Make your way to Sydney, where your holiday experience starts after checking into your accommodation. The rest of the day is at your leisure to discover the many attractions of this buzzing city. OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Swissotel Sydney

Today is yours to explore the harbour city from the CBD to Chinatown, Manly to Newtown, or Barangaroo to Darling Harbour. There are plenty of diverse sights, flavours and experiences to take in, including museums, galleries, aquariums, gardens and more. (B)

Experience one of the world’s most iconic cities on an all-inclusive lunch cruise on an exclusive 78ft luxury vessel, Spirit of Migloo. Enjoy a premium two-course menu featuring regionally sourced ingredients. Departing Darling Harbour, we cruise towards Sydney Harbour Bridge and pass the iconic Sydney cityscape and Sydney Opera House. We believe lunch should be a long, lavish affair, so expect a generous al a carte meal inspired by local and regional produce, paired with a selection of beers, wines from some of the finest wine-producing regions in New South Wales, soft drinks and tea or coffee. (B,L)

This morning transfer to Sydney Central Station to begin your epic adventure on board the Indian Pacific. Departing Sydney’s Central Station, get acquainted with your cabin and fellow travellers. Take in spectacular views as the Indian Pacific winds through the Blue Mountains. Tonight, you will enjoy your first meal on board – a regionally inspired dinner paired with fine wine and beverages. After dinner, consider a nightcap in the lounge before you retire to your cabin. (B,D) OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Indian Pacific

Prior to breakfast, prepare for your first Off Train Experience in Broken Hill, the Silver City. Explore mining heritage through visiting the Broken Hill Trades Hall and the striking Miners Memorial that stands over the town or for a different take on Broken Hill, go on a tour of the main drag with fabulous local Drag Queen sensation, Shelita Buffet. Art aficionados may opt to visit the captivating Living Desert Sculpture site or take in the exhibitions at the oldest regional art gallery in New South Wales. Alternatively, ignite a sense of nostalgia at Bells Milk Bar, an icon of Broken Hill, sipping on malted milk while a performance by Cindy and Johnny takes you back to the 50’s. Breakfast is served back on board as the Indian Pacific departs the Silver City. Travel south west through Ngadjuri country for lunch onboard as the Indian Pacific enters the southern tips of the ancient Flinders Ranges. Arriving in Adelaide in the late afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity for an Off Train Experience, exploring the South Australian Museum or indulging in an epicurean experience. Visit the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale to sample fine South Australian wines before an indulgent meal, or try a cheese or gin tasting in the charming Adelaide Hills village of Hahndorf before feasting at Haus, a German restaurant showcasing the best in local produce. Alternatively, visit Adelaide Central Markets for a tour and exclusive sit-down dinner. After dinner, return to the train to continue your journey west. (B,L,D)

Today is all about those amazing outback views as you cross this famous stretch of the Australian interior, the ancient Nullarbor Plain, on the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. En route, the Indian Pacific calls in to Cook, once-bustling, now almost-ghost town that was originally built as a support town for the railway. Travelling further west, the next stop is at Rawlinna on the fringe of Australia’s largest sheep station for a signature dinner under a thousand stars (seasonal). (B,L,D)

Admire the delightful undulations of the Avon Valley and enjoy a final breakfast on board as the final stage of your transcontinental crossing unfolds, heading into Perth. Transfer to your accommodation, where your Perth discovery begins. (B) OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Quay Perth

Make your way to Barrack Street Jetty and board Rottnest Express bound for Rottnest Island, 22kms offshore. A 90-minute air-conditioned bus tour around ‘Rotto’ takes you to some spectacular locations, including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the boardwalk lookout at the rugged west end. Feast on a delicious lunch before exploring the island at your leisure – make sure you meet a quokka. Return to Perth by ferry in the afternoon. (B,L)

It might be the largest state in Australia, but Western Australia’s capital city features a conveniently compact centre, packed with things to see and do. Enjoy your day at leisure in Perth visiting Kings Park, Barrack Square or some of the many museums and galleries. (B)

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation. This signals the end of your epic journey across Australia. (B)