Great Rail Journeys Acquired by Vitruvian Partners as Rail Travel Surges in Popularity

Great Rail Journeys Acquired by Vitruvian Partners

In a significant move within the travel sector, Great Rail Journeys, known for its luxurious rail tours across over 40 countries, has been acquired by the UK-based private equity firm, Vitruvian Partners. This acquisition comes at a time when rail travel is experiencing an impressive resurgence, with more travelers returning to this classic form of transport.

A Legacy of Luxury Rail Travel

Founded in 1973 in York, England, Great Rail Journeys started as a family-run operation aimed at enhancing the rail travel experience for passengers not only in the UK but also in Europe. Over the decades, it has evolved into a global leader in premium, experience-focused travel, currently offering around 400 itineraries. With the acquisition of Vacations By Rail in 2019, Great Rail Journeys successfully tapped into the burgeoning interest in rail travel in the United States.

Dave Riley, CEO of Great Rail Journeys, expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, "Having tripled our US business size and achieved significant growth in the UK market, we are ready for the next phase in our journey. Our partnership with Vitruvian Partners will allow us to further pursue our growth ambitions." This strategic move follows the departure of previous investors, Duke Street Capital, ensuring that the management team will remain intact to guide the company onward.

The Growing Appeal of Rail Travel

Rail travel is regaining popularity, especially among culturally curious 55+ travelers who prioritize quality experiences in their travel planning. The recent focus on sustainable travel also contributes to the allure of trains, as they tend to have a lower carbon footprint compared to other forms of transport. With unique itineraries like journeys through the Swiss Alps or the Scottish Highlands, the appeal of train vacations has extended beyond leisurely voyages into enriching cultural explorations.

Ben Johnson, a partner at Vitruvian Partners, shared his enthusiasm, saying, "We are thrilled to partner with Dave and his team. Our shared ambition is to elevate the company into the top tier of global escorted travel, focusing on those who appreciate discovering scenic locales by rail and river." This vision aligns perfectly with the ongoing trend of seeking immersive travel experiences that connect individuals with new landscapes and cultures.

Future Prospects with Vitruvian Partners

Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations By Rail, remarked, "Today marks an important chapter for our company. Our remarkable growth in recent years has paved the way for this acquisition, which solidifies our commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences."

Vitruvian Partners is recognized for investing in fast-growth companies across the travel and technology sectors. With a portfolio that includes several notable brands such as Skyscanner and Trustpilot, their expertise is expected to bolster the capabilities and reach of Great Rail Journeys and Vacations By Rail significantly.

The exciting union of these companies promises to enhance the quality and variety of tours available to customers, further solidifying their legacy as a leader in rail travel.

As more travelers lean towards sustainable and culturally enriching experiences, Great Rail Journeys stands poised to continue meeting this demand with its increasingly diverse range of tour offerings. Awaiting travelers are stunning vistas and adventures that only rail journeys can provide, reinforcing the timeless appeal of train travel.

For those interested in embarking on immersive rail adventures or seeking additional information about this pioneering travel provider, visit Vacations By Rail or Great Rail Journeys.