Luxury rail travel is having a moment

As travellers increasingly swap hurried itineraries for slower, more immersive trips, Captain’s Choice is betting that some of the world’s most deluxe trains will be just as much of a drawcard as the destinations they pass through.

The luxury tour operator recently unveiled three new escorted rail holidays for 2027, each built around a legendary train journey in India, Britain and southern Africa.

Keep in mind, these aren’t inexpensive holidays, nor are they trying to be. They are the sort of journeys many people dream about for years before finally taking the plunge . . . a true bucket-list trip.

India, Sri Lanka & the Maharajas’ Express | $39,500 per person

The first combines India and Sri Lanka over 16 days, including four nights aboard the famed Maharajas’ Express. Here, guests will visit highlights including the Taj Mahal, embark on a tiger safari and stay in a collection of luxury hotels before continuing to Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

The Britannic Explorer Train & Remote British Isles | $45,900 per person

In Britain, Captain’s Choice has paired two of the travel industry’s newest luxury experiences into a single itinerary. The 18-day journey includes a privately chartered trip aboard Belmond’s new Britannic Explorer — one of this year’s most anticipated rail launches — before continuing on an expedition cruise through the remote British Isles and Faroe Islands aboard Silver Wind. Departing in May 2027, the itinerary links England’s Lake District with some of the North Atlantic’s wildest coastlines.

Namibia & South Africa Adventures with Rovos Rail | $48,500 per person

The third new journey heads to southern Africa, combining nine nights aboard the celebrated Rovos Rail with time exploring Namibia’s dramatic landscapes. Over 16 days, you’ll visit Cape Town, Fish River Canyon, the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and Etosha National Park, where wildlife encounters are among the highlights.

For more information visit captains-choice.com/en-au.