Ceres Rail is proud to announce “The Mossel Bay Explorer”, a premium six-day rail adventure departing Cape Town on Thursday 7 May 2026.
Billed as “The Soul of the Cape meets the Spirit of the Bay”, this relaxed journey offers travellers a genuine South African experience, gliding through vineyards, mountain passes and rolling farmlands; all from the comfort of vintage observation and lounge coaches.
Unlike flying or driving, the train allows passengers to truly feel the transition from the city bustle to coastal calm.
- The itinerary combines scenic daytime rail travel with comfortable off-train accommodation, selected meals, onboard hospitality and planned steam locomotive highlights.
Key Highlights
- Vintage-era coaches with panoramic viewing windows
- Planned steam locomotive segments (subject to operational availability)
- Five nights in hotels en-route
- Onboard wine tasting on the final day
- Free day in Mossel Bay for beaches, Post Office Tree Museum, casino or golf
- Escorted transfers and onboard support throughout
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 – Thursday 7 May 2026
Early departure from Cape Town, scenic route via Worcester to Swellendam. Light breakfast and finger lunch onboard. Overnight at select B&Bs with catered supper and breakfast.
Day 2 – Friday 8 May 2026
Continue through Heidelberg and Riversdale. Steam locomotive joins at Albertinia for evening arrival in Mossel Bay. Finger lunch onboard. Three-night stay at four-star hotels with supper included.
Day 3 – Saturday 9 May 2026
Free day in Mossel Bay. Breakfast and supper at hotels. Suggested activities (own account): beaches, museum, casino, golf.
Day 4 – Sunday 10 May 2026
Late-morning steam departure along the coast to Great Brak River. Relaxed buffet lunch at Oppi-Stasie restaurant. Return to Mossel Bay. Breakfast and supper at hotels.
Day 5 – Monday 11 May 2026
Return journey through glorious Cape landscapes to Montagu. Finger lunch onboard. Overnight at
select establishments with catered supper and breakfast.
Day 6 – Tuesday 12 May 2026
Breakfast at hotels, wine tasting and finger lunch onboard. Morning transfer to train for onboard wine
tasting. Early evening arrival in Cape Town.
Practical Information
- Price: R24 750 per person (incl. VAT)
- Deposit: Non-refundable R5 000 per person to secure booking
- Included: 4 days of vintage train travel, 5-nights accommodation, breakfast daily, selected lunches/dinners, tea/coffee onboard, on-trip transfers, onboard host support.
- Not included: Optional activities, additional bar purchases, personal insurance, gratuities
Train features vintage lounge and observation coaches (no Wi-Fi, not fully air-conditioned – mild May weather expected) - Steam haulage planned but subject to operational conditions; diesel otherwise
- Mobility note: Not wheelchair accessible; passengers must manage uneven ground and steep coach steps (assistance provided)
- Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice
Bookings and enquiries:
bookings@ceresrail.co.za | +27 (0)21 891 4193
