Two long-distance excursion trains that have been among Australia’s popular and iconic attractions will now be owned by Hornblower Group, a U.S. operator of excursions ships and ferries.
The two trains, the Indian Pacific and The Ghan, are operated by Journey Beyond, which has been acquired by Hornblower for A$600 million, or about US$430 million.
The Indian Pacific is a 4500km east-west route between Sydney and Perth across southern Australia, while the Ghan covers nearly 3000km on a north-south route connecting Adelaide and Darwin. Both trains have had major interruptions during the pandemic, but are about to resume normal service next month.
Hornblower operates U.S. services that include the ferries that carry visitors to the Statue of Liberty and Alcatraz, as well as Niagara Falls tour boats. It is also the operating company for the NYC Ferry network.
Maybe the new owner can bring the prices down. The fares are eye-watering.
Sadly, that’s true for that market here: I’ve looked at the Rocky Mountaineer in both its original Canadian version and their new U.S. branch, and wrote them off on price.
On the other hand, less luxurious but still quite enjoyable: Amtrak’s long-distance trains such as the Sunset Limited. Even with private quarters they’re a bargain!