Great Rail Journeys don’t just have to be by land – you can combine fantastic cruise experiences too.

In fact, this form of holiday, where both these romantic forms of transport are experienced simultaneously, is becoming ever more popular.

Check out this advice on how best to enjoy this breath-taking vacation, cruising by rail.

Pick a theme

Maybe you’ve always been fascinated by the wilds of the Shetland Islands and the dramatic volcanoes of Iceland? Then why not enjoy them along with the cultural sites of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, by taking part in a Great Rail Journey and cruise?

Or perhaps your sense of adventure is whetted by the exotic cultural sights of the Eastern Mediterranean, where you can explore Venice, Dubrovnik and Split, before checking out ancient Athens?

Other great choices include Germany’s Rhine, the Rhone and a romantic trip on the Seine in France.

Take in the sights

Make sure you get the most out of your Great Rail Journey, by experiencing the fantastic local sights you’ll be visiting first hand

The great thing about trains and ships is that you don’t need to change hotels to experience a variety of incredible locations. All you need to do is arrive, pack a day bag and head out into whatever world-class location you are visiting.

Friendly staff will tell you exactly what to expect from your new destination and top tour guides are on-hand to make sure you maximise your stay by being fully briefed on what attractions are available.

And the main advantage is, when you are on board you can see these amazing locations from the ocean, river and rail, as they gently roll by.

Pack as much as you like

One of the best aspects of taking part in a Great Rail Journey and cruise is the opportunity to take your luggage and not have to worry about transporting it from location to location.

Your transport is taken care of for you. Then you are free to shop as much as you like, safe in the knowledge that all you need to do is take your new clothes, souvenirs and local bargains back to your carriage or cabin at the end of a hard day’s shop.

Then at the end of your holiday, you can simply take everything you have acquired back home with you.

Make the most of the facilities

Cruise ships are luxurious vessels to travel in. You’ll find great restaurants to eat in and top lounge bars to drink and socialize in, as well as casinos for gambling and a gym and spa to look after your well-being.

Great Rail Journey facilities include gourmet restaurant carriages and relaxing and inviting lounge areas and sleeper compartments.

Remember this advice when you’re enjoying your Great Rail Journey and cruise.