New rail and sail tour from Brisbane to Sydney and return

New heritage rail and sail tour from Brisbane relives the golden era of travel

Six-day short break to Sydney and back by ship and historic train in June 2017

A cruise from Brisbane to Sydney, two nights in the harbour city and a two-day rail trip back to Brisbane form part of a unique, new rail and sail tour this June released by Cruise Express.

Ideal for train and cruise fans from across Australia, the six-day 'Tin Hare Express' tour features three, privately chartered CPH rail motors built in the 1920s. Affectionaly known as 'Tin Hares', the restored rail motors once served regional NSW and offer windows that can be opened for fresh air and clear views of the passing countryside. The June trip will be the first time all three of the rail motors have journeyed to Brisbane.

Perfect as a short break and hosted by Cruise Express, the tour starts in Brisbane on Saturday, June 3, 2017, with a relaxing, two-night cruise to Sydney aboard the 2000-passenger Sun Princess which now boasts the specialty restaurant, 'Share', curated by celebrity chef Curtis Stone. A welcome-aboard cocktail party is included for Cruise Express guests.

After sailing into Sydney Harbour, guests will stay two nights with daily breakfast at the historic Grace Hotel in the heart of the city. On the second night in Sydney, the package includes a three-course gourmet dinner in the 'O Bar & Dining' revolving restaurant on the 47th floor of the Australia Square building which boasts spectacular views of the city lights.

On the fifth day, guests will board the CPH rail motors at Sydney's Central Station for a two-day journey back to the Queensland capital, with train staff sharing the history of the rail motors, their restoration and return to heritage service. The rail trip will make several stops including the Rail Motor Society's home at Paterson in the Hunter Valley for morning tea, Taree for lunch and Grafton for dinner at the riverside Crown Hotel and overnight accommodation at the nearby Quality Inn.

The final day will see guests reboard the train for the final run to Brisbane with a morning tea stop in Casino in far northern NSW.

Including 12 meals, two morning teas and the services of Cruise Express Tour Managers, the six-day 'Tin Hare Express' rail and sail tour is available from $1890 per person, twin-share, or from $2490 for solo travellers. Flights to and from Brisbane, if required, are additional. Visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au