Picnic Train Kiama
10 reviews
I booked a 4 seater booth in the un-airconditioned carriage. We had a fabulous time. We were able to open the windows and had a lovely breeze, the seats were so comfortable and we had a table between us which allowed us to set up our lunch without… Read more
having to worry about spilling anything. The toilets were very clean and our volunteer, Sam was truly delightful. He was full of information and enthusiasm. I would recommend this to everyone. The train left Tempe a little late but was on time in Kiama and coming home, we were exactly on time. Thank you to everyone involved
Follow-up · We took our own food and drinks, but I believe the snacks on board were good, not a great variety but good value. The view was fabulous, we had a clear day so we were able to see well into the distance and especially when we came near the coast, it was spectacular. The booking process was very easy
Highly recommended trip. It would take lots of money for this historic train to be in working order, so understandably, the tickets are not cheap, but definitely worth it. The volunteers who make it happen are outstanding.
The Kiama Picnic Train is a fun way to spend a sunny weekend with friends or family. The crew are friendly, the vintage train is great to see, and waving to people along the tracks makes the ride more fun. The private compartments for up to 8 passengers felt cramped for our group of 7 they’re better suited for four to six. The train’s a bit run… Read more
down too, with the seats and toilets needing some maintenance. Our trip also left an hour late, so we had less time in Kiama.
Also, keep in mind there’s a strong smell from the steam and coal during the ride part of the experience, but something to be aware of.
Overall, still a fun day out and a different way to enjoy the weekend with friends and family.
This was my first steam train ride, and while I’m glad I experienced it, I wouldn’t do it again. We paid $600 for four people, which included a "high tea" — but the food was disappointing, to say the least. The high tea consisted of one ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich per person, roughly slapped together with some crust still on. We also… Read more
received a cold pastry bite, 1.5 scones each (six shared between four people), and a small selection of homemade baked goods.
On the return trip, we were supposed to receive a cheese and fruit platter. What we actually got was three slices of salami, three thin slices of orange (more like drink garnishes than fruit servings), a few portions of Camembert and tasty cheese, and some crackers.
To make matters worse, the crockery was filthy — and overall, the train itself felt unclean. The day was long, and our departure from Kiama was delayed.
It was certainly an experience, but not one I’d recommend or repeat.
Fun, adventure, history and passion – Four of us (female friends 51-69 years young) just home from a brilliant day out on the Kiama Picnic Train. This entire trip is manned by enthusiastic and passionate volunteers. Every single one of them making a day out for us. Talking with many of them revealed so many interesting facts. Volunteers! No criticism from us. Grateful that passionate… Read more
people enabled an experience on a grand old train… to live in the past. Thank you so much! Those who complain about cost possibly did not spend time speaking with the volunteers about how much coal is used/cost of coal/ running costs/maintenance… I thought $320 for our 4 seater was very reasonable. $80 for an entire day out! We are used to comfort but to experience the authenticity of the train, made the day so much fun. A wonderful memory etched through sound, smells and outside landscapes. Thank you volunteers for sharing your time and passion. We would do this again in a heartbeat!
Disappointing – The red lounge carriage should have seats allocated. When paying that amount of money people should get what they pay for. Sitting in front of an air conditioning unit blowing on our faces and the rain coming in a window which I couldn't close was no fun. For $260.00 it's just not good enough. Total rip off. Don't take this train. Don't waste your money.
Terrible – Air conditioner not working and toilets closed. A complete rip off
Shambolic – We spent $440, a Christmas present for my aging parents. The train was late. No communication at Sutherland Station about why or which platform we should have been on. Then the Train didn't make it to Kiama. Instead we were stuck at Albion Park Rail for two hours. We got various explanations. Kept in the dark for two hours. Then we were dumped at… Read more
Wollongong at 4pm, to spend an hour and a half doing who knows what. And then returned home 30 minutes late. A horrible experience all round.
But if that wasn't bad enough, no apology. Just a pathetic explanation that it wasn't their fault and they got us most of the way, so that is good enough and it sucks to be you because we have many thousands happy.
I am sure the trip is good if nothing goes wrong, but there is absolutely no sympathy if things go horribly wrong. Don't complain if things go wrong, they don't care. You have been warned.
What a day! – We had an absolute blast! We were met by our host JazzyBelle who was an absolute ray of sunshine. The trip was so much fun and we met some great people, did a bit of Bollywood dancing and the best part....bought champagne for $20 a bottle! Go with an open mind and ready to have fun. It is an experience!
A little overpriced – We did the Kiama picnic train on Sunday 17th November - I expected for the price of the ticket and the title of the trip, that it would include a lunch pack. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The fare was $85 for the return journey. I appreciate that it was a historic train - but this was way overpriced - $40 would be an acceptable charge.… Read more
You could purchase some food on board. The toilets were dirty with no water to wash your hands. The return on your opal card is $5.60. Unless you're a train enthusiast, go on the standard train and spend the money supporting the local community in Kiama.
Extra Information
ProductReview.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ProductReview.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.