Savannahlander
5
Vista completa
Acerca de
Cairns, Queensland, Australia
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2023
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232 opiniones
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Schlepper1939
Brisbane Region, Australia894 aportes
ago. de 2023 • Amigos
We rode the Savannahlander as part of an escorted tour through outback Queensland. It can be done in separate sections, but we did the full experience from Forsyth to Cairns, with an overnight stay at Mount Surprise, so it was a two day trip. Both crew members were knowledgeable and entertaining - they could double as stand up comedians - thanks guys.
The train is comfortable so the trip was not overly arduous.
The first morning out, there was a stop at “Cafe Bloodwood”, a halt in the middle of nowhere where the crew provided us with tea and percolated coffee (local) plus cake and biscuits. Nice touch.
If thinking of doing this trip, expect the unexpected. If an animal is hit, the train stops so crew can either euthanise it or treat it, whichever applies. We had to stop on one occasion until a calf deigned to get off the tracks, and on another occasion for staff to remove a tree off the tracks.
The second day was a long day, almost 10 hours from Mt Surprise to Cairns, but never dull. It was interesting to witness throughout the trip the change in scenery from savannah to rain forest.
Highly recommended for train buffs.
The train is comfortable so the trip was not overly arduous.
The first morning out, there was a stop at “Cafe Bloodwood”, a halt in the middle of nowhere where the crew provided us with tea and percolated coffee (local) plus cake and biscuits. Nice touch.
If thinking of doing this trip, expect the unexpected. If an animal is hit, the train stops so crew can either euthanise it or treat it, whichever applies. We had to stop on one occasion until a calf deigned to get off the tracks, and on another occasion for staff to remove a tree off the tracks.
The second day was a long day, almost 10 hours from Mt Surprise to Cairns, but never dull. It was interesting to witness throughout the trip the change in scenery from savannah to rain forest.
Highly recommended for train buffs.
Escrita el 18 de agosto de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
Oldjack
Greater Melbourne, Australia27.929 aportes
jul. de 2023
The trip was from Mt Surprise to Einasleigh with a return to Mt Surprise by bus. The trip on the old train was well organized and interesting and well worth doing but that was sufficent on the train. The return by bus was poor and took three hours with a lot of wasted time which detratced from the experience.
Escrita el 31 de julio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
78chippy
Port Macquarie, Australia33 aportes
jun. de 2023 • Pareja
This was a fantastic tour, they really look after you with all meals, great accommodation and superb staff and informative and entertaining commentary
Escrita el 23 de julio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
mandrtravels
Dayboro, Australia28 aportes
jun. de 2023 • Pareja
This is a MUST-DO for anyone wanting to see the gulf savannah and the back country beyond the Atherton Tableland. The train drivers, Will and Hamish, provide thoughtful, funny and entertaining information on every part of the journey from rail history, first nations history as well as information about local fauna and flora. There's a choice of itineraries, we chose Chillagoe, Cobalt Gorge and Undara Lava Tubes as our side tours which were all stunning and well guided. Food and service throughout was also great. Put this trip on your list to do soon!
Escrita el 18 de julio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
Ian J
Queenscliff, Australia19 aportes
may. de 2023 • Pareja
A gorgeous half-day trip from Mt Surprise to Einasleigh, then return by minibus. Our driver/guide was full of knowledge, and ambling through the savannah made a nice change from driving through it at 110km/h. Copperfield George at Einasleigh was magnificent. The billy tea and bikkies by a lagoon capped it off.
Escrita el 30 de junio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
April A
5 aportes
jun. de 2023
We had a fantastic time, Hamish and Will were great guides and their commentary was informative and funny. Hamish singing at Mt Surprise was an absolute highlight.
Do yourself a favour and book a trip. We will be back.
Do yourself a favour and book a trip. We will be back.
Escrita el 17 de junio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
CEC939
Sídney, Australia274 aportes
jun. de 2023 • Amigos
Joined train in Forsayth for the 2 day journey to Cairns. Train was extremely clean and comfortable. Our drivers Hamish and Will were very entertaining,knowledgeable and professional. Scenery was beautiful along the journey,lunch stop’s excellent. Would highly recommend the journey.
Escrita el 11 de junio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
VL5FTgho
Mildura, Australia18 aportes
jun. de 2023
We had a great time last week. The scenery, places and people along the way, and the rail travel all were outstanding. However, head and shoulders above all that were the tour guides/drivers. We have travelled extensively since retirement and have never come across such incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining people as Wil and Hamish.
The effort they put into the whole trip is superb, and whilst they don’t make a lot of noise about it, it was obvious that the communities along the way quite rightly have them on a pedestal for the extras they do. The economic benefits are there, but these two blokes value add to the lives of people along the railway through their own personal efforts. Great stuff gents!
The effort they put into the whole trip is superb, and whilst they don’t make a lot of noise about it, it was obvious that the communities along the way quite rightly have them on a pedestal for the extras they do. The economic benefits are there, but these two blokes value add to the lives of people along the railway through their own personal efforts. Great stuff gents!
Escrita el 4 de junio de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
lachie255060
Sídney, Australia229 aportes
abr. de 2023
We did the four day, three night trip from Cairns. We had booked the Gulflander combination trip but unfortunately, due to floods, the Gulflander was cancelled. Savannahlander, however, was a great trip. Our drivers/ guides, Will and Hamish, were both very professional, helpful, and knowledgeable about the history of the train, the area we were travelling through, and the flora and fauna. They made several unscheduled stops for passengers to view spots they were talking about and found a lovely morning tea spot along the river. The train was much more comfortable than we were expecting, and we enjoyed chatting to the other passengers. Accommodation ranged from okay to nice. The trip is highly recommended.
Escrita el 1 de mayo de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
Miranda R
Sunshine Coast, Australia129 aportes
dic. de 2022
Don’t book with this heartless operator unless you get immediate insurance.
My husband and I booked the Savvannahlander Tour. Because my husband has terminal cancer, we are travelling as much as possible, whilst we can. We don’t buy insurance immediately as we spread the trip costs. Due to a recent unexpected medical event, we realised that we could no longer travel to remote locations as he needs access to medical emergency services. Due to the remote locations travelled on this tour, it would now be too dangerous for my husband to undertake.
We wrote to the company to request a refund of our deposit and were told that the T & Cs stated there was NO REFUND on our deposit which was $600. We APPEALED to the company to reconsider their non-refundable policy, as we had given them so many months' notice and they would surely be able to sell our two seats before the tour started.
Several correspondences later appealing to the man’s humanity, asking for:
1) exemption from the policy as this was not simply a change of mind, but now a legitimate medical reason,
2) an explanation of what the actual $600 cost to the company was given they had so many months to resell the two tickets,
3) simple human compassion
4) contact details of the company directors to appeal to them were also requested.
We were told blankly that it was common industry practice not to refund a deposit – not true our remote Kimberly Adventure (with another tour company) which was paid in full (not just a deposit) was fully refunded without any problems.
They would not discuss what their actual loss was,(if any) that justified them keeping the $600 deposit other than it was company policy
And they would not enter into any further correspondence.
Ironically my husband in fact had to undergo further operations for new tumours that had recently developed and radiation therapy during the time of this tour, with us facing a bill of $5,000. We wrote another letter of appeal. Still, the operator was not moved to show any compassion or change of heart to return our deposit.
“Additionally, we will not be providing any cost breakdown, company details or entering into further correspondence on this matter. We appreciate your understanding”
I can’t imagine why they expect our understanding when they have no understanding or kind-heartedness.
Clearly, this is no way to treat a dying man, but if you want to buy a tour and support this company, do so.... but be warned.
My husband and I booked the Savvannahlander Tour. Because my husband has terminal cancer, we are travelling as much as possible, whilst we can. We don’t buy insurance immediately as we spread the trip costs. Due to a recent unexpected medical event, we realised that we could no longer travel to remote locations as he needs access to medical emergency services. Due to the remote locations travelled on this tour, it would now be too dangerous for my husband to undertake.
We wrote to the company to request a refund of our deposit and were told that the T & Cs stated there was NO REFUND on our deposit which was $600. We APPEALED to the company to reconsider their non-refundable policy, as we had given them so many months' notice and they would surely be able to sell our two seats before the tour started.
Several correspondences later appealing to the man’s humanity, asking for:
1) exemption from the policy as this was not simply a change of mind, but now a legitimate medical reason,
2) an explanation of what the actual $600 cost to the company was given they had so many months to resell the two tickets,
3) simple human compassion
4) contact details of the company directors to appeal to them were also requested.
We were told blankly that it was common industry practice not to refund a deposit – not true our remote Kimberly Adventure (with another tour company) which was paid in full (not just a deposit) was fully refunded without any problems.
They would not discuss what their actual loss was,(if any) that justified them keeping the $600 deposit other than it was company policy
And they would not enter into any further correspondence.
Ironically my husband in fact had to undergo further operations for new tumours that had recently developed and radiation therapy during the time of this tour, with us facing a bill of $5,000. We wrote another letter of appeal. Still, the operator was not moved to show any compassion or change of heart to return our deposit.
“Additionally, we will not be providing any cost breakdown, company details or entering into further correspondence on this matter. We appreciate your understanding”
I can’t imagine why they expect our understanding when they have no understanding or kind-heartedness.
Clearly, this is no way to treat a dying man, but if you want to buy a tour and support this company, do so.... but be warned.
Escrita el 11 de abril de 2023
Esta opinión es la opinión subjetiva de un miembro de Tripadvisor, no de Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor les hace controles a todas las opiniones.
Hi there,
have booked the 4 day trip for May 2023.
Would love any tips on packing.
What did you pack that was a success?
What did you wish you packed?
What did you pack that you didn't need? etc etc
Escrita el 4 de diciembre de 2022
I did the 'Rail Runner' trip in May 2022. The temperature was in the mid to high twenties for the whole of the trip, so hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are advisable.
Keep anything you may need between overnight stops in a separate day pack - your main bag is in an open area of the train, but may not be readily accessible.
If you are device heavy, take a small multi outlet powerboard for charging phones, cameras, watches etc.
Carry some cash for incidental purchases along the way (Dimbulah, Almaden, Einasleigh, Mt. Surprise, Forsayth) as EFTPOS can be slow, and staff at some of the remote stops can be exceptionally busy when the train arrives and its passengers start making demands :-).
Enjoy!
Escrita el 4 de diciembre de 2022
Hi, would love to do when I am passing through. Can I do it as a single and does it cost more?
Escrita el 10 de febrero de 2019
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there - yes single travellers are most welcome on the Savannahlander. The cost depends on what fare or package you would like to do. In a nutshell we would charge you for one rail fare, however for most of the packages which include accommodation you will need to pay for a whole room (usually shared cost in a double or twin-share). This comes out in our pricing as the "Single Supplement".
Please see our website and click on "Tours" for all the details.
Escrita el 10 de abril de 2019
Does it stop at Chillagoe? And how do I get back to Cairns from there?
Escrita el 25 de octubre de 2018
Hi, The Savvanahlander stops the first night at Almaden and you bus into Chillagoe as the train line no longer goes there. After Chillagoe you have another 2 nights/3 days on the train. If you speak to the Savvanahlander people you maybe able to spend 3 nights in Chillagoe and catch the train from Almaden on the return journey.
The 4 days are a great trip.
Escrita el 26 de octubre de 2018
What time does the Barron River Rover leave Cairns station please?
Thanks Glenn.
Escrita el 3 de octubre de 2017
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there Glenn,
Thanks for your question, the Barron River Rover is a "short tour" that we offer that allows you to depart with the rest of the group doing the 4 day tour but return on the first day by bus.
If effect, you leave with the normal service which departs the platform at 6:30 am every Wednesday morning. Keep in mind that you will need to allow time to purchase your tickets and get on board, so it's best to arrive 15 minutes early at the Cairns Central Railway Station.
Regards,
Robert.
Escrita el 5 de octubre de 2017
morning just wondering if this tour is suitable for familys ? one having special needs. thank you
Escrita el 28 de septiembre de 2016
It depends on how severe the 'special needs' is. If it is a mobility issue, the train has a lift which was used for luggage and a number of elderly passengers used this to get on and off the train easily. The staff were most cooperative and helpful with this. If toiletting is an issue, it would not be suitable. There is no handicapped toilet on the train, and because of the roughness of the track at times men were advised to sit while using the toilet. I think you would also need to check the accessibility of the night stopovers, they could advise on your needs. Cobbold Gorge and the Lava Tubes would not be at all suitable for wheelchairs. The board walks at the Lava tubes have a number of steps.
The trip is quite suitable for families, but children would need to be able to cope with each day's lengthy train trips. Parental support and management would be needed. You can take snacks and drinks on board and store them in the cooler. There is also plenty of opportunity to walk up and down the carriage and also sit with the driver. My grandchildren would have enjoyed it.
Escrita el 29 de septiembre de 2016
Hi there,
Can you tell me the difference between the two four day tours apart from the cost and also as I'm hoping to go in November, will the cobbold gorge definitely be off the itinerary. Will there be any chance of any swimming on any of the trips?
Thanks
Escrita el 22 de julio de 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there!
Thanks for your question. There have been some changes to the accommodation providers along the route and for the 2017 season (and onwards!) the ONLY difference will be that for the Outback Odyssey for Wednesday night we will accommodate you in the Chillagoe Cabins (as a preference, and the Chillagoe Guesthouse if the Cabins are full) plus that on the Thursday night you will stay at the Undara Lava Lodge in either their Railway Carriages Cabins or in their Pioneer Huts. Due to a limited availability of these venues we will only be offering this tour (The Outback Odyssey) on selected dates throughout the year.
For the Savannah Explorer (which will run on most dates) you will be staying at Chillagoe in the Ecolodge (by preference with overflow to the Motel) and that on Thursday night you will stay in Mt Surprise at the Bedrock Village Caravan Park (Ensuite Cabins) and do a bus tour of the Undara Lava Tubes.
Hopefully that helps - please feel free to ask if you have any other questions!
Escrita el 29 de agosto de 2016
Hi Beth. What time of year did you travel? How did you handle the heat with no air conditioning on the train? Thanks Helen
Escrita el 29 de mayo de 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there Helen!
Thanks for the question - you are correct that the train itself is not air-conditioned, but all the windows open and you are free to move around inside the carriage.
For most of the year it is a very pleasant temperature, but on occasions later in the year (around December) it has been known to get a bit warm. As the train moves through the country the temperature does vary, and the airflow through the windows is very nice!
If you like, we can recommend that you bring along a towel to sit on to make your trip more comfortable.
It is also correct that we have water on the train along with a cooler box to keep your drinks cool. If you would like to stock the Esky with cans or bottles of drinks - just ask your friendly drivers to stop and fill the Esky with crushed ice to keep your drinks frosty-cold!
Thanks again for the question!
Escrita el 30 de mayo de 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there! Yes there certainly is. The train departs from Cairns Central railway station and their is a standing arrangement that you can leave your car parked there for free if you are travelling on the train. Please talk to the parking station attendants when you arrive to make the required arrangements.
Escrita el 7 de septiembre de 2015
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