Orient-Express to Launch New Train Journeys and Cruises in 2013

Orient-Express will launch a selection of new train trips and cruises in 2013.

A highlight of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express schedule is a series of new voyages to Scandinavia where the train will travel from Stockholm via Copenhagen for the very first time. The inaugural journey will depart Venice on 8th April 2013 on a two-night rail journey before making the return voyage from Stockholm back to Italy via Copenhagen.

Back by popular demand and reintroduced to The Royal Scotsman’s season is the Country Homes and Gardens journey, departing Edinburgh Waverley on 7th June 2013. A scenic wonderland where one will discover some of Scotland’s finest homes and gardens on a guided tour with famous writer, Sue Shivers, and artistic photographer, Patsy Floyd. Travelling along the eastern coast and covering 720 miles, passengers will be seduced by some of the most intoxicating landscapes Scotland has to offer while soaking in the history of ancient castles and famous gardens. Prices start from £4,660 per person for this fascinating four-night Highland voyage.

Whisky lovers may be tempted by The Classic Whisky Journey, departing Edinburgh on 21st April 2013, in association with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. The trip, which is new for the 2013 season, will include visits to well-known Scottish distilleries and led by an expert Ambassador from the Society. In addition to the many whiskies on board, guests will also be able to sample a variety of the Society’s exclusive malts along the way. Prices for the four-night journey start from £4,330 per person on an all-inclusive basis.

Other extensions available for guests travelling on The Royal Scotsman include Loch Lomond, Gleneagles and Edinburgh. Golf and Whisky focused charters can also be arranged on request.

Also new to The Royal Scotsman’s varied list of itineraries is an extension aboard the luxury cruise-line Hebridean Princess, offering guests the ultimate tour of Scotland. Five and seven-night cruises of the beautiful Scottish Isles and coastline are available to add to a journey aboard the train.

Myanmar is becoming a key destination for many travellers, and Orient-Express has a host of journeys to tempt even the most travelled guests.

Orcaella, the latest river cruiser by Orient-Express, will commence cruising in summer 2013. The ship will meander the Ayeyarwady River between Yangon and Bhamo, stopping at key cultural sites and towns as well as dropping anchor at interesting locations off the beaten track. The nimble vessel will also cruise the Chindwin River, passing extensive mountain ranges, winding its way through western Myanmar as far north as Homalin, just 30 miles from the Indian border.

Highlights of the schedule include seven and 11-night cruises, providing passengers a rare opportunity to explore this magical country’s rich heritage, natural beauty and friendly people, further adding to Orient-Express’ portfolio offering enriching journeys of discovery. Prices start from £3,270 for a seven-night cruise per person.

Cruising along the Ayeyarwady River for over 17 years, the Road To Mandalay, will set sail on its 11-night expedition to Bhamo. The journey will depart three times in 2013 from Mandalay on 14th and 28th August, and 11th September, returning to Bagan and costs from £2,620 per person, including internal flights and tours.

Also available throughout the season are three, four and seven-night cruises as well as several extensions to Inle Lake, Ngapali and Golden Rock.

The Eastern & Oriental Express, regularly embarks on a schedule of unique rail voyages exploring the heart and soul of each country the train passes through. Highlights of the 2013 schedule include the Chronicles of South East Asia, a trio of insightful adventures. They include two six-night journeys and one three-night journey for up to 60 guests in spacious State and Presidential cabins. Each rail voyage offers a fascinating experience, discovering off the beaten track treasures, as the train wends its way through the jungle-clad hills of the Cameron Highlands, across the Mekong River to Vientiane, Laos or through Thailand’s lush exotic landscape.

Epic Thailand will depart on 3rd February and 23rd November, Fables of the Hills will depart on 2nd March and 26th October, and the Tales of Laos journey will depart on 1st October. Prices start from £2,500 for a three-night rail voyage.

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