kuranda Scenic Railway winds through a tropical rainforest, past rugged mountains, waterfalls tumbling and deep ravines of the Barron Gorge. The RailBed is a spacious and comfortable seat by day that includes a state-of-the-art personal entertainment system and 240v powerpoint. A heavy label was attached and I was then told that I could have taken it on board myself. The USB ports are useless for charging so I plug mine into the power point beside the bed. Welcome to Packing Light Travel. Disembark here to enjoy the crystal clear blue waters on the shores of the, Hop off the Spirit of Queensland train and. The Spirit of Queensland is proud to offer an Australian first, the revolutionary RailBed. Your entertainment system might not work or the content could be uninspiring. The overhead compartment contained a towel, blanket, and inflatable neck cushion. I did this trip recently and I loved it to bits, except for one thing and I'll get to that. this.isValid = false; var invalidFields = document.querySelectorAll('.invalid'), The Spirit of Queensland is proud to offer an Australian first, the revolutionary RailBed. With the beds made up, the lights dimmed, and the curtains closed, it felt like one large upmarket moving hostel dorm. Great train journey from Brisbane to Cairns. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Disclaimer: Our trip on the Spirit of Queensland train was provided courtesy of Queensland Rail Travel, but as always all opinions expressed in this article are our own. thanks. Heres a quick look at the other trains and their destinations. } },
Other points programs fund other travels. The journey takes roughly 25 hours. }, Two of them, dinner and lunch, included a complimentary soft drink, juice, water, beer, or wine. } var input = this; The Spirit of Queensland fleet will provide guests with a fast, value for money modern rail experience. No access to the Club Car is available from the RailBeds for wheelchair customers. window.attachEvent('onload', function() { But, theres also the train thing. Premium Economy from $221, Railbed from $389. It's easy to walk around or freshen up with a shower. I will definitely taking another trip in the future with qld rail thank you for a memorable trip away. Even the 2nd Class Sleepers in Thai railways have curtains. Website: www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au. For the three-course evening meal, the appetizer was a Caprese salad of Mozzarella pearls, tomatoes, and sweet basil seasoned with salt and olive oil.validate: function() { 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. The Spirit of Queensland is a long distance passenger rail service running along the North Coast between Brisbane and Cairns. for (var prop in source) { input.className = 'required'; more. 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. There are stops for passengers to board and disembark. Not to mention its also home to over 350 species of birds, possums, wallabies, sea turtles, dolphins, and the famous dingo! There are the non-RailBed carriages that might meet your needs. and were really impressed by its quality. document.body.appendChild(script); }, I have used the rail beds twice in about 5 years, Bris. For us, trains offer the best alternative to flying. Hi splumpf,Thank you so much for your wonderful review on our Spirit of Queensland train service. Hi Joan thats right there in the story complete with a picture! Hi Amanda, could you tell me what items are included in amenities bag on Spirit of Queensland please. No wonder people just fly, Is there power points for sleep apnea machines. },
See queenslandrailtravel.com.au - Traveller An unanticipated problem. All services have aServery orCafonboardfor customers to purchasemeals and refreshments. if (format === 'json') action += '.json'; I am sure the passengers at the other end of the platform were all now awake. Further north were cattle stations, wetlands, sugar cane fields, and mango and banana plantations. There was a good selection of movies, tv shows, kids programmes or music channels available in the in-seat entertainment. this.formSubmitting(); If you are thinking of going from Brisbane to Cairns, fly there! In March 2019, my ticket cost AUD 389.25 / USD 268.54 / CAD 371.38, covered by 37,138 Scotia Rewards. Next. if (type === 'text_field') { At the start of 2015, it replaced the diesel-hauled train The Sunlander . running along the North Coast between Brisbane and Cairns. } else { Instead, you flew from Sydney to Brisbane for $22 and from there took the train to Cairns for $389? is definitely worth a stop along your Spirit of Queensland journey. this.submitForm(); #1543989; CST #2016613-20. Water Fountains - Drinking fountains are located at the end of all passenger carriages. this.updateFormAfterValidation(); var action = this.form.action; 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. isnt the only one departing from Queensland there are a number of other routes taking you to the far-flung corners of the state! this.validEmail = /.+@.+\..+/ All thoughts and opinions remain her own. Spirit of Queensland Rail Service Townsville to Brisbane Sept 2015 Friendly and Welcoming Cabin Crew. Although the Railbeds are located in a dedicated section that is not a thoroughfare for other non-Railbed customers, as you can understand things such as train movement and occasional noise are not always within our control. Pack shower shoes (e.g., thongs/flip flops), and comfortable sleepwear. We are Oksana & Max, a Canadian couple with a passion for sustainable travel. Fraser Island is known for being a unique nature destination with miles of beach, 100 freshwater lakes and over 30 walking tracks. Lie Flat With RailBed The first two passenger carriages on Spirit of Queensland are dedicated to RailBed. Its also a good idea to pack your own entertainment. This trip was not! if (document.addEventListener) { })(this); We spent many years living and traveling around Australia exploring the country in-depth! For information on the site, please see the About page. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. } } The route was dotted with coastal towns, each with its own character. But it actually looks really fun and glamourous! var inputs = field.getElementsByTagName('input'); The staff on the train will have the latest update for the day so just listen for their instructions if needed and come prepared. The menu brings a paddock to plate experience with meals prepared using the freshest Queensland produce. }, The drawstring bag included shampoo, conditioner, face mist, lip balm, body lotion, face cloth, eye mask, earplugs, and headphones. Oksana had the vegetarian noddle salad option. The Spirit of Queensland is proud to offer an Australian first, the revolutionary RailBed. I imagine so, but presumably it will cost more and will require paying for each segment. for (var i = 0; i < inputs.length; ++i) { var input = inputs[i]; if (input.name.indexOf('signup') >= 0) { It was so much better than what we had ever gotten on a plane. Second was evening Day One, and given we were going through the heartland of Qld's beef country, I had the beef cheeks. The bathroom was kept impeccably clean throughout the trip. Tasmania West Coast Wilderness Railway Strahan - Queenstown Complete Review: https://youtu.be/yPo_fWHSCWMTranswa Australind Perth to Bunbury: https://youtu.be/m6GLBrtwH4gTravelling on the Old Ghan Railway - Pichi Richi Afghan Express Port Augusta to Quorn return https://youtu.be/nuFYBlh9KWMThe Inlander Townsville to Mount Isa: https://youtu.be/l97k6Rk8mR8Fastest Train in Australia - Tilt Train Business Class Brisbane to Rockhampton: https://youtu.be/n3ZDMh1JLDMTranswa Prospector Train Perth to Kalgoorlie - The Fastest Service in Australia: https://youtu.be/FhFQfeUvKaIThe Westlander Train Toowoomba to Queensland: https://youtu.be/V39L8pP5dZgRiding on Locomotive 3801, a legend of steam: https://youtu.be/wvuymG4Er90The Overland train Red Premium class from Melbourne to Adelaide: https://youtu.be/QsGZZdbAlcQFirst Class Spirit of the Outback train from Brisbane to Longreach: https://youtu.be/Lb4snTmxreUPremium Economy Class Spirit of Queensland from Townsville to Cairns: https://youtu.be/ewj5HyNUxw0NSW XPT First class sleeper from Sydney to Melbourne: https://youtu.be/WrXUf0Q7pUMNSW XPT Economy class from Canberra to Melbourne via Yass: https://youtu.be/7j-K7NAxvNoCanberra to Melbourne by trains only, Xplorer + XPT: https://youtu.be/Ck-TWprVodIFirst Class V/Line N class from Melbourne to Wodonga: https://youtu.be/2jxurlLMEYoFirst Class NSW Xplorer train from Sydney to Canberra: https://youtu.be/QmABDqeX9ngTrainspotting at Wondabyne station: https://youtu.be/KJX2AIa4PIYJoin my channel membership to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLxsJJL11SLXwh4C8I3sWQ/joinFollow my Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roryding.travels/New Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/rorydingtravels#QueenslandRail #train #SpiritofQueensland A call button is available to contact the onboard staff for assistance Or possibly first class, depending on who youre flying with. All seats come with a 240 volt AC power outlet so depending on your machine you should be just fine, but do let them know when you book your ticket. elements[i].disabled = true; takes you from bustling Brisbane to some of Australia and Queenslands most popular destinations, including the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Capricorn Coast, Bundaberg, and Fraser Coast. A few downloaded Netflix movies and Spotify playlists, or favourite podcasts or books might come in handy. field.className = field.className.replace(/ invalid/g, ''); I have just returned from my first trip on the spirit of Queensland Brisbane to Cairns. Menu Stay Updated: Onboard Dining and Menus A selection of hot cooked dishes, ranging from traditional roasts, pastas, beef, chicken, vegetarian and gluten free meals as well as fresh salads, sandwiches and wraps are available from our onboard kitchen. onSubmitSuccess: function(result) { inputs[j].onchange = function(){ _this.validate() }; RailBed customers aboard Spirit of Queensland receive inclusive meals served directly to their seat.