2004 Custom-Designed Rail Tours
Australia and the New Ghan: Rail Down Under the Southern Cross
April 18-May 11
Chug "Down Under" with IRT as we go for the third time to Australia with some exciting new additions and a sample of some old favoritesalways against the backdrop of Australia's magnificent scenery. Travel north on The Ghan up to Darwin on this entirely new railroad, as one of the first American groups to be apart of this historic occasion! Steam through the giant fern forest near Melbourne on the Puffing Billy; cut through the bluffs outside Sydney on the Zig Zag Railway; blast out of Sydney's fabulously busy rail station on the Indian Pacific. Need more temptation? A tantalizing tour of Tasmania, a visit to the natural wonders Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef and an excursion to Kakado National Park, designated a World Heritage Site by UNSECO. And much more! The tour will be lead by New Zealand native Allan Boyer. Optional extensions feature the Sunlander and the Indian Pacific from Perth to Sydney.
Switzerland's Scenic Routes
May 26-June 10
Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Golden Pass Panoramic-you've read about these wonderful scenic trains for years, and now is your chance to experience them all in one deluxe tour! Travel with popular IRT guide Werner Schorn as you take in Switzerland's scenic routes and beautiful cities-Zürich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt and Chur-next spring. In addition to some of the world's most famous trains, enjoy: an excursion to Brienz by steam train, guided visit to the Swiss Transport Museum, dinner while traveling on a Zürich tram, a mountain railway ride to Jungfraujoch (the highest rail station in Europe) and utter indulgence aboard the Chocolate Train. The tour is split into two weeks: May 26-June 3 & June 3-10. Choose one or both!
Scandinavia: Fjordland Fantasy
July 7-16; Optional extension: July 16-21
Our tour of Scandinavia includes the very best of trams, museums, local trains and long-distance/scenic trains-plus two cruises! We call this trip the "Fjordland Fantasy" for a reason. Come find out why! Two of the world's top trains-the Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway-will amaze you. The Rauma line, called by some the most scenic trip in Europe, is scheduled to be visited by IRT travelers riding behind steam! Plus: an overnight ferry Copenhagen-Oslo. Choose the extension for an in-depth look at Norway, including a lake steamer up the coast and a close-up view of the world-famous Songefjord. Led by popular tour leader Gunnar Holmqvist.
A Deluxe Rail Journey Across Southern Africa
August 28-September 14
Experience the beauty and grandeur of three of the top-rated rail experiences in the world: the Blue Train, Rovos Rail and the Union Limited. Travel the Garden Route from Capetown behind a variety of steam locomotives on the Union Limited; luxuriate in your spacious accommodations on Rovos Rail and enjoy gourmet meals complemented by the best South African wines on the Blue Train. Other highlights include: five-star deluxe hotels, Victoria Falls, the Cape of Good Hope, Kruger Park and a Zambezi River cruise. This is one of our most talked-about trips, so don't miss out! The tour will be led by Geoff Cooke, rail tour leader par excellence who has led thousands on rail tours in Africa. Optional three-night extension to exclusive, 5-star private game reserve.
Pullman Glory Years: Time Travel on the Dover Harbor
September 15-20
We are chartering a private car in the U.S. for this special tour. Relive the classic Pullman experience while exploring the Pullman company's history, along with other aspects of passenger railroading in its golden age. Leading this unique tour will be Karl Zimmermann, noted rail author, photographer, travel writer and lecturer. The route will be Washington, D.C.New York CityChicagoWashington. The tour's centerpiece is Dover Harbor, a beautifully restored and authentically appointed sleeper-buffet lounge from the "heavyweight" or "standard" era that predates streamliners. Most nights will be spent on board our private car or in one of Amtrak's deluxe bedrooms; other nights are spent in hotels in Washington and New York. Off-train highlights include private tours of Washington's Union Station and New York's Grand Central Terminal and an all-day tour in Chicago focusing on George M. Pullman and his era. Several meals at wonderful, local restaurants and on board the train. There is limited space on this special excursion, so don't wait!
Silk Road by Private Train
October 1-20
What better way to experience this vast continent? This grand journey travels from Beijing to Moscow via the famous Silk Road. Using two great private trains, the China Orient Express and Trans-Siberian Express, we will explore the route of Marco Polo along this 6,250-mile adventure. Intriguing off-train stops include the Great Wall of China, The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, the Terracotta Army in the ancient capital of Xi'An, the Gobi Desert, Urumchi, Almaty (former capital of Kazakstan), Tashkent (capital of Uzbekistan), Samarkand, Bukhara, Kara Kum desert, Khiva, Volgograd and Moscow. Limited number of deluxe ensuite compartments. We are proud to offer this journey in partnership with GW Travel of England, the largest operator of private trains in the region.
Rail/Small Ship Cruises
The Jingpeng China Orient Express
February 26-March 7; October 24-November 5
Journey on the China Orient Express from Beijing to the Ji-Tong line for five days, including three days on the Jingpeng Pass. Plus a trip on the narrow-gauge system at Weihe and four steam-worked branch lines from Tiefa. Visit the Great Wall of China; choose the Beijing extension and see the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. This all-steam tour covers 1,800 miles and will offer many stops for railfan photographers! Price starts at $3,995 per person, double occupancy. Also offered in conjunction with GW Travel of England. Some say China steam only has a few years left. Don't miss your chance! Request a video for more detail.
American Orient Express Antebellum South & Jazz Program
March 15-22
Travel aboard America's premiere luxury train, the American Orient Express, through the Old South-from New Orleans to Washington, D.C. on this special jazz themed departure. Enjoy live jazz entertainment nightly on board the train, plus special lectures and stops that highlight the history of jazz music. The AOE is made up of wonderfully restored cars from the Streamliner Era of the '40s and '50s. Two dining cars offer gourmet meals in a beautiful setting while the round-end observation car and the dome car allow unrestrained views of the wondrous Southern scenery. IRT members enjoy a $500 per person discount!
Trans-Canadian Steam Express
May 10-31
Be the first in nearly 50 years to enjoy this historical experience of a steam train journey over the Canadian Pacific Railway. Travel in a style befitting monarchs and world leaders of the 20th century aboard the Royal Canadian Pacific, North America's most exclusive and authentic luxury train: 11 cars for just 32 guests. Steam-hauled by the Canadian Pacific Hudson Type 4-6-4 number 2816 Empress, recently restored to its original grandeur. Journey from Vancouver through the stunning scenery of the snow-capped Canadian Rockies, across the golden Prairies to the dramatic Canadian Shield, the Great Lakes, Toronto, Niagara Falls and Montreal. Ask about shorter steam trips before and after.
Clipper Cruise's Expedition to the Celtic Isles
June 25-July 3
This voyage to the land of the Celts is a wonderful immersion in the myth and mystique of the cities, seaside villages, and medieval castles that dot the perimeter of the Irish Sea. Embark the Clipper Adventurer in Greenock, Scotland, and set sail for remote islands and quaint villages that are largely bypassed by the typical tourist. On the mystical Isle of Iona in the Hebrides, encounter what the Scots consider the "Cradle of Christianity;" view the amazing geological formations known as Giant's Causeway in Portrush; touch the history and folklore of the Celts and Vikings in the picturesque village of Castletown on the Isle of Man; and tour Caernarfon Castle-hereditary site of the investiture of the Prince of Wales-in northern Wales. As you glide along verdant coasts, savor some of the most pristine scenery in the world, using the Clipper Adventurer's fleet of sturdy Zodiac landing craft for up-close exploration.
American West Alaska Cruise on the Empress of the North
July 25-August 2
Round trip from Sitka, this 8-night invigorating itinerary includes Alaska's major southwest ports-Petersburg, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Cruise through Glacier Bay, Misty Fords, Tracy Arm, Peril Straight and Wrangell Narrows. Experience spectacular scenery and stimulating landscapes aboard the Empress of the North, a faithfully re-created 19th century sternwheeler. Be one of the first passengers to experience the elegance and luxury of this brand-new, small ship cruiseship. The Empress of the North combines the glamourous features of a stately boat of the1800s with the state-of-the-art technology and the creature comforts demanded by today's discerning traveler. IRT members get 40% off brochure price!
Trans-Siberian BAM Route
September 12-25
We have now sponsored two successful tours across Russia by private train on The Trans-Siberian Railway. Now we are offering a trip on the same great train, but a varied route: the mysterious BAM route. This 1,947-mile Trans-Siberian Railway runs 400 to 600 miles north of the familiar line, through pristine taiga, mountain tundra, wide river valleys. Venture where few Westerners have gone aboard our private train! The train offers all the services of a first-class establishment-everything from elegant meals in the restaurant cars to first-class sleeping cars, each with nine twin compartments, all with two lower berth beds that convert to couch seating for daytime use. Also available: luxury suites with private bathroom facilities. The tour begins in Vladivostok and ends in Moscow, including a stop in St. Petersburg. Includes visits to remote towns such as Tynda (for a visit to the BAM Museum), Severobaikalsk and Komsomolsk. Operated by GW Travel in England.
American Orient Express' Pacific Coast Explorer Culinary Tour
October 10-17
In addition to the luxury and excellent service on all American Orient Express tours, this special departure features a culinary theme. Passengers will visit local markets, wineries, distilleries and gourmet restaurants along the Pacific Coast Explorer itinerary-Seattle, Portland, Napa Valley, San Francisco, Paso Robles and Los Angeles. Our themed rail journey will also feature a special cooking class! Other highlights include a visit to the Hearst Castle, Muir Woods and views of stunning Mount St. Helens and Mount Ranier. This program has been featured on the Food Network's "Dining by Rail." Tour will be hosted by rail author/photographer Karl Zimmermann.
Churchill Northern Adventure: Polar Bears & Northern Lights
November 4-11
Come along for an adventure in Manitoba's northern sub arctic region-where the polar bears play by day and the Northern Lights dance across the sky at night! During clear nights, the skies above Churchill offer the highest intensity of the multicolored aurora borealis activity in the Northern Hemisphere. Called the world's polar bear capital, Churchill is located on the rugged shores of Hudson Bay where a Canadian legend, the Hudson's Bay Company, began their domination of the country's fur trade centuries ago. Learn about this history and delve into the fascinating culture of the native Inuit people. Experience a dog sled journey. Visit with the polar bears and other wildlife aboard a Tundra Buggy. Hop aboard VIA Rail's Hudson Bay and join us for an adventurous holiday in Manitoba's North!
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Various dates available, March-November
A private compartment of gleaming wood, marquetry and antique polished brass, soft, fluffy towels and crisp linen will be your home for a European journey of elegance. Service is among the best in the world: You will be attended by your own personal steward. Dinners are unforgettable in each of three vintage dining cars, one with Lalique crystal panels, and meals prepared by French chefs. Itineraries include London-Venice, Venice-Rome and the once-a-year epic journey Paris to Istanbul. Another choice: Istanbul-Venice via Bucharest, Budapest and Vienna. New for 2004: Venice-Vienna-Prague, with a two-night stay in Prague, followed by Prague-Paris-London. All include fascinating off-train tours in cities along the way. Delicious meals from breakfasts to teas, luncheons, dinners and special events included.
Northern Belle Grand Tour: England, Scotland and Wales
June 4, July 2, August 6, September 3, October 1
Take an exclusive grand tour of Great Britain aboard the Orient-Express' Northern Belle. From the comfort of this train marvel at the beauty of the land-the patchwork green fields of England and the heather-clad hills of Scotland. Visit the head of a Scottish clan, see the Royal Yacht Britannia and join a farmer training his sheepdog. These privately arranged visits allow you to see the country's heritage first hand and understand just what it is that makes Britain great. The Northern Belle is designed to guarantee your every comfort, while at the same time imparting an elegant sense of style and history. Superb service and cuisine are enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort where you can relax in cozy armchairs beside large picture windows. Sumptuous food is freshly prepared by expert chefs and served among settings of fine linen and sparkling crystal. The tour ends with a special run from Bath to London behind the world-famous steam locomotive, The Flying Scotsman.
Al Andalus Express
Various dates available, March-November
Enjoy a six-day journey through the Andalusia region of Spain, birthplace of flamenco and tapas. Travel round-trip from Seville on board this train, a 12-car deluxe hotel on wheels. Sample the best and most traditional Spanish dishes and wines, as prepared on board and in the best restaurants along the way. Admire the Spanish countryside-landscapes of olive trees and sunflowers, marvelous white villages and magnificent cathedrals-while playing cards or reading in the comfortable lounge areas. Stop for interesting sightseeing daily.
El Transcantábrico
Various dates available, May-October
Poking along 800 miles of incredible scenery at 40 mph across the northern coast of Spain is El Transcantábrico. This meter-gauge train skirts the coast line, meanders through mountains, follows the course of rivers and runs along deep canyons. It's a route only the narrow-gauge Transcantábrico can follow. All compartments on board are suites with private, ensuite facilities, shower, double bed, minibar, closet and desk. Operating since 1983, the Transcantábrico is fully air-conditioned and carries a maximum of 50 passengers. The routine includes breakfast daily on board, enjoying the train as it ambles across the countryside, being met at a number of stations by the train's motorcoach for short trips to interesting towns and sites not reachable by train, and dining at great, hidden restaurants to enjoy regional cuisine. All nights are taken on sidings for especially quiet sleep.
Royal Canadian Pacific Rockies Experience
Various dates available, June-October
Savor the unparalleled beauty of western Canada coupled with the glamour of the wonderfully restored Royal Canadian Pacific. This luxurious train, which has played host to such dignitaries as Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth, is limited to 32 pampered passengers. Enjoy glorious meals, impeccable service and comfort as you roll through the country's pristine landscape. Travel through the Spiral Tunnels; visit Lake Louise, Fort Steele Heritage Town, Canadian Museum of Rail Travel and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. This tour begins and ends with overnights in Calgary's famous Palliser Hotel. Ask about specialty tours: fly-fishing, culinary and golf themes.
Rocky Mountaineer & VIA Rail
Journeys run April - October; December & January
There are so many ways to experience Canada, and we can arrange any of them! Enjoy a fine Trans-Canada adventure, Toronto-Vancouver on VIA Rail's Canadian. Or, experience the Canadian Rockies aboard a Rocky Mountaineer all-daylight tour, spending days on the train and nights in hotels. Better still, combine the two! Either way, it will be a fantastic trip. Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service on the RMR and take in the beautiful scenery from the dome car; this service also allows access to the open-air observation platform-one of the best parts of the train. Dining is also an experience, with an excellent staff and delicious meals; GoldLeaf passengers enjoy their meals in the elegant restaurant cars. There are so many itinerary choices, it's easy to find the perfect trip to fit your schedule or budget-from two days (Vancouver-Banff/Calgary) to 12 days. Most tours begin or end in Vancouver. The Rocky Mountaineer can be combined with any VIA Rail train, including the Canadian for transcontinental travel from eastern Canada. Let us put a Canadian rail vacation together for you!
Royal Scotsman
Various dates available, April-October
This luxurious train will allow you to drift back to the romantic age of railway travel as you explore the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. Journey into the heart of Scottish history, where you'll enjoy exquisite hospitality in castles, distilleries and great country houses. The exclusive train accommodates a maximum of 36 guests in deluxe state cabins all with private facilities. The train's restaurant is considered on of the finest in Britain and service on board is equivalent of a five-star hotel.
Eastern & Oriental Express
Various dates available, January-December
The magic of the Orient unfolds as you weave through the sights of South East Asia. Travel from the elegance of Singapore to the vibrant city of Bangkok via Kuala Lumpur-passing through jungle terrain, ancient temples, winding rivers and rice paddies. A subtle balance of Eastern culture and cuisine and Western comforts means that you can enjoy the best of everything-elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service- on an adventure through the heart of Asia for a truly unique travel experience.
Sierra Madre Express Copper Canyon Tour
Various dates in Jan., Feb., May, Sept., Nov. & Dec.
Experience Mexico in a completely unique way-by private train. Board the U.S.-owned and operated Sierra Madre Express to Mexico's Copper Canyon (four times larger than the Grand Canyon). Round trip from Tucson, travel to Mexico's center along the Pacific side through lands mostly unseen by regular tourists. Spend time in Divisadero at the Posada Mirador, perched on the edge of the expansive canyon and offering breathtaking views. Meet the Tarahumara Indians, among the most isolated indigenous people in North America. Then relax on the train's open-air observation deck surrounded by Mexico's unusual flora and fauna to remote Cerocahui. This is an adventure you won't soon forget. Also offered: a festive New Year's Eve trip including a cruise on the Bay of Topolobampo and the colonial city of El Fuerte (December 27-January 3, 2004).
Montana Rockies Rail Tours
Various dates, June-September
Join us in Montana for one of many fantastic journeys. An array of itineraries include some of the best of what Montana has to offer-from crystal blue lakes to lush mountain ranges and abundant wildlife-while traveling aboard the splendid Montana Daylight. Three classes of service appeal to everyone's budget. Discovery and Big Sky passengers enjoy excellent views and comfortable seating on the train and overnights in local hotels. Montana Gold passengers are treated to the ultimate rail experience: delicious meals, personal staff, observation platform and dome car and overnights in luxurious private sleepers. Whichever service you choose, your Montana Rockies vacation will be an adventure the whole family will love.
Please call us with questions, bookings:
800-478-4881
Outside of the U.S.: 502-454-0277
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