Belmond Announces Launch of Britannic Explorer
Wes Anderson, eat your train-loving heart out! The Britannic Explorer is ready to rumble.
What seems like a lifetime ago, a certain luxury train — Ireland’s Grand Hibernian — made its debut. The Society of International Railway Travelers chartered its maiden journey in 2016 with great success. Beautiful as it was, though, the venture was not financially viable, and the train stopped operating. But Belmond didn’t give up on its lovely train.
Now, the company that operates the highly successful Royal Scotsman has revived its formerly Irish cousin.
Next summer, the Belmond Britannic Explorer will depart London’s Victoria Station on its “maiden voyage” to Cornwall. Like all of Belmond’s gorgeous luxury trains, the Britannic Explorer is heralded as a rolling work of art. Like its sister train, the Venice-Simplon-Orient Express, the Britannic Explorer boasts three over-the-top Grand Suites.
Each includes a comfy double bed, wardrobe, dining table, armchair, sofa and marble-clad ensuite shower. The Britannic Explorer also has twin and double suites which include many amenities.
One highlight of the Britannic Explorer experience is that the cuisine is prepared on board. Famed three-Michelin-starred British chef Simon Rogan is the wizard behind the culinary magic.
Guests can look forward to breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea served in the two dining cars, where everyone has a wonderful seat looking out at the landscapes rolling by.
The all-important observation & bar car boasts a plethora of possibilities: artisanal gin, craft beer as well as a host of other alcoholic concoctions that are served by excellent bartenders. As if that weren’t enough, the Britannic Explorer also boasts a “wellness suite” offering facial and massage treatments.
Meanwhile, outside your window, a pleasure world awaits you. Departing from London, the three-night journeys ply three evocative routes that include visits to Cornwall, Wales and the Lake District. We think combining two of the journeys for a six-night trip will be a huge hit. Optional off-train, guided excursions invite those who wish to explore the rich cultural beauty and history of each destination.
Finally, a bit of history: the transition from Ireland to the UK was a rescue mission of the highest order, according to Gary Franklin, Vice President, Trains & Cruises, Belmond. The biggest challenge came from the fact that Ireland’s track gauge is five feet, three inches wide. In England, it’s four feet, eight-and-a-half inches. Hence, the entire formerly “Grand Hibernian” train had to be fitted with new wheels that could accommodate the standard British gauge.
The wait was well worth it, though, according to Franklin. The Britannic Explorer’s itinerary must be seen – and experienced – to be believed, he said.
“Our guests will see some of the most stunning scenery in all of the British Isles,” Franklin said.
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Starting price for a suite on the Britannic Explorer is £5,800 per person for double occupancy; Grand Suites are £14,100 per person for double occupancy.
To book, email us right away so we can have a brief chat: tourdesk@irtsociety.com. Or, call The Society of International Railway Travelers for more information. 800-478-4881 or 502-897-1725.
