Australians have climbed its way to the top for Rocky Mountaineer Vacations becoming their second largest source market, outside of America in the past 12 months, pushing the European market down a notch to third place.

Making a brief visit to Sydney this week, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations President, Randy Powell along with Vice President Sales Bob Nicholas and Director of Sales, Susan Labentsoff said the Australian market was one of key importance to the rail company, which celebrates its 20th season in April 2009.

“Australia is a number one market for brand awareness and clientele for us,” Mr Powell said.

“Rocky Mountaineer is an iconic brand around the world, and has been voted best travel by train for 3 years in a row.”

Mr Powell said that although they receive a high percentage of Australian visitors following either pre or post Alaskan cruises, the product itself is a main driver of travellers to Canada.

“When people want to come to Canada, it’s the beauty of the Rocky’s that they are attracted to,” he said.

“It is highly scenic and no better way to view it as a soft-adventure. It wraps up an entire scenic and social experience.”

New products for 2009 include the addition of new Escorted Rail Tours, with themes ranging from nature, wine, history and photography, which Mr Powell describes as “the Mercedes of products”.

The escorted tours are operated from a refurbished new dome and adjacent lounge area exclusive to the group.