qld rail travel brisbane to cairns

The Spirit of Queensland

The Spirit of Queensland is a modern tilt train that runs the length of the Queensland coast between Brisbane and Cairns. The train makes the 1681km journey five times per week. The Spirit of Queensland  has a maximum speed of 160km/h and the entire trip takes 24 hours.

The main stops en route between Brisbane and Cairns are Maryborough (where you can get a connecting bus to Hervey Bay), Bundaberg, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay, Proserpine (where you can get a connecting bus to Airlie Beach) and Townsville.

You can get connecting bus, coach and rail transfers at the following stations:

• Brisbane : local bus and rail services including trains to the Gold Coast, Trainlink NSW trains to Sydney (the Discovery Pass rail pass is valid on these trains) plus the Spirit of the Outback train to Longreach and the Westlander train to Charleville (the Queensland Explorer Pass is valid on the Spirit of the Outback and the Westlander )
• Nambour : local buses to Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast (rail passes not valid on these buses)
• Cooroy : local buses to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast (rail passes not valid on these buses)
• Maryborough West : buses to Hervey Bay (rail passes are valid on this bus)
• Rockhampton : buses to Yeppoon (rail passes not valid on this bus) and ferries from Yeppoon to Great Keppel Island. Also transfer to the Spirit of the Outback train to Longreach (the  Queensland Explorer Pass  is valid on the  Spirit of the Outback )
• Proserpine : buses to Airlie Beach (rail passes are valid on this bus)
• Townsville : ferries to Magnetic Island and the Inlander train to Mount Isa (the  Queensland Explorer Pass  is valid on the Inlander )
• Tully : Greyhound coaches to Mission Beach
• Cairns : the Kuranda Scenic Railway to Kuranda (rail passes not valid on this train) and buses to Port Douglas

The Spirit of Queensland features:

• licensed club car (open 24 hours with alcohol served 10am–midnight)
• drinking fountains
• showers and toilets at the end of each carriage
• screens with on demand entertainment (8.9 inches in premium economy and 18.5 inches in RailBed seats)

Premium economy seats

If you’re travelling with either the Queensland Coastal Pass or the Queensland Explorer Pass rail pass then you are able to sit in the Premium Economy seats on the Spirit of Queensland. Premium Economy features comfortable leather seats with generous leg room and also comes equipped with an on demand entertainment system with an 8.9 inch screen mounted on the rear of the seat in front of you.

Premium economy seats have a 42 inch pitch, which gives you plenty of legroom. In comparison, economy class seats on most airlines only have a seat pitch of 31–32 inches.

RailBed sleeper seats

There are also two RailBed sleeper cars with airline business class-style seats that convert into lie-flat beds. These are not available to rail pass holders , although it is possible to pay to upgrade to this service. The RailBed seat comes with an 18.5 inch screen with on-demand entertainment and passengers in RailBed seats have all-inclusive meals served at their seat.

RailBed seats give you more comfort than business class on many airlines and feature massive 18.5 inch seats. There’s enough legroom  to allow for your travel companion to sit facing you when they are not in their own seat.

RailBed seats convert into a proper lie-flat bed at the push of a button. You won’t believe you could sleep so well on board a train.

Rail passes

You can use the Queensland Coastal Pass and the Queensland Explorer Pass to travel on the Spirit of Queensland .

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The new Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the romance of long distance rail travel. 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.

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Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of Queensland: Is the RailBed sleeper worth it?

by Anne Betts | Nov 7, 2019 | Australia | 8 comments

“So let me get this straight. You could have flown business class on points, on a direct flight from Sydney to Cairns for $25 in taxes and fees. Instead, you flew from Sydney to Brisbane for $22 and from there took the train to Cairns for $389?

In other words, you traded a three-dollar business class flight to spend 24-hours on a train? For $389?”

My young friend shook her head in disbelief at the absurdity of my travel choices.

The points thing

Miles and points are my thing. Well, one of my things. When travelling in Australia, I use British Airways Avios points to fly on Qantas, one of British Airways’ oneworld airline partners. Other points programs fund other travels. In fact, I used Scotiabank’s Scotia Rewards to cover the cost of the Spirit of Queensland fare from Brisbane to Cairns.

But, there’s also the train thing. For anyone who loves train travel, Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland is a fabulous choice. The RailBed class is a top-notch travel experience at an affordable price.

Spirit of Queensland

The Spirit of Queensland service operates from Brisbane to Cairns, a distance of 1,681 kilometres (1,045 miles). A small train compared to that of other epic rail journeys such as The Ghan , it has two locomotives and just seven carriages.

There’s a locomotive at each end. The one in front pulls while the one at the rear pushes. They drive the train and supply power to the carriages.

The seven carriages in between include two RailBed sleeper cars with airline style seats that convert to lie-flat beds.

The three premium economy cars have adjustable leather lounger seats in a 2 – 2 configuration. Each one can recline to thirty degrees.

There’s also a Galley / Club Car, and a carriage for luggage and crew.

The train attains a top speed of 160 kph, usually achieved during the night. However, the average speed is more like 80 kph. The journey takes roughly 25 hours.

There are stops for passengers to board and disembark. On the south-to-north service, the stop in Tully was long enough for passengers to stretch their legs on the platform.

RailBed class

What attracted me to the Spirit of Queensland was the RailBed class.

It was more expensive than flying but an attractive option, all things considered. 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. Besides, when compared to air travel, it’s a more sustainable method of transportation.

Another is that it’s an opportunity to take in the scenery. On the Brisbane to Cairns route, the views were interesting and varied. After leaving the urban sprawl of Brisbane, we passed by pineapple farms, rainforests, and the Glasshouse Mountains.

Further north were cattle stations, wetlands, sugar cane fields, and mango and banana plantations. The route was dotted with coastal towns, each with its own character. I even spotted the odd kangaroo and wallaby, and lots of cockatoos.

The service included a welcome drink of ginger beer, lime, mint, and ice.

The three meals were delivered on a trolley to each seat. Two of them, dinner and lunch, included a complimentary soft drink, juice, water, beer, or wine. Tea and coffee were also provided. Orders were taken in advance of the meal. The food was better than what I’ve encountered in economy-class cabins on international airlines. 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. For the main, I chose oven-roasted pork loin accompanied by an apple infused jus, chat potatoes, carrots, and beans. For dessert, I had the tiramisu cake. The Sirromet Vineyard Selection Shiraz came from Queensland’s Granite Belt.

I considered the cost of overnight accommodation when evaluating the fare. The bed and bedding were very comfortable. Sleeping to the rocking and rolling of the train and soothing sounds of rail travel added to the enjoyment.

The bathroom was spacious and worth the experience of showering to the rocking on the rails. One hand on the grab bars at all times added to the challenge. The water was hot and the pressure was perfect. The bathroom was kept impeccably clean throughout the trip.

In March 2019, my ticket cost AUD 389.25 / USD 268.54 / CAD 371.38, covered by 37,138 Scotia Rewards.

RailBed class seating

By day, the RailBeds are spacious seats capable of reclining up to 35 degrees.

At night, they’re a comfortable bed with a thick mattress and beautiful bedding consisting of a sheet, two pillows, and a duvet.

Staff made them up, and returned the beds to seats, on demand.

I was a little wary of the 2-1 configuration and sharing sleeping space with 18 other passengers. It worked just fine. The pod-like RailBeds provided a considerable amount of privacy, similar to business class pods on an aircraft.

The main lights were turned off at 21:30, but each pod had individual reading lights. Most people seemed to have pyjamas for sleeping. With the beds made up, the lights dimmed, and the curtains closed, it felt like one large upmarket moving hostel dorm.   

Each seat had a standard power point, USB port, and earphone socket. There was a decent-sized 18.5-inch screen on the back of the seat in front. Movies, music, and audiobooks were on demand. However, with daylight, it was more interesting to enjoy the constantly changing coastal Queensland landscape.

There was an extra seat that folded down under the TV. The fold-down seat had a pocket for reading material and assorted items.

Each passenger received an amenities kit of Queensland organic products. The drawstring bag included shampoo, conditioner, face mist, lip balm, body lotion, face cloth, eye mask, earplugs, and headphones.

The overhead compartment contained a towel, blanket, and inflatable neck cushion. Passengers were invited to take the blanket and cushion with them at the end of the journey. The overhead bin was large enough for my carry-on travel bag.

The ride was quiet and smooth, and conversation was possible at a normal volume. After folks settled in, a more social atmosphere prevailed, especially while watching staff make up the beds.

For a change of scenery, the Club Car offered an opportunity to mingle with other passengers over conversation and drinks. 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. At busy times, it was possible to buy a drink and take it back to the comfort of your seat.

• Book as early as possible to take advantage of saver fares and seat selection.
• If you’re travelling solo, reserve a seat in the single bed aisle at the time of booking. I suspect Queensland Rail assigns single bookings in this way but I wouldn’t count on it. Also, I’d steer clear of selecting seats near doors that open and close frequently.
• For your listening pleasure, you might want to pack your own headphones. The ones in the amenities kit are cheap and flimsy. It’s also a good idea to pack your own entertainment. Your entertainment system might not work or the content could be uninspiring. A few downloaded Netflix movies and Spotify playlists, or favourite podcasts or books might come in handy. 
• Pack shower shoes (e.g., thongs/flip flops), and comfortable sleepwear. Shoes with a decent tread will keep you upright when moving throughout the train. A light sweater or pashmina will help combat fluctuations in air temperature.   

Exploring Cairns and environs

Cairns is an excellent base and launching point for exploring Far North Queensland. Ride the historic railway to the hinterland or take a tour out to the Great Barrier Reef. Stroll along the Cairns Esplanade or visit the unique Daintree Rainforest. This three-day itinerary describe these suggestions and a host of other ideas.

The final verdict

What was missing from the RailBed experience? Not much. 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. 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.

Did it represent good value? Yes, especially when factoring in the costs of overnight accommodation, three meals, and long-distance ground transportation. There are also savings from the cost of getting to and from airports, and baggage and seat selection fees associated with air travel.

It was a welcome break from the frenetic pace of busy airports, enhanced security-screening measures, and cramped aircraft space.

The Spirit of Queensland’s RailBed experience was one of the most relaxing journeys I’ve ever had. If you enjoy train travel, it might be for you. I highly recommend it.

If your travel plans involve Australia, you might be interested in these other posts:

• A perfect day trip from Cairns to Kuranda by historic train and rainforest cable car
• 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 Australia’s most recognizable natural landmark
• For a perfect day in Outback Australia, visit Alice Springs Desert Park
• Buying a SIM card in Australia

Care to pin it for later?

Very interesting. I’ve read a couple of articles recently about the resurgence in interest in overnight rail travel, especially in Europe with the expansion of the Austrian Railjet routes. 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. Perhaps I’ll give it another chance.

I have a little service dog and want to know if he can travel with me

I Googled “Queensland Rail service dog” and the following site was at the top of the search results: https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/Pages/Assistance-Animals.aspx

Can you take the train from Brisbane to Cairns but get on and off overnight in various places en route? For example, can I get the train and get off at Pomona, then after a few days get back on and continue to Whitsundays, get off for a few days then continue to Cairns?

Yes, some folks got and and off at different stops but most people seemed to travel the entire route on the RailBed. There are the non-RailBed carriages that might meet your needs. Check out the Queensland Rail site for options. I took a Queensland Rail train form Brisbane to Maryborough and it was very affordable.

I imagine so, but presumably it will cost more and will require paying for each segment. Plus, if you get off in Pomona (for example), there’s no need to take the RailBed as it’s only 150 km or so north of Brisbane. Contact Queensland Rail to find out how your travel plans can be accommodated. Good luck!

How do you return from Cairns when trip finishes I believe it finishes at night

It arrives at 4:30 pm. I would speculate that most travellers spend time in Cairns to explore the hinterland, the reef, and surrounding areas. A direct flight back to Brisbane offers a quick return.

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• What’s the best use of Scotia Rewards? - Packing Light Travel - […] took Spirit of Queensland’s RailBed class train from Brisbane to Cairns. The price of $371.38 could be redeemed for…
• 25 Tips on earning Aeroplan miles - Packing Light Travel - […] cruises. Redemptions are valued at 1 cent per point (e.g., 5,000 = $50). In Australia, I took Spirit of Queensland’s…
• 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 - […] Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of Queensland: Is the RailBed sleeper worth it? […]

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Spirit Of Queensland Review: Brisbane To Cairns Train

Australia’s impressive size and long distances between its destinations make travelling by plane the most popular way to see Australia. But while domestic flights certainly dominate travellers’ preference list, it won’t surprise many to hear that it’s not the most eco-conscious way.

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Luckily, It Is Possible To Get Around Australia Without Flying, Especially On The East Coast By Taking The Spirit Of Queensland Train!

On our recent trip to Australia,  we discovered the beauty of travelling around the East Coast of Australia by train,  and it’s now an experience that we highly recommend to others. 

For us,  trains offer the best alternative to flying . 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. 

One of the  most popular long-distance rail travel in Australia is the Brisbane to   Cairns  train aboard the   Spirit of Queensland , and it was this particular rail journey that we experienced on our recent trip to Queensland.

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Queensland Trains

The Spirit of Queensland is a  long-distance passenger rail service  running along the North Coast between Brisbane and Cairns. They redefine the modern rail travel experience, offering a comfortable and convenient way to access spectacular holiday destinations. The  Spirit of Queensland Brisbane to Cairns train  isn’t the only one departing from Queensland– there are a number of other routes taking you to the far-flung corners of the state!

Here’s a quick look at the other trains and their destinations.

Spirit Of The Outback: Brisbane To Longreach

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 Tilt Train: Brisbane To Rockhampton

The modern  Tilt Train  takes you from bustling Brisbane to some of Australia and Queensland’s most popular destinations, including the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Capricorn Coast, Bundaberg, and Fraser Coast.

The Inlander: Townsville And Mt Isa

This route is slightly less travelled but is by no means less impressive as it crosses the rugged terrain of North Queensland, past Charters Towers, through the Great Dividing Range and into the heart of Queensland.

The Westlander: Brisbane And Charleville

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. You can also get connecting coach services to Quilpie and Cunnamulla.

Kuranda Scenic Railway: Cairns To Kuranda

Kuranda Scenic Railway winds through a tropical rainforest, past rugged mountains, waterfalls tumbling and deep ravines of the Barron Gorge. 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.

READ NEXT:   Hiking the Scenic Rim Trail in Queensland, Australia

Brisbane To Cairns On The Spirit Of Queensland Train

The  Spirit of Queensland  train journey is a  1681-kilometre route  taking about  24-25 hours from Brisbane to Cairns . 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; you’d barely know you were moving at all! 

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.  It has everything you need, from spacious and comfortable seats, beds, showers, a galley car, an all-inclusive dining option, in-seat entertainment, and much more!

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. 

The Spirit Of Queensland Train

You can catch the Brisbane to Cairns train  five times a week  and have the option of booking  RailBed  or  Premium Economy  seats. 

Spirit Of Queensland: Premium Economy Seats

A  Premium Economy  ticket comes with one  20kg luggage  item plus  one carry-on hand   luggage  item free of charge. The seats in Premium Economy are pretty spacious and recline just enough for you to feel relaxed.

You’ll have  your own reading light , a  power point for charging your phone  or other electrical devices, overhead lockers, and  in-seat entertainment . You’ll also get a free knee blanket!

Railbeds On The Spirit Of Queensland

We travelled from Brisbane to Cairns in RailBed seats and were  impressed with the comfort and service level in RailBed Class , very similar to Business Class seats on a plane in both design and style. Not only are the RailBed sets much more comfortable and spacious than seats in Premium Economy, but we found them to be more comfortable than First Class air travel. 

At night, the  staff reclines the seat, turning  it into a lie-flat bed so you can enjoy a good night’s sleep and arrive at your destination well-rested and refreshed. You also get an amenities pack, which includes all organic products.

The RailBed ticket for the Spirit of Queensland train includes  all-inclusive meals,  which are served directly to your seat.

Food On Board

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 . 

We got to sample the delicious   all-inclusive railbed menu  and were really impressed by its quality. It was so much better than what we had ever gotten on a plane. 

For breakfast,  there was a  hot or cold option served at around 7 am.  Hot breakfast consisted of a three-cheese omelette served with pork chipolata, bacon and tomato wedge (there was also a vegetarian option available). The cold option included a choice of cereal with Greek yogurt, berry compote, and a freshly baked pastry. 

Lunch was a 2-course meal served at around midday.  We got to sample both the spinach and feta quiche served with a fresh garden salad and the lemon chicken with rice pilaf and seasonal vegetables. The spinach & feta quiche was definitely our favourite!

For dinner,  we once again had a choice of a  3-course meal.  We opted for a Caprese salad, roasted pork loin and tiramisu cake. Oksana had the vegetarian noodle salad option. 

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 . We were also thrilled to see that the Galley Car meals were served with  Biopak biodegradable cutlery !

Entertainment On Board

We never got bored looking at the stunning scenery outside of our windows, but when it got dark, we had to amuse ourselves before getting some shut-eye. The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and  plentiful entertainment options on board.

There was a good selection of  movies ,  TV shows,   kids’ programmes , and  music channels  available in the in-seat entertainment. The entertainment schedule changes regularly, but you can check it ahead of your trip via the Spirit of Queensland   entertainment guide .

Destinations Along The Route

One of the biggest benefits of travelling by train was that it was easy to hop off and hop back on the train to split up the journey. After all, there are lots of great stops and things to do between Brisbane and Cairns. Here are just a few of them: 

Sunshine Coast – Noosa

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. Disembark here to enjoy the crystal-clear blue waters on the shores of the   Noosa National Park . 

There are also plenty of  fun activities around the park, such as walking trails and the chance to spot some of Australia’s national animals, like koalas and kangaroos.

Hervey Bay – Fraser Island

Hop off the Spirit of Queensland train and  hop on a ferry from Hervey Bay to   Fraser Island , the largest sand island in the world.  This  nature lovers paradise  is definitely worth a stop along your Spirit of Queensland journey.

Fraser Island is known for being a unique nature destination with miles of beach, 100 freshwater lakes and over 30 walking tracks. Not to mention, it’s also home to over 350 species of birds, possums, wallabies, sea turtles, dolphins, and the famous dingo!

The Whitsundays

You can take the Spirit of Queensland train to Proserpine and then take a RailBus Connection to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the  Whitsundays Islands and the Great Barrier Reef . 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 . 

This was one of the stops we made during our journey from Brisbane to Cairns by train. We stopped for 5 days, enjoying some time in Airlie Beach, in the Whitsundays and on the Great Barrier Reef. 

Not only is Cairns a hub of vibrant city life full of great cafés, markets, art galleries, and nearby beaches, but it’s also  a jumping-off point to many other popular tourist destinations . Take your pick from the  Great Barrier Reef ,    Daintree National Park , or one of the many wildlife and nature experiences just outside the city. 

READ NEXT:   Best Things to do in Cairns, QLD

Is The Spirit Of Queensland Train Worth It? 

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.  With a high ticket price, many would wonder, is the journey on the train really worth it? 

In our opinion, it is, especially  if you take it as an opportunity to stop along the way  and break up your journey.  Individual flights to destinations such as Hervey Bay, Airlie Beach and Cairns would easily add up, costing just as much if not more than a rail ticket. 

One of the best things about travelling on the Spirit of Queensland train is the fact that it opens up so many more travel and sightseeing possibilities than flying ever could. 

Take advantage of the coach connections at certain stops to explore parts of the Australian countryside  that many tourists miss out on. You can easily plan your trip with the full   Spirit of Queensland timetable .

Have You Ever Travelled By Train In Queensland? What’s Your Favourite Part Of Train Travel?

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.

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

1 thought on “spirit of queensland review: brisbane to cairns train”.

I had never thought about train travel in Australia, until reading In A Sunburned Country. But even then it felt like such an old-fashioned thing to do. But it actually looks really fun and glamourous! What a cool way to slow travel and see more of a country. Definitely will keep in mind for my next Australia trip (hopefully soon!).

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Spirit of Queensland – Brisbane to Cairns

Rail journey – from £124, brisbane | cairns.

Designed for comfort and relaxation the Spirit of Queensland is the new way to travel on the classic Queensland journey between Brisbane and Cairns.

Highlights:

• Scenic rail travel along the Queensland coast
• Choose to break up your journey along the way
• Choice of lie-flat Railbed or Economy seating
• On demand entertainment systems

Your Rail Journey

The Spirit of Queensland train allows you to sit back and admire, as well as explore the beauty of the East Coast. ​​​​​​​​From beautiful iconic beaches and the Great Barrier Reef to laid back towns, this long distance modern rail service travels the length of the coast from Brisbane to Cairns with regular stops at some of the most popular touring destinations.

The route meanders along the coast stopping at quaint Queensland towns and cities such as Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville as well as Proserpine to access the beautiful Whitsundays and Maryborough West for Fraser Island in the south.

Your Seating Options

Choose to travel in the comfort of the lie flat Railbed or economical Economy

A spacious and comfortable seat by day that converts in to a lie-flat bed at night, similar to an airline business class seat. Enjoy 35 degrees of recline and a wide flat screen TV with on-demand entertainment options including movies and music. At night sleep well on a thick mattress topper and comfortable linen, all included in your fare.

Railbed customers can enjoy all meals served directly to their seat.

An economical way to travel along the Queensland coastline and take in the passing scenery from your window is in the comfort of an Economy Seat. Enjoy generous legroom and a wide selection of on-demand movies on your personal widescreen display.

Economy customers have access to the Club Car which offers refreshments available to purchase throughout the journey.

Onboard Facilities

Club Car allowing guests to purchase refreshments throughout the journey, showers and toilets situated at the end of each of the passenger carriages and water fountains located on every car. Railbed customers have a power outlet next to their seats.

The Spirit of Queensland departs 5 days a week in either direction.

Brisbane to Cairns Timetable

Departs: 13:45   Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat

Arrives: 14:30 Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun

Cairns to Brisbane Timetable

Departs : 09:35 Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri & Sun

Arrives : 10:20 Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat & Mon

Prices shown are per person based on travel in a Economy seat.

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Ride on rails that will bring you a journey filled with rugged terrain, luxury, and overall warmth that can be found nowhere else on the planet.

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Brisbane to Cairns by Train

Spirit of queensland rail, reef & rainforest queensland adventure.

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What's included

• Accommodation based on twin share room
• Activities as per the itinerary
• Professionally guided local tour
• Rail travel as per itinerary
• Transport in air conditioned vehicles
• Airport transfers
• Any items or services not specified
• Internal flights
• Medical and emergency insurance
• Optional tours and activities
• Personal expenses

Queensland package overview

This exciting trip captures the iconic highlights of Far North Queensland in an ultimate reef and rainforest adventure with legendary rail journey to Cairns!

Board the famous Spirit of Queensland train in Brisbane and travel 1681 kilometres to arrive in Cairns the next afternoon.

This week-long escape introduces you to the tropical north, that’s brimming with beauty and wonder. Based in the peaceful surrounds of a Cairns resort, the laid-back vibe and relaxed lifestyle is ideal. From here you’ll get to enjoy snorkelling on the Outer Great Barrier Reef and cruise to exclusive reef locations.

Spend a day exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest, cruising down the Daintree River and discovering the coral sands and lush surrounds of Cape Tribulation. The thrills continue with a cruise to Green Island and the protected Marine National Park. Plus, take a fun journey on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. Enjoy plenty of time to relax, explore at your own pace or take part in the many activities that are available in the region.

Special deal, as seen in The Senior

Get in early for this exciting Queensland rail package!

Departs from Brisbane: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday

For current prices and full details, please call our travel experts on 1300 168 910 or email [email protected] today!

Note: Prices in AUD are per person based on twin share and subject to confirmation with the rail line, hotel and local operators. Booking conditions apply. Contact us for current rates and single supplements for solo travellers.

Inclusions at a glance

• Rail Bed, recliner seat converts to a bed at night
• Palm Royale Resort, Bay Village Tropical Retreat or similar
• Great Barrier Reef and Snorkel Cruise
• Green Island Escorted Cruise
• Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest Escorted Day Tour
• Kuranda Railway Escorted Tour

Why you’ll love this trip

• The adventure starts with the Queenslander train in a comfy rail bed for the 24-hour trip
• Enjoy a tropical retreat in Cairns with a sparkling pool & tranquil atmosphere
• All the must-do sightseeing is included with Great Barrier Reef & island cruises
• Experience the best of Far North Queensland in one spectacular week!

Depart Brisbane on the Spirit of Queensland

Board the Queenslander train from Brisbane for your overnight train tour to Cairns.  The train departs Brisbane at 3.45 p.m. and arrive in Cairns at 4.30 pm the following day.  The Spirit of Queensland is a Queensland Rail long-distance passenger rail service. It runs five times a week on the North Coast line between Brisbane and Cairns, a distance of 1,681 kilometres. At the start of 2015, it replaced the diesel-hauled train The Sunlander. The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the charm of long-distance rail travel. Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation, 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 and Cairns.

Arrive Cairns

Arrive Cairns railway station in the late afternoon and make your own way to your hotel for the next 6 nights.

Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkelling Tour

Set out from Cairns for a day of snorkelling and sightseeing at 2 spectacular destinations in the Great Barrier Reef. Each day, your captain chooses amongst 12 exclusive moorings at 6 reef locations based on the water and weather conditions, making sure you get the best experience to be found. Seasoned dive masters are on hand to provide an in-depth briefing on your gear and what to expect at each site. Relax aboard the vessel as you leave the Australian coast behind and get your gear ready for some quality time in the sea. With outer reef locations chosen for their variety and the striking contours of the ocean floor, you're in for an outstanding experience when you plunge into the water. Once you've had a chance to mingle with the amazing sea life of beautiful corals and tropical fish, kick back aboard the vessel to enjoy a barbecue lunch before you cruise back to shore.

Day Tour Daintree Forest & Cape Tribulation

Spend a day exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest and its incredibly diverse tropical ecosystem with an expert guide. Cruise down the Daintree River and walk through the Daintree Entomological Museum before venturing further to the Cape Tribulation National Park. Start your day with morning pick-up from your hotel, driving north to the Daintree Rainforest. Dating back 135 million years, the rainforest is one of the oldest in the world and is now home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Your guide takes you first to the Daintree River, where you enjoy morning tea before stopping on board a cruise. As you float down the gentle current, look for birds, frogs, crocodiles, and even flying foxes in the flourishing nature around you. Following your cruise, take lunch by the Daintree Entomological Museum before touring its fascinating exhibits, which house the largest live and dead collection of insects in Australia. Your afternoon is spent visiting the Cape Tribulation National Park, where the beach beckons as you stroll along its coral sands. After a pause for refreshing afternoon tea, begin the return journey, catching sight of the extraordinary and primitive king ferns of the Alexander Range on the way back.

Green Island Cruise

Cruise to Green Island, the only coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef with a lush rainforest. Spend the day exploring this protected Marine National Park—immersing yourself in its surrounding undersea universe teeming with coral and marine life. Your journey begins aboard a high-speed catamaran steering for the soft, white beaches of Green Island. This 6000-year-old coral cay boasts its own rainforest—the only of its kind in the Great Barrier Reef. Mid-cruise, tune in to your local guide's informative snorkelling and reef presentation.  Upon arrival, step ashore to soak up the turquoise waters, glittering sand, and fringe of emerald palms ringing the island. Climb into a glass-bottom boat and lean over the railings to get an up-close look at a colourful underwater world. Feast your eyes on brilliant colonies of zany Brain Coral, orange sea stars, and scores of blue damselfish flitting to and fro. If you're craving a swim, strap on a snorkel and mask to see everything up close: black and white angelfish feeding on sponges and striped clownfish nestled amongst anemones. Emerge from the water to amble around the island at your leisure. Relax on the beach to soak up the sun, or choose to indulge in an optional semi-submarine tour, or buffet lunch before cruising back to Cairns.

Free day Cairns

Today is a free day for you to enjoy the sights of Cairns at leisure, or take it easy by the resort pool.

Kuranda Railway Tour

Immerse yourself in the ancient, World Heritage-listed rain forest of Tropical North Queensland. Your full-day adventure begins with pickup at your Port Douglas hotel and a ride on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. During the 1.5-hour journey, wind around mountainous curves and stop briefly at beautiful Barron Gorge for photos.  When you arrive at the station in Kuranda, enjoy several hours of leisure time to spend as you choose. Browse heritage markets and enjoy lunch at a local café (own expense), or select from a variety of optional activities. Join in an indigenous celebration at the Tjupakai Aboriginal Cultural Park, take an amphibious duck tour at the Rainforestation Nature Park or enjoy an up-close observation of some of Australia’s amazing animals at Birdworld and the Kuranda Koala Gardens.

Depart Cairns

Your tour concludes this morning, as you check out of your hotel and catch a taxi to the airport if you're flying out today.

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This wonderful Queensland adventure travels by train from Brisbane to Cairns and includes 6 nights hotel accommodation plus 4 top local tours.

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More about this tour

See the brochure

CLICK HERE to view, download or print a copy of this rail trip brochure.

The brochure includes details of the inclusions, itinerary and other relevant travel information. Information contained in the brochure is subject to change and at the time of booking you will be provided with an updated copy that includes the current details for your reservation.

Trip departure

This Australian rail package departs on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from 15 January to 15 December.

Dates are subject to availability at time of booking and prices can vary depending on travel dates.

Please contact us for current details and available departures.

The embarkation time for boarding the train in Brisbane will be advised once your booking is confirmed.

Important to remember...

The day-by-day tour descriptions are intended as an indicative guide only. Travel by nature is unpredictable. Weather patterns, sea and river conditions, road accessibility, public holidays, travel restrictions and a multitude of other factors may necessitate itinerary changes that are ultimately for the client's benefit. It is essential that travellers are flexible and open minded in this regard.

Speak to a travel specialist

The My Travel Experience team are travel experts and we're here to help you enjoy the best holiday - from the time you start to plan your trip until the day you return home. We are only a phone call or email away whenever you need us, so please contact us today with any questions.

Email [email protected] . Phone 1300 168 910 (in Australia) or +61 400 226 454 (from overseas or via mobile).

New safety measures, more flexibility and greater peace of mind.

The wellbeing and safety of our passengers and staff is always a priority, especially as we adjust to a new world for travellers. My Travel Experience is committed to ensuring your peace of mind with customer-friendly booking practices and enhanced health and safety standards on our trips.

To help you book with confidence, we will assist you if any unexpected situations arise and My Travel Experience also offers clients as much flexibility as possible when making bookings.

Please see our standard Booking Terms & Conditions for additional information.

How to make a booking:

This rail deal is valid for a limited time and space is limited.

Prices can fluctuate for departure dates, please contact us for current rates.

Advertised price is based on lead-price departure(s) and was correct on 30 September 2023. Rates will be advised for your preferred travel date prior to any payment being required.

All prices are per person, based on twin share, and listed in Australian dollars (AUD). The package is subject to confirmation at the time of booking and prices may change without notice. Booking conditions and cancellation fees apply.

Please read My Travel Experience Booking Terms & Conditions prior to making a reservation. By booking any travel service with us, you have agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions.

To make a booking please call My Travel Experience on 1300 168 910 or email [email protected] .

You can also select a trip and request it via this website - please enter your preferred departure date (if known) and the number of people travelling. If you wish to submit an enquiry, please let us know your travel dates plus any other information that will help us provide a quote, such as departure city and travel preferences.

No payment is required to submit an online booking request - your booking is pending confirmation and no place is being held. Your reservation status will be advised when you hear from our travel consultants. Bookings are normally actioned within 24 hours - Monday to Friday.

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