Frequently Asked Cruise Questions


Will I get seasick?

Most ships are so big and well stabilized that you can hardly tell you're moving. But if you do happen to pass through some rough water, any seasickness can usually be relieved by seasickness medication and ginger tablets.


If I’m travelling on a domestic cruise but there is one stop in PNG or Bali and I choose not to get off the ship at this port, do I still require a passport?

Yes, even if you decide not to get off at this port you'll still require a passport as you are travelling out of Australian Waters.


Do I need travel insurance for a cruise even though I am cruising within Australian Waters?

We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for both domestic and international voyages at the time of paying the deposit. International travel insurance is recommended on Australian coastal cruises, as your cruise is outside the scope of Australian Medicare. Be aware when organising your insurance that uninsured travellers (or their families) are held personally liable for cancellation, medical and associated costs incurred at any time whether before the cruise, on board or overseas. Hospitalisation costs on board or outside of the country and medical evacuation costs are very expensive and are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Daily hospital bills can cost as much as AUD 5,000 per day. All consultations, treatments and medications are charged at private rates.


What is a guaranteed cabin?

When opting for a guaranteed cabin, you are promised a room in the category you have chosen, but you have no control over which one until the cruise line allocates this for you closer to your departure


How do I pay for on board purchases?

The account may be set-up with either a credit card or as a cash account. 

For each purchase made on board the ship you will receive a receipt at the point of sale.  A final statement will be delivered to your stateroom on the last night of your cruise holiday for your review. Guests that set up an account with a credit card should verify the statement.  If all purchases are correct, they will automatically be charged to the credit card.

Guests with a cash account will need to settle their statement on board before disembarking.  The ship will provide you with specific details. Please note that if you select to set up a cash account we will be unable to pre print your cruise documentation in advance and you will need to collect them from the pier.


Where do I feel less motion sickness on the boat?

Most people generally say that you feel less movement towards the centre of the ship. As experienced cruisers we are very honest in saying that if the waters are rough during your cruise it does not matter where you are located.


Frequently Asked Rail Questions


Questions about The Ghan or Indian Pacific

What is the difference between Gold Service & Platinum Service cabin types?

Gold Twin Cabin Service:

With room to stretch out and all the comforts of home, Gold Service is the most popular level of service aboard The Ghan and Indian Pacific. You’ll enjoy private cabin accommodation together with all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of fascinating Off Train Experiences at key stops. Gold Service accommodation is available in both single and twin-share so you can choose to travel with your partner, friends or roll solo.

Features:

  • For Gold Twin, a comfortable sleeper cabin featuring private en suite and upper and lower berths that convert to a three-seater lounge by day
  • Power outlets in cabin
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
  • All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
  • All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All-inclusive Off Train Excursions and Short Stops
  • Luggage allowance is 50kg per guest (2 x 25kg each)
  • Complimentary Shuttle bus transfers available in Darwin

Gold Single Cabin Service:

With room to stretch out and all the comforts of home, Gold Service is the most popular level of service aboard The Ghan and Indian Pacific. You’ll enjoy private cabin accommodation together with all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of fascinating Off Train Experiences at key stops. Gold Service accommodation is available in both single and twin-share so you can choose to travel with your partner, friends or roll solo.

Features:

  • For Gold Single, a compact sleeper cabin featuring a bed that converts to a seat by day and shared shower/toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage
  • Power outlets in cabin
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
  • All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
  • All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All-inclusive Off Train Excursions and Short Stops
  • Luggage allowance is 50kg per guest
  • Complimentary Shuttle bus transfers available in Darwin 

Platinum Double or Twin Service:

Platinum Service offers guests the most luxurious transcontinental holiday Australia has to offer. Boasting deluxe extras such as Platinum Transfers, in-cabin breakfasts and access to the Platinum Club, Platinum Service promises and delivers a journey beyond expectations.

The first thing you’ll notice about your Platinum cabin is the abundance of space, almost twice the size of a Gold Twin Cabin. By day your cabin is configured as a private lounge with deluxe lounge seating, a table and two ottomans. By night you’ll sleep easy as the lounges convert to a comfortable bedroom with either a double bed or twin beds.

Features:

  • Full-size en suite equipped with shower, vanity with cupboard space, toilet and complimentary Australian bathroom amenities
  • Lockable door, power outlets and in-cabin safe
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
  • Picture windows offering views from both sides of the train
  • Transfers at the start and end of your journey available for guests within 50km of the terminal
  • Freshly prepared continental in-cabin breakfasts served upon request
  • Refreshments served in-cabin
  • 75kg luggage allowance per guest (3 x 25kg each).


What time should I check in?

Check in for your rail journey opens approximately two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. We ask all guests to check in at least 60 minutes prior to departure to be welcomed on board.


Can I fly out the same day as the train arrives?

We want you to enjoy your journey without concerns over flight times. As the train can sometimes run behind schedule we recommend you allow at least 3-5 hours after the scheduled arrival time, or preferably an overnight stop (especially for international flights).


Do I need any cash or credit cards on-board?

As these rail journeys are all-inclusive you won't need to buy anything unless you choose to purchase an Off Train Excursion upgrade or souvenirs, which you can do on-board utilising EFTPOS or credit card facilities. Unfortunately Great Southern Rail are unable to provide any cash out on their trains.


What is the address of the terminal?

Adelaide: Adelaide Parklands Terminal, Keswick, South Australia

Perth: East Perth Station, West Parade, East Perth, Western Australia

Sydney: Sydney Central Station, Sydney, New South Wales

Alice Springs: Alice Springs Train Station, George Crescent, Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Katherine: Katherine Railway Station, Railway Terrace Katherine, Northern Territory

Darwin: Darwin Train Station, Salloo Street (off Berrimah Road), East Arm, Northern Territory


Is parking available at the railway station?

Short term parking is available at all terminals so you can have your family or friends see you depart at the beginning of your journey. We don't recommend leaving your car at the terminals for extended periods of time.


Can I store my luggage at the railway station?

As each terminal provides a different experience, it depends on where you are departing from. Luggage can be checked into all terminals 2 hours prior to departure.

Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, and Alice Springs: You are able to store your luggage 2 hours prior to departure at the terminal.

Sydney: There are luggage storage facilities available through NSW Train Link at their luggage check-in area adjacent Platform 1 at a cost of $4.40 per person.

Katherine: there are no luggage storage facilities available at our Katherine Terminal.


Is there a standard of dress on-board?

It is your holiday and we want you to be comfortable so smart casual attire is recommended. We recommend warm clothes for Outback Experiences as mornings and evenings in the Outback can be cool. We also recommend you pack a hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes for your Off Train Excursions.


What weather should I pack for?

Travelling from one end of the country to the other can provide a variation in climates. On The Ghan you can experience mid-30 degree temperatures in Darwin or Katherine and 4 degree nights/early mornings in the desert during your Outback Experiences in Marla or Manguri. On the Indian Pacific, the summer months in Adelaide and Perth average around 30 degrees while temperatures at night on the Nullarbor at places like Rawlinna and Cook can average as low as 5 degrees during winter months. So it is best to pack everything you need plus a warm jacket or jumper, enclosed shoes, a hat and sunscreen into your carry-on luggage.


Can I use my overseas Pension/Concession card to book a Pension Saver Fare?

Pension Saver fares are only available to Australian citizens, however if you book an Advance Purchase Fares you will receive the same level of discount as a Pension Saver fare.


Is medical assistance available?

To ensure your safety and well-being, the on board staff members are trained to administer basic first aid. Great Southern Rail also have a specially modified wheelchair on board for those who have mobility issues or require a carer. You can also check in your wheelchair, walking frame or scooter to be stored as luggage to save you arranging alternate assistance yourself.


What cabins are available for those with a mobility or disability issues?

On The Ghan and Indian Pacific the Pullman Disability Access Cabin is available for wheelchair bound/physically impaired guests travelling in Gold Service aboard selected departures.

The Pullman Disability Access Cabin offers the following features:

  • A more spacious cabin for easier mobility using the Great Southern Rail provided on board pushchair
  • A lounge converting into two lower sleeping berths
  • Mobile height adjustable table
  • Seat and hand rail facilities in the en suite bathroom
  • Flexible hand shower and shower chair
  • Non-scald shower tap for easy control


I've heard that Great Southern Rail have a Gold Superior Cabin, what additional features do these cabins have?

Depending on the departure Great Southern Rail may have a Gold Service Superior Cabin available for purchase. These cabins are larger than the standard Gold Service Twin Cabins and feature a ¾ double bed plus single upper berth. TV and DVD player, tables and chairs and a mini bar which is restocked daily.


Can I take any pets or animals on-board?

Specially trained dogs for the vision and hearing impaired are the only animals allowed on board.


Questions about the Spirit of Queensland


What is the route of the Spirit of Queensland?

From Brisbane to Cairns, a distance of 1681 kilometres over 24 hours

Access spectacular holiday destinations such as The Great Barrier Reef, The Whitsundays, Townsville and Cairns


How often does it depart?

Five times a week

Brisbane to Cairns - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday

Cairns to Brisbane - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday


What is onboard?

RailBeds - A spacious and comfortable seat by day that converts to a lie-flat bed at night with an 18.5inch screen with on demand entertainment. All linen is included in your fare

Premium Economy - Generous leg room with an 8.9 inch screen with on demand entertainment.

Licensed Club Car - open 24 hours offering a range of light refreshments

All Inclusive Dining - RailBed customers can have meals served directly to their seat

Showers and toilets - in the end of each carriage


How much luggage can i take?

RailBed - two 20kg items per customer

Premuim Economy - One 20kg item per customer

One item of hand luggage per customer

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