Great Southern Rail (GSR) says it is aiming at budget-conscious travellers with the launch of a range of new Red Service holiday packages to the outback.
This follows a recent $6 million facelift for "Red Service" aboard The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin and the Indian Pacific between Sydney and Perth including refurbished Matilda cafes and Red Gum Lounges, and refitted seating carriages.
The trains are now a one-stop-shop for economy-level travel ranging from Australia-widerail passes to full holiday packages and short day tours, the company says.
One of six new packages is the nine-night Red Centre Expedition, beginning in Sydney aboard the Indian Pacific to Adelaide for a three-night stay including a day wine-tasting in the Barossa Valley.
Next stop is Alice Springs aboard The Ghan, followed by visits in the Red Centre to Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta, plus and an outback cooking experience that includes witchetty grubs.
The Red Centre Expedition is priced at $1,255pp, and $939 for students.
Other packages range from ten to 16 nights, priced from between $1,180 to $1,727
They variously include Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Darwin, Alice Springs, Darwin, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon in various combinations.
A Red Service holiday package is the easy and affordable way to discover outback Australia, says GSR CEO Tony Braxton-Smith.
"It has loads more comfort and features than any other form of transport."
The company also has a range of rail passes for unlimited travel all over Australia.
The Rail Explorer Pass allowing holders to hop on and off The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland as often as they like within a three-month period ($450) or for six months ($590).
Red Service travellers can choose either Red Day/Nighter Seat or Red Sleeper Cabin accommodation.
Full details of itineraries, holiday packages and rail passes speak to your Ucango Travel consultant on 1300 822 646 or email info@ucango.com.au
Ucango is also offering 'Green Season' specials for bookings made by October 31 which include a complimentary night at a Medina hotel.
