Trains and Cruises

Although cruises are my favorite mode of transportation, I also love to ride on trains. What's not to love? You can sit back in a comfortable chair and enjoy the passing scenery. Unlike a bus, you can get up and stretch your legs, and even stand outside on the platform on some trains. (You sure can't do that on a bus or an airplane!)

When a train is based near a cruise port of call or tourist favorite, it usually travels through spectacular canyons, along rivers, or over mountains. In many places, the train tracks were laid before the roads were built, so there's a historical bent to either the train or the route, adding to the fascination.

When I'm planning a cruise, I usually will choose a train ride if one is available as a shore excursion. These 11 examples of train trips taken from cruise destinations are an excellent mixture of the diversity offered.

White Pass Railway in Skagway, Alaska (c) Linda Garrison