by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:30 AM ET, Tue July 14, 2026
Train tour operator Vacations by Rail, having been acquired by U.K.-based Great Rail Journeys in 2025, is being absorbed into the tour operator and rebranding to become a part of Great Rail Journeys in the United States.
The North American team will remain the same, as will the brand’s early booking process and standards—what will change, besides the name, includes more premium offerings and itineraries.
"Uniting our brands creates a stronger platform for growth in the U.S. market," said Dave Riley, CEO of Great Rail Journeys. "For our travel agent partners, this is about making it easier to sell escorted and independent vacations—giving clients access to something greater: more choice, more destinations, and more premium experiences, all backed by the same trusted team."
Great Rail Journeys can now offer over 230 escorted and independent itineraries around the world, including the Premium Glacier Express through Switzerland.
Great Rail Journeys was also acquired by U.K.-based private equity firm, Vitruvian Partners, last year, in the hopes of continuing its growth trajectory.
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