It’s a journey of a lifetime. A transcontinental rail journey from Sydney to Perth, combined with an Australian cruise onboard Holland America Line’s Westerdam.

You have to be fast as there are only 20 cabins left for this rail, cruise, and stay holiday.

The rail journey

The adventure begins in the Emerald City where you’ll board the majestic Indian Pacific.

Considered as one of the most iconic rail journeys in the world, the Indian Pacific will take in the beauty of the Blue Mountains to the expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.

Get to know your new home on the first evening. After dinner, join you can join your fellow guests for a late-night drink or retire to the Indian Pacific’s well-appointed cabins.

The rail and cruise holiday includes four nights on the Indian Pacific.
The rail and cruise holiday includes four nights on the Indian Pacific.

Day two takes you to the edge of New South Wales. The legendary Silver City of Broken Hill is one of Australia’s main Outback bases. And it is here is where you’ll learn about the town’s rich mining history and artistic culture. It’s the home of Pro Hart, Mad Max, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.  

The train then traverses through the vibrant Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide. Here, you can decide whether you want to explore the city; head to the lush, Adelaide Hills; sample the wine of the Barossa Valley, or instead, take a gourmand’s tour of Handorf.

As you wake the following morning, you’ll find yourself on the edges of the sweeping Nullarbor Plain. You can enjoy take your time and enjoy the scenery along the world’s longest stretch of railway tracks.

By the evening, you’ll stop in Rawlinna to experience a tranquil dinner under the stars before retiring back to the Indian Pacific.

Your Indian Pacific journey ends on day four in the sunny city of Perth. You’ll spend one night where you can explore the evening scene. Alternatively, it’s worth visiting the Fremantle Markets or taking the ferry out to Penguin Island.

Spend a night in Perth tp explore Fremantle
Spend a night in Perth to explore Fremantle

The cruise

The following day is when you’ll join HAL’s Westerdam for a 14-night cruise which will include overnights in Perth and Hobart. And the journey will take you to some wonderful, lesser-known ports in Australia.

The first port of call is Albany, a perfect destination for history lovers. The port city is where many first European settlers landed in Western Australia. And they have left their mark on the colonial buildings that still stand. The rugged coastline is dotted with sandy white beaches and gentle waves.

By day 10 of your epic journey, the Westerdam will reach Port Lincoln, known for its abundance of seafood and captivating wildlife. The city has a rich maritime history and its worth exploring the old fishing vessels. But if you’re feeling daring, you can even go shark cage diving.

So for wildlife lovers, Westerdam also calls at the luscious Kangaroo Island. Amazingly, over a third of the island is dedicated to protected nature reserves. And it’s home to lively sea lions, koalas as well as pottering penguin colonies. It’s also worth sampling some of the beautiful produce like gin and honey, all locally made.

Adelaide is known for its access to some of the country's premier wine regions
Adelaide is known for its access to some of the country’s premier wine regions

On day 14, you will arrive in the cultural capital of the world. The city of Melbourne has buzzy markets and fabulous vintage shopping. There are also great cafes and world-class galleries. But if you are looking to explore the city’s surroundings, it’s worth visiting the nearby Yarra Valley where you can taste world-class wines and explore the region’s leafy forests.

On your final port of call, where you’ll spend the night, the eclectic Hobart, which is known for its fabulous cuisine and interesting culture. Following an overnight stay in port, you’ll travel to quaint Port Arthur. Additionally, the former convict settlement is one of Australia’s most significant heritage sites.

Day 19 is when you bid farewell to the Westerdam, also marking the end of your fabulous rail, cruise, and stay holiday.  

Your Holiday Summary

Full-Board Cruise

  • 14 night full-board cruise on board Westerdam
  • Overnight in port in Perth and Hobart

Hotel Stay

  •  1 night four-star hotel stay at the Rydges Perth Kings Square with breakfast

 All-Inclusive Rail Journey*

  • 3 night all-inclusive rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
  • Off Train Experiences and short stops in Broken Hill and Adelaide

All Taxes & Transfers

For more information, click here.