CANADIAN PASSENGER RAILROADS - Let's talk! BYOB ........

[trainboyH16-44]

Yarrr.............
At least it still exists........

[BudKarr]

I just finished reading all the pages on this thread. Seems that Tom started a good thing, only to have a few characters decide to change the direction. This idea was very well put together and had a decent following. One only needs to go back to page one to get the idea of it all.

Sorry to have to tell you this, but there is no plan to get VIA Rail over on to the CPR right of way. The talk is out there and you know how that goes - enough of it and suddenly people start believing it. It feeds on itself.

If this discussion gets going again, I will provide a story or two - but along the lines that the topic creator envisioned.

For what it is worth, some of us do not require hibernation. (My funny for the day!)

BK

[trainboyH16-44]

Hey, I'm back. I shouldn't have left at all!

QUOTE: Originally posted by chateauricher

Have all you Cannucks gone into hibernation yet ? [swg]

Not yet, and I don't think I will, snowshots are pretty good, with CP red.
I think the P42s look pretty spiffy nowadays, and even though I would hate to see them replace the F40s on the canadian, it's still good to see them on a couple trains. Too bad I haven't seen one in 2 years...
I tried to catch the WB Ocean just east of Moncton, but it was going too fast and we barely missed. it. I was looking forward to seeing it too....but we did go to jasper a while back. Caught the WB Canadian, and the Skeena as it was preparing to go to Prince Rupert. Someday I'd like to ride either of those. The only real train I've ridden in Canada is the on that goes from Montreal-Toronto. I've ridden a couple commuter runs in Montreal, though.
How's the plan to get the Canadian back on CP going?
Matthew

[Junctionfan]

QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy

Junctionfan I've noticed that VIA rarley sends the P42's my way they tend to slip quite badley on the Dundas sub hill our normal fair is F40's.One train this year was 40 minutes late beacause of the rail being wet and they just about dumped their entire sand load on the way up the hill! I would say that a few bugs need to be worked out yet.I seem to remember that Amtrak tends to have multiple P42's on their mountain trains and sometimes an F40 as well. It may be better to purchase more F40's second hand EMD locos tend to go on forever you can't quite say the same for GE yet.Think of howmany early GP's and SD'sare still with us as oposed to early U and C sereis Ge's. just a thought.Here's a shot of a P42 actually making it into Brantford without any undo problems.

I have noticed that some trains with the two locomotives, seem to climb the hill better. One train I saw was 1 P42, 6 Budds and 2 LRCs heading up at Copetown and boy was it chugging.......

I think the most interesting train I saw that wouldn't have a problem between Bayview and Copetown would be train 72. It has 11 LRCs normally but a P42 on each end.

[chateauricher]

Have all you Cannucks gone into hibernation yet ? [swg]

[daveklepper]

Maybe enough influence can be brought to keep the Park cars as part of consist throughout the year, providing a gathering place and a place to enjoy scenery, at least for first class passengers. Some Canadians writing VIA about this idea might help greatly . I don't like the idea of a good rail service being downgraded, and keeping the Park cars as part of the consist would compensate to a huge extent.

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: morseman Posted: 28 May 2005, 19:04:32
SIBERIANMO many thanks for your comments on the renaisance cars
I was awre of the many items you found fault with & you opened my eyes
to several others, I would agree with you on the option of flying.

With the smaller loading guage of these cars, What happend when boarding
at Montreal Central station where there is a high level platform.
Is there a gangway from the platform to the cars, or arre the platforms
made wider to accomidate the cars? And are there any other high level
planforms between Montreal & Halifax?

It's not an option we enjoy thinking about, believe me!

Regarding the boarding and platforms: No changes at all .... the platforms at Montreal's Central Station handle both consists. In fact, the "Ocean" boards at the same platform every time I've traveled it. It would be only a guess on my part whether any reconfiguration had to be made to the Renaissance cars when brought over from England. There were quite a few "things" to do before putting them on the line in Canada ....... and perhaps still others.

Insofar as high level platforms along the route are concerned - I cannot recall any.

Tom (Siberianmo)

[morseman]

SIBERIANMO many thanks for your comments on the renaisance cars
I was awre of the many items you found fault with & you opened my eyes
to several others, I would agree with you on the option of flying.

With the smaller loading guage of these cars, What happend when boarding
at Montreal Central station where there is a high level platform.
Is there a gangway from the platform to the cars, or arre the platforms
made wider to accomidate the cars? And are there any other high level
planforms between Montreal & Halifax?

[VerMontanan]

There's an article about the Chaleur and Ocean (with many photos) in the July 2005 issue of Railfan & Railroad.

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: morsemanPosted: 27 May 2005, 19:30:32
SIBERIANMO
Have enjoyed your trip reports and comments on the "Canadian"
It sure brings back fond memories to my many trips.
In a couple of your postings you have made the odd disparging
remarks about the "Renaaissance" train sets. I agree with
you that they will never be able to compare with the Budd
stainless steel, heavy weights. But could you further elaborate
why you have such a dislike for the Renaissance & will you not
be taking any further trips to Halifax area to visit your family?

Appreicate the compliment! Yes, memories are what this thread is all about .....

Renaissance and my disparaging words ...... Where to begin?
Somewhere on these pages, I think I've documented my trip that I took in October of 2004 aboard the "Euro" train ..... there were some good and not so good opinions. But first - let me address your last thought ....

We do not want to ride from Montreal to Halifax pretty much restricted to sitting in our bedroom compartment. That's it in a nutshell. The train doesn't have a dome car. BUT - as reported recently, they WILL put one on ONLY during tourist season AND apparently there will be some sort of "tour director" to "enlighten" the travelers, etc. No thanx.

Now - back to my thoughts -
(1) The cars are good looking, to say the least. Nice colors and sleek .....
(2) The coach cars are great - very comfortable seats in airline type accomodations, but much better. Large windows - single seating on one side, double on the other. Snack and beverage service by cart ...
(3) Bedrooms are all doubles - some with showers, some without. Very nicely appointed, but smaller beds than in the Budd bedroom cars. Toilet and sink arrangements are within separate enclosure in the room - nice touch. Much less suitcase storage than in the Budd bedrooms. In even numbered bedrooms (if I recall correctly) the seats face backwards when beds are "up." Not my choice - but I was stuck with it.
(4) Continental breakfasts were served in room - nice touch - but apparently this has ceased (along with the cessation of it in the Budd Park Car bullet lounge too for Easterly Class).
(5) No domes - other than the "seasonal" Park Car between June 1st and late September (so I have been told). I've since been told by my "train watcher friend in Halifax/Bedford that he's already seen the Park Car at the end of the Renaissance consist .....
(6) No gathering places to meet or read or just take in the scenery. The very small and "Euro" type lounges are more designed for a quick drink - and outta there kinda thing.
(7) Very well appointed dining cars - double seating on one side, foursomes on the other. NO CHEF - food is prepared in a "super airline style." I absolutely found the meals I ordered to be substandard and unless there's a change to the way the meals are prepared - no more for me in Renaissance.

Oh, I suppose there's more .... but I really don't want to get into the rest of it. I think that if someone had NEVER traveled aboard the Budd cars (especially as much and as often as we do) they probably wouldn't have much to complain about since there wouldn't be any comparisons to make. So, that makes me biased in favor of the Budds. Ok - I admit it! [;)]

I fully understand the history of why VIA Rail purchased these cars from the bankrupt consortium in Great Britain and that the cars were supposed to be "Chunnel runners" and were NOT designed for long distance runs. I also understand that Bombardier supposedly told VIA Rail that to recreate the Budd cars in modern versions would be so cost prohibitive that each car would cost millions to make - each one! Now that's anecdotal stuff - and I'll be upfront with it. I heard it from a couple of mid-level VIA Rail guys (who proabably aren't with them anymore ........). I've also heard it from others - but you know how these things can become very circular .........

So, that's "my story." We really would rather just fly to Halifax - thereby saving quite a bit of money and also having more time to spend with family and friends. It will be very odd not taking the train from Montreal - and it will be a sad thing too. But such is life ........

See ya! [tup]

Tom (Siberianmo)[;)]

[morseman]

SIBERIANMO
Have enjoyed your trip reports and comments on the "Canadian"
It sure brings back fond memories to my many trips.
In a couple of your postings you have made the odd disparging
remarks about the "Renaaissance" train sets. I agree with
you that they will never be able to compare with the Budd
stainless steel, heavy weights. But could you further elaborate
why you have such a dislike for the Renaissance & will you not
be taking any further trips to Halifax area to visit your family?

[adrianspeeder]

So where's the beer?

Adrianspeeder

[Anonymous]

Here's a short Canadian rail adventure from 1959.
In early 1959 I was in the process of being laid off from GE in Erie PA and was scrambling to find a new job. I had an interview in Philadelphia on a Monday AM. I could have taken the PRR direct, but that would be boring. I rode the NYC to Buffalo then TH&B to Hamilton. Then a taxi crosstown to the CN station where I awaited the EB Maple Leaf. This turned out to be my last run behind CN steam and my last ride in a lower berth in a heavyweight Pullman. The routing was CN to Niagra Falls, LV to Bethlehem PA and RDG to Philly. On the way home I did the boring thing and rode the Penn. So being laid off wasn't ALL bad.

[siberianmo]

Canadian Rail Journey, Part IV and final

Wednesday, May 11th, a glorious morning in Bedford (Halifax) Nova Scotia and the time has come to bid adieu to family and friends. Arriving at the VIA Rail station in Halifax, we checked in at the Easterly Class kiosk with plenty of time to spare for our 12:40 PM (ADST) departure for Montreal. The familiar sight of Train #15 and its all Budd consist once again rekindled that feeling of anticipation as we checked our luggage into Bedroom D of the Revelstoke Park car (observation dome). “Claude,” our attendant greeted us with his typically warm and friendly manner and we settled in to our seats up in the dome – front right.

Our train was made up of 13 cars and 2 F40PH locos (#6419 & 6418). The consist: one baggage, three coaches, one Skyline dome car – one dining car – six Chateau series bedroom cars and the Revelstoke Park observation dome car.

After snapping off a few more photos, we began our journey along the winding trackage from the station to the shoreline of Halifax Harbor and Bedford Basin. Before to long, the dome filled with travelers as we left Halifax behind and headed up to Truro. The countryside is a pretty sight, replete with large farms, lakes, and lots of new construction. Makes one wonder just where are all the people moving from?

Since there are no departures from Montreal (or Halifax) on Tuesdays, there was no passing train to view as we cleared Truro on the way to Amherst, the last station stop in Nova Scotia. {Back at the Halifax there was another Budd consist sitting across the platform that would become Train #15 on Thursday. This is the same train I came in on Monday late afternoon with the Evangeline Park observation dome car.)

A thought occurred to me as we wound our way through some really great looking scenery, that this may very well be the last time my wife and I travel the “Ocean” in Budd cars, if at all. As I’ve indicated in previous “reports,” VIA Rail will be shifting all the Budd equipment to western service by January 1st thereby making the “Ocean” an all Renaissance equipment train. Having experienced Renaissance in October of 2004, I doubt that I’ll be spending any of my retirement dollars for a repeat performance.

As always seems to be the case, we arrived in Moncton, New Brunswick rather quickly, although “Claude” told us we were running about 10 minutes late. With the elegant depots of Amherst and Sackville behind us, the idea that we were heading home settled in. Another 15 minute stop at New Brunswick so we stretched our legs, took some pix, and checked out the dining car menu. Oh no! Not again – same menu as every trip thus far since leaving home! With just two entrees on the menu, the selection does become rather limited when one has been traveling the route for 4 evenings since May 5th.

“Claude” told us that the Chaleur, VIA Rail’s train to Gaspe, Quebec, may have a schedule change to permit it to make the trip in daylight. Operating on a three day per week departure in each direction, the “Chaleur” is part of the “Ocean’s” makeup at Montreal, with the separation occurring at Matapedia. That same stop is where “Chaleur” meets the Montreal bound “Ocean” as well. For the first time in many, many trips, we did not have the “Chaleur” with us, nor did I on my “solo” round trips earlier in the week. Anyway, they say the scenery along the route to Gaspe is really something. Perhaps some day, unless someone decides to put Renaissance on the line for that as well.

Rogersville – Miramichi – Bathurst (with some snow still visible) – Petit Rocher – Jacquet River – Charlo and Campbellton (last stop in New Brunswick) all were stops where it appeared more passengers boarded than departed. The Campbellton stop also was our signal to call it a day …. Which we did.

Thursday morning found me sitting in the dome at about 5 AM (EDST) as the train backed into the station at Charny, Quebec. I guess I’ll never get used to this backing in, backing out business – and yes, it is railroading – but somewhere in my “socialization” regarding railroads, trains are supposed to pull in and pull out. As I thought about this quirk of mine, it occurred to me that even my model railroad “empire” requires backing in or out amongst the 8 consists of passenger cars accommodated at my Can-Am Union Station. Oh well ….. In a perfect world, it surely would be different!

With no full breakfast to look forward to in the dining car nor a continental breakfast in the Park car (both discontinued by VIA Rail as cost cutting measures (?)) the day began a bit differently than we were accustomed to. The Park car does offer juices, coffee, tea and hot chocolate along with apples and oranges for the Easterly Class folks. Fortunately, I still had some cookies left from my “solo” trip, so we survived on those until reaching Montreal’s Central Station at 8:05 AM (10 minutes early).

Once we reached Saint-Lambert, it was time to get our things together as the journey was about to come to an end. This was a bittersweet conclusion for us in that 15 years of travel along the Montreal-Halifax-Montreal round trip route may very well have ended.

Once inside the station, we had breakfast at our favorite “sidewalk café” table. Again, each breakfast of two eggs, sausages/bacon/ham with toast and coffee/tea cost $5 (Cdn) each. Had VIA Rail offered the full breakfast, it would have cost us $9 apiece and we would have gladly paid it if for no other reason than to have the ambiance of the dining car along with the views along the way. Alas, change is all about …….

So, that concludes my “report” of our rail experiences in Canada 2005.

The intention of these “reports” has been to share my experiences with those of you who appreciate trains – and the “Ocean,” with over 100 years of operation, is a “Classic” in every definition of the word.
==================================================
When I started this thread it was with the idea of having some "fun" exchanging thoughts and experiences regarding the subject: Canadian Passenger Railroads.

Admittedly, the thread has "lived" longer than I expected and the thanx goes to those who have contributed meaningful information - free from the nonsense alluded to in our "groundrules." [see page 1]

See y'all now 'n then ....... [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)

[trolleyboy]

Junctionfan I've noticed that VIA rarley sends the P42's my way they tend to slip quite badley on the Dundas sub hill our normal fair is F40's.One train this year was 40 minutes late beacause of the rail being wet and they just about dumped their entire sand load on the way up the hill! I would say that a few bugs need to be worked out yet.I seem to remember that Amtrak tends to have multiple P42's on their mountain trains and sometimes an F40 as well. It may be better to purchase more F40's second hand EMD locos tend to go on forever you can't quite say the same for GE yet.Think of howmany early GP's and SD'sare still with us as oposed to early U and C sereis Ge's. just a thought.Here's a shot of a P42 actually making it into Brantford without any undo problems.

[VerMontanan]

Tom,

You've obviously ridden the Ocean a lot. Have you ever ridden the Chaleur? If not, you might have to start, as it's not scheduled to lose its Budd-built equipment. And as far as I'm concerned, it's much more scenic, though the train isn't as long nor is the trip as a whole. Though I've ridden the Chaleur several times, a couple of years ago, in a rental car, I "chased" the train from New Richmond to Gaspe. Lots of great photo opportunities, and with the slow speed of the train (40 MPH is top speed, with lots of 10 MPH bridges and a 10 MPH tunnel), it's easy to do.

[Junctionfan]

The P-42s seemed better to me. When I first went on the VIA with the P-42s, I could actually feel them pulling. I don't remember ever feeling that with the F40 in the lead.

[siberianmo]

Canadian Rail Journey, Part III

The trip back to Montreal on Monday, May 9th, was aboard a similar VIA Rail consist to the one that brought me to Ottawa (4 LRC coaches powered by a Genesis P42 loco). The car was only 1/3rd full, whereas the morning train was packed. My only gripe with the outbound train to Montreal is that there was no opportunity to snap off a few pix …. Boarding call, followed by a “march” to the cars, very structured and organized to say the least.

Departing the Ottawa station at 3:10 PM, Train #34 began the scheduled nearly 2 hour trip to Montreal. The ride was smooth and comfortable. Before I knew it, we were approaching Place Bonaventure and Montreal’s Central Station. Our early arrival (10 minutes) provided me with a little over an hour before boarding call for the “Ocean” and my return trip to Halifax.

One thing of note on the way back from Ottawa was my observance of a N. de M. electrified locomotive sitting at one of the shops near downtown, on the south side of the mainline. This loco didn’t look “well” and my guess (since corroborated) is that it was there for maintenance. I didn’t have the time to snap off a photo, for before I knew it, there it was – and there it went! I still have to look twice when I see the N. de M. markings on rail cars – seeing more of ‘em these days as CP’s and CN’s empires expand.

Once again, sitting within Montreal’s Central Station, listening to the sounds of the train announcements – chimes – bilingual announcements – the hustle and bustle of a real live train station all around me. Yes – this was and remains a special place for me and those of us who appreciate all aspects of passenger rail travel.

The boarding for the Ocean took place precisely at 6 PM for those holding Easterly Class tickets (bedrooms). Proceeding down the escalator to the awaiting train, gleaming in the station lights, I found myself mesmerized once again with just how great those Budd stainless steel cars look and how well VIA Rail has maintained them. (Sure, some may find fault here and there, but my take on that is these very same people probably have “issues” with most things in life – perhaps even Santa Claus!)

My single bedroom (Roomette) this time was at floor level and once getting my gear stowed, I proceeded to the next car, the Evangeline Park observation dome. The 11 car train was the same that brought me to Montreal in the morning – 2 FP40’s (#6441 & 6405) – one baggage, two coaches, one Skyline dome car, one dining car, five Chateau series bedroom cars and the Evangeline Park observation dome car. Car attendants were the same as well, “Joanne” in the Park car and “Al” in the Chateau Brule bedroom car adjacent to the Park car.

Sitting up in the dome – front seat on the right side, I engaged in my familiar “routine” of watching the procession of commuter trains leaving with their cars full, heading off to their suburban destinations. On the right side were the electrified loco’s (out of sight as they had backed in) and on the far left were the trains powered by F40PH’s of Montreal commuter rail system, “AMT” – translated: Montreal Agency of Transportation. During my time in the dome, I did see on LRC consist arrive, powered by a Genesis P42 in that great VIA Rail livery.

6:30 PM arrived and the Ocean slowly left the station behind as once again daylight enveloped the train, giving new perspective to it all. Crossing the St. Lawrence on the Victoria Jubilee Bridge is always special. The Seaway below, with the ships heading off to their destinations, the automobiles, trucks and buses on the bridge, a passing commuter train to the left and of course the structure itself with a turnout to the right, over the water no less. Really is interesting to take it all in.

On this evening, I decided to forgo the dining car experience for two reasons. First, the menu was the same as our Thursday, May 5th trip to Halifax and my Sunday, May 8th trip to Montreal. Enough! Second, I just wasn’t all that hungry – so a sandwich in the Park car dome, with a couple of Alexander Keith’s pale ales “worked” well for me.

VIA Rail is about to undergo several changes to what many of their regular passengers have taken for granted. I posted a separate thread regarding these changes on two forums, and provided Email’s to several people who requested this insight. So, for anyone interested in what these changes are all about – check the previous posts on this thread, and you’ll find them.]

Remaining in the Park car’s dome until about 10:30 PM, I finally gave in to the urge to sleep, and called it a day – a long, enjoyable day. I had accomplished that which was to be done – once again enjoyed the “light show” of the loco’s headlight playing games with the shadows of the night along with the assorted reflections of color bouncing off the rooflines of the cars before me. The signal lights changing, the illumination within the structures within view of the tracks and the occasional highway vehicle racing along in the night. Always captivates my interests …….

Tuesday morning, May 10th and the last leg of my “solo” rail trip would be coming to and end this day. The day began a bit on the overcast side, no rain, just somewhat gloomy. Up at 6:30 AM Atlantic Daylight Savings Time, and directly to the Park car dome. A couple of “shots” of juice, coffee and cookies (purchased at one of the shops within Montreal’s Central Station), provided me with the “start” I needed. “Joanne” was provided with her remuneration in the form of a new cookie supply for being so kind to me the day before.] More than one passenger asked about the “Continental breakfast,” only to be told it no longer is offered (as explained in one of my previous trip reports.) Unfortunately, it appears VIA Rail didn’t do a good job in keeping the passengers informed, especially those accustomed to this particular feature.

Breakfast in the dining car was enjoyable, as always. Several people were commenting aloud with regard to the “missing” continental breakfast in the Park Car’s bullet lounge. It appears that good public relations was not enhanced by this move.

At Campbellton, New Brunswick – about a 15 minute stop - two VIA Rail engineers boarded the train as passenger. They were operating Train #15 on Monday night heading towards Montreal when, according to the senior Engineer, a woman apparently committed suicide right in front of their locomotive. A 42 year old woman stopped her vehicle on the tracks at Nigadoo, NB and waited for the train to hit her. The Engineers were taken off the train for return to Moncton on our train, somewhat somber to say the least.. Needless to say, she died at the scene.

If you’ve never witnessed the scenery in that part of New Brunswick, I find it to be worth the view. Lots of water – the Bay of Chaleur, rivers, inlets and lots of wooded areas, punctuated by a building or three now and then. Stopping at Miramichi, at Miramichi Bay, always perks my interests too. Formerly, Newcastle, the name change apparently was attributable to the mergers of several communities into what it is today. Anyway, for the duration of the stop, there always seems to be lots to look at.

Arriving at Moncton, NB at 11:45 AM, it was time to stretch the aging legs, take some photo’s (again!) and just enjoy what looked like would be turning into a blue skies day after all.

The best part of the trip, insofar as my choice in scenery was yet to come. Passing through Sackville, NB with the Bay of Funday to the right, the prison to the left and then the historic Sackville Station to the right brought back many fond memories. Sackville happens to be the home of a good friend of mine and at least annually, I try to visit with him on a “turn around’ VIA Rail trip from Montreal. There’s about a 4 hour opportunity for a get together, then the westbound pulls in – thereby giving me a “two nighter” on the train, coupled with a brief reunion with my friend. Works well every time!

Next stop was Amherst, NB – first station stop in Nova Scotia. That is followed by Springhill Junction (flag stop) and I always look for Anne Murray – but somehow our schedules just don’t ever coincide!

Traveling eastward to Truro, the scenery is simply beautiful as the train takes to the ridge line of the mountains (“hills” to those of you in western provinces and states!). On this day, Train #15 passed us on the right, an all Renaissance consist heading to Montreal. From Truro to Halifax, nothing but blue skies and signs of lots of flooding from the torrential rains of recent days past.

Passing by “Mom’s” house at Bedford Basin, my wife and mother-in-law were on the front porch, waving as the Park car zoomed by. Another picture taken and another “signal” given to fire up the Buick for the trip to the station in order to pick me up. Works every time!

So, that’s about it. Leg #3 of my 4 part VIA Rail adventure came to an end at 4:45 PM ADST – 25 minutes late – but once again, as far as I’m concerned – on time!

To be continued ……….

See y’all now 'n then!

Tom (Siberianmo)

[Grinandbearit]

Junctionfan; Re the comment on VIA P42s. They do not accelerate as fast as the F40s, in fact,much time was spent trying to reconfigure their computers to achieve better acceleration after delivery. Still not up to the F40s. Trans continental trains and Maritime trains with Budd cars have F40s exculsively. GMDs load up and take off much better than GEs. Also,thats why CP generally uses SD 40s on their Expressway trains.

[morseman]

To: Andrew Jonathon

Great report on your trip

You mentioned staying in Montreal at the Fairmont Hotel
right above CP Station. The hotel Fairmont Hotel
is right above CN Central Station. it was formerly called
(Queen Elizabeth Hotel)

The CP station is about two blocks away CP Windsor Station.
The CP hotel is across the street . It was formerly called
Chateau Champlain

If the names of the hotels changes or above info is
incorrect please correct me, as I haven't been in Montreal
for some time

I believe CP and CN still own the hotels but are now
managed by Fairmont & Delta chains. Changed to give
better world wide recognition for one thing

There is nothing like the CP and CN hotels for their
opulence. Consider the Quebec Chateau Frontenac
Believe it's the only major hotel with no name of the
outside as averyone knows the Chateau Frontenac

Royal York, Toronto, a CP hotel tried to change it's
name on the outide from Royal York to Fairmont
last year or so and quite an uproad.

Consider the other fine CP hotels Chateau Laurier
Banff Springs, Lake Louise, The Empress in Victoris
Hotel Vancouver etc, etc

What other railway in the States has or has such
luxurious hotels.???

More on this at a later date.

[Junctionfan]

Are the LRCs to be replaced at some point. Don't get me wrong, the LRCs are my favourite car to ride in because of the feet room and the huge windows but surely they are getting up there in age too.

Does VIA have enough renaissance equipment to replace the Budd? I saw some in their yard in Oakville but didn't see much more then what was there unless there is a whole pile in Montreal.

Another thing is do they plan on purchasing more P42s? F-40s are great but the P42s have better acceleration then the F-40s. I don't know how well they fair in the Rockies though but Amtrak runs their's through the mountains so I don't see much of a problem.

[siberianmo]

Hello again, andrewjonathon. [;)] Great story - appreciate the kind words! [tup] [;)]

That stop at Levis was a wonderful experience (from Part II of my "trip reports") .....

QUOTE: Morning on the “Ocean” began very early for me. I arose at 4 AM – and decided to sit in the Evangeline Park’s dome until our stop at Charny station. While this stop has existed for decades, the feature stop for the “Ocean” was at a place on the south bank of the St. Lawrence Seaway, directly across from Quebec City called Levis. When on the eastbound, the train sat for about 20 minutes, which gave the passengers an incredible view of the ramparts and lights of Quebec City – just wonderful. The westbound got in a bit early (as with Charny), so most times I slept through that ….. About five years ago, the tracks were sold and removed for Condominiums (or so the story goes) and the Levis station faded into history. The ferry connection between Levis and Quebec City lost much of its charm insofar as passenger train travelers were concerned.

Glad you experienced VIA Rail in such a positive way! I agree with you about those LRC's - nicely appointed and comfortable to travel in.

I'll be posting Part III of my four day/night VIA Rail adventure this weekend .........

See ya! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)

[andrewjonathon]

Siberianmo's story about the Ocean brought back memories of a rail trip that my wife and I took in 1997. We were newlyweds living in Florida at the time and I convinced her to take the train to Massachusetts for one of her friend's wedding. From there we planned to head up into eastern Canada. First, we took Amtrak from Orlando to Boston. Not being a railfan and without a lot of scenery to look at on the East coast, the best thing she liked about Amtrak was that they had movies.

From Boston we rented a car and drove up to New Brunswick and then over to Prince Edward Island. What a wonderful place PEI is. We dropped the car rental in Moncton and caught the Ocean to Montreal. As soon as we boarded VIA, the train travel experience changed for my wife from "why does he like to do this?" to "Wow, this a neat romantic adventure." (I just mentioned to her that we should take another a trip on VIA Rail to see her reaction. A smile came across her face and she said "That was a neat experience, a lot different than Amtrak. The people were so friendly.") Anyway, the whole experience on VIA was unique from sitting in the dome cars, to the dining car, to the sleeping cars, to sitting in the lounge at the back of the train.

We arrived on time in Levis, Quebec. If I remember correctly that means it was about 5:00am. We then took the ferry across the river to Quebec City. I must say Quebec City is such a unique place to visit in North America with its city wall and cobblestone streets. I am surprised it doesn't get more attention as a tourist destination than it does. Its like having a piece of Europe in our own backyard.

From Quebec City, we took an LRC train to Montreal. I really liked the LRC. It was very bright, modern and comfortable. I definitely prefer the LRC to the average non-Acela train that Amtrak runs in the Northeast corridor.

While in Montreal we stayed in the Fairmont Hotel (former CP Hotel) right above the train station. This hotel makes train travel to Montreal so convenient, I would recommend anyone going to Montreal to stay there. The hotel lobby is literally part of the train station.

Leaving Montreal, we took the bus to Vermont and then caught the Amtrak's Vermonter to New York City and back on down to Florida. The conductor on from New York to Florida was a character though. He made an impression because almost every town we went through he got on speaker system to tell us about a friend he knew in the town that was well known for something unique. He was very friendly person, Amtrak needs more people like him.

The thing I remember is that getting back on Amtrak after VIA Rail was like coming back to reality after a great vacation. I always enjoyed riding Amtrak but it wasn't the same after the VIA experience.

Anyway, the trip is a great memory for us and thanks to Siberianmo for reminding me of it.

[siberianmo]

Hello dave e ... [#welcome] and I hope you find this topic of interest to you. There's lots of interesting posts on these 15 pages ..... Don't be discouraged if replies don't come up right away .... sooner or later you'll get a response.

See ya! [tup] [;)]

[Anonymous]

I'm sort of a newbie here but reading the notes on PEI a while back brought my memories of "The Island". I started going there in the early '80s so missed the passenger and mixed. I did see the GE 70 tonners and the MLW 6 axle rd sw. Our place was out near the east end of the island and only saw a train once a week if that. What was surprising was that CNR installed rock ballast (imported at great expense)over the whole east end of the island only to abandon it a few years later.

I'll recount some Candian rail adventures in later posts.

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: VerMontanan Posted: 18 May 2005, 15:03:28
Tom,
Was your fare on the Ocean (albeit this is a bit "off season" still) some or a lot more than in years past? I checked the fare for a roundtrip to Gaspe in the fall, and it was over $400 for a single bedroom. Quit a bit more than in years past.

We booked this round trip for my wife and I in Aug 2004 - so the fares were quite reasonable. If the fare you quoted is in Canadian dollars, ours was pretty close to what you found, and that's for a double aboard the Budd cars. Of course, I get a senior rate and the promotions vary for traveling companion - sometimes free, others a percentage discount, etc.

Only thing I can add regarding more or less expensive in years past is: what goes down in price? So, yes, always costs more - but I didn't note a significant increase. Of course, if I went back to 1990 and our first round trip - well that would be another story.

As noted in my submission of yesterday - service changes are afoot for June 1st and beyond. From the feedback I got from some "old time" VIA Rail attendants, the revolving door keeps moving in Montreal when it comes to those pulling the strings and coming up with newer ways to "turn off" the faithful travelers. Neverheless, it has been, it is and will remain my favorite passenger railroad and we'll ride 'em (Budd cars) as long as they put 'em on the line.

Tom (Siberianmo)

[siberianmo]

Canadian Rail Journey, Part II

On Sunday, May 8th (Mother’s Day and VE Day) I set out on my solo round trip from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Ottawa, Ontario via Montreal, Quebec. Arriving at VIA Rail’s Halifax Station in a torrential downpour, the line up for Easterly Class sleepers had just begun.

I noticed a rather large group of people all wearing name tags and my first thought was, “Oh no, a tourist group!” Experiences from past journeys have not all been that pleasant when encountering some of these organized rail trips and I hope this would be different. It was.

It didn’t take long for me to discern the pronunciation of certain words that only people who reside in the St. Louis, MO, USA area can appreciate. The group turned out to be comprised of people from my community and those adjacent to it. The tour director had been my three children’s math teacher in high school and before I realized it, it was “old home week” at the Halifax Station. This particular fellow and I have traveled aboard the same trains, but never as part of his group. He does a good job at ensuring that all goes well, without the intrusiveness experienced with other groups.

On this day, Train #15, the all BUDD consist of 11 cars (1 baggage car, 2 coaches, one Skyline dome car, one dining car, 5 Chateau series sleepers and the Evangeline Park Car (observation dome with 2 lounges and 4 bedrooms) awaited us. Heading up the train were two F40PH’s, numbered 6441 and 6405 respectively. The train was booked full, including the coaches. There was talk of adding another coach at Moncton, NB, however, that didn’t occur as one wasn’t available.

The rain had been falling since Saturday morning and this was monsoon-like. Heading northward towards Truro, the water on either side of the right-of-way was running fast and at times appeared to be very, very close to the roadbed. Sitting in the Park Car dome, the vantage point was sufficient enough to determine the impact of the storm on the country side. Several crossings had police cars blocking them, lights flashing, probably because of roadways under water.

By the time the train wound its way through the great scenery between Truro and Amherst (last stop in Nova Scotia) the rain began to let up. Our arrival in Moncton was only long enough for me to dash out into the rain, take some photo’s and get back aboard for the continuation of the journey. One of my new-found friends from a community not far from where I live, accompanied me and we got more than a few chuckles from the employees all huddled beneath this or that wondering who these “Yay hoos” were with their cameras! Been there, done that before and will undoubtedly do it again! With a refueled train at the ready, the remainder of the trip was enjoyable – as always.

The dining car was jammed for the evening meal – at least a 15 minute wait for a table. Good to see, in that many of my previous trips witnessed near empty situations, even though the trains were rather full. Somehow this all didn’t equate – fewer menu selections, higher prices equals greater demand? Huh? Another delightful meal, some great dinner table chit chat over a couple of Keith’s Pale Ale, then back to the dome. Ahhhhhhh.

Couldn’t handle much more beyond Campbellton, so it was time to hit the sack. I had a single (Roomette) on this journey in the Chateau Brule bedroom car adjacent to the Evangeline Park observation dome car. This single was an “upper,” in that the step down could be a ‘killer’ if one forgot it was there! Happens …. Amazing how every bit of space is wisely planned for ……… a good night’s sleep interrupted only by my curiousness to take a look through the wide window now and then. Some snow on the ground between western New Brunswick and eastern Quebec.

Morning on the “Ocean” began very early for me. I arose at 4 AM – and decided to sit in the Evangeline Park’s dome until our stop at Charny station. While this stop has existed for decades, the feature stop for the “Ocean” was at a place on the south bank of the St. Lawrence Seaway, directly across from Quebec City called Levis. When on the eastbound, the train sat for about 20 minutes, which gave the passengers an incredible view of the ramparts and lights of Quebec City – just wonderful. The westbound got in a bit early (as with Charny), so most times I slept through that ….. About five years ago, the tracks were sold and removed for Condominiums (or so the story goes) and the Levis station faded into history. The ferry connection between Levis and Quebec City lost much of its charm insofar as passenger train travelers were concerned.

At Charny on the westbound, the train backs in, whereas it is the opposite heading east. Took a few minutes to breath in the chilly morning air – chat a bit with crew and just enjoy the beginning of yet another great morning with VIA Rail.

I must say that those continental breakfasts in the Bullet Lounge of the Park Car was sorely missed on this day. I’m a “pill taker” in my advancing age and without something of substance to go with them, the experience can be rather unpleasant. Fortunately, “Joanne,” our attendant, noticed my discomfort and immediately provided me with a few packages of cookies to go with the complimentary juices, coffee, tea and hot chocolate in the Park Car. She’s a “sweetheart” for sure – an “old timer” from our traveling days aboard the “Atlantic,” which used to run between Montreal and Halifax, but took a more southerly route through Maine. A story for another day …….

We arrived in Montreal about 15 minutes early – 8 AM – and I quickly located a place for breakfast within Montreal’s Central Station. Two eggs, sausages, toast and coffee all for $5 (Cdn) – not bad. What a shame that VIA Rail’s decision makers have no clue regarding breakfast aboard the westbound “Ocean.” The Chef is there – the food is there – the attendants are there and the only thing served is the continental breakfast. Pity.

My Ottawa train departed at 10 AM as I settled into my window seat aboard a VIA Rail LRC coach. For such a short journey, I decided against VIA1 service – much more costly. The train makeup consisted of 4 LRC cars – 1 VIA1 and 3 coaches powered by a single Genesis P42 locomotive. Just love the color scheme (livery).

The hour and 35 minutes flew by and before I realized it – there we were, pulling into the station. Ottawa’s VIA Rail station is a beautifully appointed structure – very modern, airy and clean. Bus and taxi service to downtown is readily available and frequent. I took bus #95 to downtown and off I trudged to the newly opened and dedicated War Museum.

The War Museum is located rather far from where the bus driver left me off. Hmmmmmmm, was there a message there? Anyway, I enjoyed the exercise – snapped a bunch of photo’s along the way of the Parliament buildings, Supreme Court and so on. The weather was outstanding – blue skies and temperatures in the mid-70’s (F). Lots of joggers – lots of jiggles and lots to look at! Ahhhhhhhh, young man on the lose in Ottawa! Well, at least mentally!

Arriving at the War Museum about 45 minutes after my bus departure – really – I was taken in by the new structure and those entering and departing it. The day before, VE Day, Ottawa hosted a terrific remembrance for the veterans and many were still around. I made a point of introducing myself to several and I’ll tell you, many misty eyes all ‘round for sure. I digress a bit: During WWII my father was a U.S. Merchant Marine mate and several of his convoys used to make up at Halifax. There was a special bond between those embarked on those voyages – some only made it one way – some didn’t complete the trips – and the lucky ones are still around to talk about it. Yes, a very significant experience for me.…….

To be continued ……….

See y’all now 'n then! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo

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