train tours of canada

• Photo Gallery
• Testimonials & Reviews
• News & Blog Posts
• Work With Us
• – Rocky Mountaineer Train Information –
• Rocky Mountaineer: Journey Through The Clouds
• Rocky Mountaineer: First Passage to the West
• Rocky Mountaineer – Rainforest to Gold Rush
• – VIA Rail Train Information –
• VIA Rail ‘The Canadian’ Train
• Hotel Information
• Rocky Mountaineer Trains
• VIA Rail Trains
• Private Tours
• Custom Tours
• Tour Add-Ons
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Current Travel Updates
• Travel Insurance
• 4 Day Tour: Rockies Passage
• 5 Day Tour: Rockies Passage Plus
• 6 Day Tour: Rockies Essentials
• 7 Day Tour: Lake Louise Explorer
• 7 Day Tour: Rockies Nostalgic
• 7 Day Return Tour: Lake Louise Escape
• 8 Day Tour: Rockies Adventurer
• 9 Day Return Tour: Rockies Circle Essentials
• 9 Day Return Tour: Train Lover’s Dream
• 10 Day Tour: Rockies Relaxer
• 12 Day Return Tour: Rockies Circle Adventurer
• 13 Day Tour: Rockies Glaciers & Gardens
• – View All –
• 7 Day Canadian Nostalgic: Vancouver to Toronto
• 7 Day Canadian Nostalgic: Toronto to Vancouver
• 7 Day Canadian Prestige: Vancouver to Toronto
• 7 Day Canadian Prestige: Toronto to Vancouver
• 12 Day Canadian Adventurer: Vancouver to Toronto
• 12 Day Canadian Adventurer: Toronto to Vancouver
• 16 Day Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Vancouver to Halifax
• 16 Day Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Halifax to Vancouver
• Canadian Rockies Winter Tours
• Eastern Canada Tours
• Rockies Golf Tours
• Southwest USA Tours
• – Rocky Mountaineer Train Tickets –
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver to Banff Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver to Jasper Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver, Whistler, Jasper Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Banff to Vancouver Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Jasper to Vancouver Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Jasper, Whistler, Vancouver Train
• Submit Booking Request
• Request a Quote

Canada Rail Vacations

Your rocky mountaineer and via rail canada train travel experts., "get ready for the experience of a lifetime".

Martin Flanagan Founder of Canada Rail Vacations

Customized Rail Adventures

Our tour packages are custom-made by our team of Vacation Planners to meet your specific needs.

Locally Owned & Operated

We know this country like nobody else.

Private Tour Upgrades

All of our tour packages can be upgraded to included private sightseeing tours & transfers.

Unforgettable Moments

Capture memories to last a lifetime.

Featured Rail Tours

Our most iconic tours - our customers' favourites

Rockies Glaciers & Gardens: Eastbound

This 13-Day tour from Vancouver Island’s lush floral gardens to the remote glaciers of the Canadian Rockies, this tour is our most comprehensive vacation package for Western Canada. Soaking up the…

The Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Eastbound

You’ll start at the Pacific Ocean and end at the Atlantic Ocean. Over 16 days, you’ll see the full breadth of our great country. From lush West Coast rainforests to remote glaciers atop mountains, to…

The Canadian Adventurer: Eastbound

A Canadian adventure is calling your name! Packed with unforgettable natural excursions, must-see highlights, and endless landscapes, this 12-day Vancouver to Toronto tour combines two legendary…

The Canadian Prestige: Eastbound

Combine nostalgia and luxury to get prestige: with one week of unparalleled customer service, five-star accommodation, and the finest attention to detail. The Prestige rail cars aboard VIA Rail’s…

Rockies Circle Train Adventurer

This 12-day circle tour includes 5 luxurious days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Beginning your adventure in Vancouver you will travel from the west coast inward to Whistler on our northern train…

Rockies Adventurer: Eastbound

This 8-day tour provides you with a total of five nights in the Canadian Rockies with stays in Jasper and Banff. You will have time to explore and feel the laid-back atmosphere of these unique…

The Canadian Nostalgic: Eastbound

Step back into a golden past aboard “The Canadian” train – destination Toronto. With five days aboard the train, you’ll be mesmerized by Canada’s Rocky Mountains, Prairies and lake country, you’ll be…

Rockies Essentials: Eastbound

This 6-day tour will show you all the essential locations you need to see in the Canadian Rockies and takes you aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer for two full days along the historic Canadian…

Rockies Relaxer: Eastbound

This 10-day tour provides you with a total of six nights in the Canadian Rockies with stays in Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff. You will have time to leisurely explore and enjoy the laid-back…

Rockies Winter Wonderland

Step back in time and board “The Canadian” winter train to Jasper through the snowy Canadian Rockies. At night, nestle into bed aboard this 50s-era train and be rocked to sleep as you travel through…

Current Promotions

For information on our current deals and discounts, visit the Specials page here:

Winter Specials

Book your Canadian Winter Train Tour and receive a 10% discount on all of our advertised tours for travel between November 1, 2024, and April 10, 2025!

Summer Specials

Past guests of Canada Rail Vacations will receive CAD $500 off per couple in additional savings on new bookings made for the 2024 or 2025 travel season!

2025 Train Travel Deals

Book your 2025 Canada Rail Vacations tour package before September 11, 2024, and receive 2024 rates for 2025 travel, as well as complimentary hotel upgrades!

More About Our Tours

Find out more about our tours, Canadian rail information and history, and levels of service below.

The Rocky Mountaineer

Experience the gold-standard in luxury train travel and unparalleled customer service

Find out what it's like to sleep overnight on a classic, nostalgic train

Hotel Accommodations

Click through to see our trusted hotel partners throughout Canada

Train through the amazing Rockies!

What do our customers think.

Over the past 27 years we've hosted over 11,000 clients in Canada and USA. We've since had hundreds of clients come back on repeat tours. One gentleman has even travelled with us five times. It warms our hearts when guests rebook year over year as it means so much to us to see and speak with them and keep them in the Canada Rail Vacations' family.

Percentage of clients who loved their trip overall.

Percentage of clients who loved their train experience.

Percentage of clients who loved their hotel experience.

Latest News

Here at Canada Rail Vacations, there is always something new on the horizon. Read about the latest from the Canadian Rocky Mountains and beyond.

September 1, 2024

Things to Do in Québec City

Things to do on a free day in Québec City

August 20, 2024

Canadian Travel & Wildfire Updates

Information and Current Travel Updates

March 30, 2024

Should I Get Travel Insurance?

The question of whether to get travel insurance is one that comes up often.

This has been the tour I dreamt of doing. Along the route, the Rocky Mountaineer was the best in service! They know how to wow the client and are good at it. I have glowing accolades for them. Everything in Alberta was amazing. Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff ... all those stops were incredible. We will arrive home on Saturday at about 3 pm. While there’s no place like home, our journey with Canada Rail Vacations was where it all began in September 2017. Thank you Martin, for operating a tour company that fit our needs....and then some. You gave us options to customize this trip to meet our wishes. Thanks to your staff who know their stuff and coddled me along the way, especially Spencer. And a huge shout out to our Tour Guide Julian. Absolutely knowledgeable about the routes we took and of the trains going through the spiral tunnels. Julian really made those four days of private tours so worth it for us. You have in us four happy clients who will now recommend Canada Rail Vacations to others, plus we have amazing memories. Thanks Martin! Lori, Brian, Ruby and Rudy, Virginia, USA (The Canadian Adventurer)

We just returned home from our recent trans-Canada train adventure and wanted to pass along our thoughts on the holiday. We arrived in Vancouver and stayed at the Fairmont, which was lovely. All of the Fairmont accommodations were outstanding. The Rocky Mountaineer was exceptional! The aesthetic, the staff, the food... everything was amazing. The staff in particular on the train were outstanding, I was so touched, as a vegan they went out of their way to accommodate me and went so far above and beyond (I never would imagine that level of service!). We were also so pleasantly surprised by the Delta Kamloops, our room was gorgeous and the location was great. Of course, the scenery in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper was incredible, and we so often found ourselves speechless. Both of our tours in Banff and Lake Louise with Julian were outstanding. He was so knowledgeable and kept us entertained every moment of the tour! All in all, an incredible experience from booking to the actual trip. Thank you for a memorable holiday! Stephanie, Hovan & Doris K., Toronto, Canada (The Canadian Adventurer)

Now safely back in Cyprus and settled in again after a great holiday with you in August. Big thanks to Canada Rail Vacations for leaving the excellent wine at the Sutton Place Hotel in Vancouver, it certainly dampened down the trail dust! Shame you couldn't join us to drink it! You have a great team from the ladies who sorted us out before we left the hotels in Vancouver and Banff, to the staff waving us off and those welcoming us at each stop. The entire trip was memorable on so many levels, but an understated highlight for me was standing at the water's edge of Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, and gazing in wonder at the Walcott Quarry/Burgess Shale! I read about and studied the fossils but to see it in real life was awesome! Anthony, Cyprus (Rockies Circle Essentials)

Now that my wife and I have rested after our very enjoyable tour of Canada and are back into our normal routine we would not like the time to pass without passing on to Canada Rail staff our sincere thanks for making all the reservations and organizing the itinerary.  Suffice it to say that things went like clockwork obviously due in large part to the experienced and dedicated Canada Rail Vacations staff. We will happily refer you to any of our friends and acquaintances who are considering travelling in Canada and will look to you next time we choose to travel in Canada. Many thanks to all! Doug & Norma L, Farrer, Australia (The Canadian Trip of a Lifetime)

Thanks for helping make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience for my daughter and myself. We had many planned, and unplanned, adventures and have many memories. Cannot say enough wonderful things about the staff on both VIA and Rocky Mountaineer. There were some hiccups with scheduling but the graciousness of the staff was superb. Our hotels were very good and thanks for the special gift in Vancouver. We also used your suggestions for touring the city, spot on! Will most likely never tour Canada again as my husband and I toured from Toronto East, but I am recommending Canada Rail Vacations to my family and friends. Thanks again. Judith & Cameron C, Alabama, USA (The Canadian Adventurer)

Join Our Newsletter

Keep up to date with our current news and promotions! Sign up to receive special offers straight to your inbox!

Download Brochure

Find out a little more about riding the rails in Canada and the US with us!

Get to know more about our Canadian team's experience, interests, and favourite places to visit in Canada!

Cross Off That Bucket List Item!

Connect with us.

We would love to hear from you, whether you are just starting your vacation planning process, have questions, or are ready to make a reservation!

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

Train & Rail Tours & Trips in Canada

• Choose from 28 Canada tours
• 800+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Train & Rail Canada tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Canada travel expert at TourRadar

Canadian Rockies by Train (Vancouver, BC to Calgary, AB) (2024)

The canadian discovery, eastern city lights: toronto to quebec city by rail, northern explorer, french flair and coastal charm: halifax to montreal by rail, dream route through the rocky mountains, wonders of the maritimes & scenic cape breton with ocean train to montreal, canadian rockies featuring rocky mountaineer (vancouver, bc to calgary, ab), great canadian rail journey, canadian train odyssey.

• Train & Rail
• Explore Stanley Park and Gastown in Vancouver
• Cruise on Maligne Lake and visit Spirit Island
• See Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks

• Experience a gondola ride on Whistler Mountain
• Explore Toronto's vibrant city life
• Travel through Canada on 'The Canadian' train

• Sightseeing
• Stroll through Ottawa's downtown area
• Cruise near Niagara Falls on a boat tour
• Explore dynamic Toronto neighborhoods

• In-depth Cultural
• Hike by Maligne Lake in Jasper
• Travel from Banff to Jasper
• Discover Banff National Park's beauty

• Explore Halifax and Peggy's Cove
• Try a Lobster Roll at Murphy's Wharf
• Ride the 'Ocean' train to Montreal

• Stroll through Banff and visit Banff Avenue
• Travel on the Rocky Mountaineer through scenic passes
• Explore Calgary on your own from the Calgary Tower

“The locations we visited represented very diverse areas that kept you engaged from start to finish.” Charles, traveled in September 2023

• Tour Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Discover the Cabot Trail's scenic drives
• Visit Sugar Moon Farm for a sugar camp treat

• Educational
• Learn about ammolite in Banff
• End in Calgary with a farewell dinner
• Sightsee Icefields Parkway's glaciers

“This was a wonderful trip made even better by our small numbers of 22 fellow traveller's.” Corinne, traveled in August 2023

• Travel across Canada on the scenic VIA Rail train
• Cruise under Niagara Falls on a thrilling boat ride
• Explore Jasper's natural beauty and wildlife

“Very pleasant people and very attentive.” Robert, traveled in September 2023

• Explore Toronto with a local guide
• Stroll through Victoria's Butchart Gardens
• Cruise close to Niagara Falls

Regions in Canada

Discover TourRadar

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips

Canada is second only to Russia when it comes to land mass, which means seeing the country's vast wilderness can be overwhelming. Luckily, Canadian train trips criss-cross most of it, and these rail journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Just imagine: the nation's vistas unfolding before you slowly (or swiftly, depending on your chariot) while you remain in the comfort of your seat. On top of that, some of the Canada's most remote—and beautiful—spots lack road access, so a train ride may also be the only way to visit. All the more reason to climb on board .

Read on to learn more about 11 of the most beautiful Canadian train trips you can take across the Great White North, as well as some recommendations for where to stay at the beginning or at the end of your railroad adventure. (And for more fabulous train rides, check out the results of Condé Nast Traveler 's Readers' Choice Awards 2023 to see which trains our readers voted the best in the world .)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Via Rail’s Winnipeg to Churchill

This 1,054-mile trip north feels more interplanetary than provincial, whisking you from urban Winnipeg to the tundras of Churchill , known as the polar bear capital of the world. Accessible by plane or train only, it’s also prime turf for beluga whale-watching , and possibly the world’s best perch to view the northern lights. Landscapes en route are breathtaking, with stops including tiny river towns The Pas, Thompson, and Weir River. Splurge on Via’s Sleeper Plus class for access to a bed and shower.

Where to stay: In Winnipeg, check into the impressive and century-old Fort Garry Hotel , a prime example of twentieth-century châteauesque architecture, including prominent cornices and a steep sloping copper roof. In case you needed a bit more of that old-world feel to your trip.

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, Cochrane to Moosonee

Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined, but most visitors stick to its big southern cities. Embarking from tiny Cochrane—nearly 500 miles north of Toronto —the Polar Bear Express chugs five hours further north to Moosonee, so remote it lacks road access. The route mimics a path fur traders favored centuries ago, through a primeval landscape of thick forests and winding rivers. Note that reaching Cochrane involves a flight to northeastern Timmins and an overnight bus ride.

Where to stay: Break up your adventure with a night at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa in Timmins, Ontario. The place is all about rural and cozy vibes, letting you bask in the natural beauty of nearby Gillies Lake Park and Hollinger Park.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train, Ontario

It’s only accessible by trail or rail, which makes Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park near Sault Sainte-Marie such a thrill to visit. Hop on and off this 90-minute ride as you pass four dramatic waterfalls and a trail system that overflows with pristine natural beauty. Bonus: Beavers, the most Canadian of critters, traipse through here frequently.

Where to stay: Since this tour train takes just an hour and a half, you'll need a place to rest your head in Sault Sainte-Marie before continuing your journey. Luckily, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront is near the station, and offers cool views of Saint Mary's River and the United States beyond.

Royal Canadian Rockies Experience, Banff to Calgary, Alberta

Canada’s glitziest train ride is also one of its most cinematic, passing through splendid Banff and Lake Louise, along with jaw-dropping sights like Alberta’s Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site where Indigenous people hunted ruminants by enticing them to leap off a cliff. Still eager to see more? At the end of the line, you can book a helicopter trip over the Rockies for a bird's eye view.

Where to stay: In Banff, you shouldn't miss the Fairmont Banff Springs . This Scottish Baronial fortress grants you a million-dollar view of those majestic snow-dusted mountain tops, which makes the moniker “the Castle in the Rockies” all the more fitting.

Via Rail’s The Canadian, Toronto to Vancouver

A single train journey can’t capture Canada’s magnificence, but this four-night/three-day adventure from Toronto to Vancouver comes close. You’ll take in prairies, lakes, peaks, valleys, hamlets, waterfalls, and, if you’re lucky, cameos by local wildlife like deer, elk, and bears. If you can, book a seat in Prestige Class—think concierge, superb meals, private lounges—for one of the most comfortable train trips you’ll ever take.

Where to stay: Once you're in Vancouver, keep the plush and casually fabulous energy going with a night or two at the dreamy Shangri-La Vancouver , where those who appreciate the subtleties of luxury travel won't be disappointed.

White Pass and Yukon Route, Yukon

Even today, building a railway through the mountains, glaciers, and gorges of Gold Rush country remains an impressive feat, let alone in 1898, when this route was first built. Survey views of the Yukon, BC, and Alaska , as your train rises a gut-churning 3,000 feet in just 20 miles to the summit of White Pass. Touring such treacherous terrain will leave you appreciating how the railway helped knit a nascent Canada together.

Where to stay: There aren't many hotel options in Skagway, Alaska, where this train journey begins. That said, there are a handful of cruises that call at this Alaskan port town, including options aboard Celebrity Cruises , so you can make this a two-for-one adventure.

Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West, Western Canada

If there’s one Canadian train ride that should make your bucket list, it’s the journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff . The whole ride is scenic, offering glimpses into the Great White North’s wildlife as well as its important Indigenous history. Thoughtful guides and storytellers onboard talk you through the locales and vistas from the comfort of your plush leather seats underneath the train cars’ glass-domed roofs. Meals here are delicious too, no matter which class of service you’re in, whether it’s SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf (though the latter’s linen-covered tables are a classy touch).

Where to stay: The Rocky Mountaineer is often spoken about in the same breath as other famous luxury train rides across the world: the Orient Express , Seven Stars Kyushu , or the Royal Scotsman . But unlike those, this isn’t a sleeper train. It travels exclusively by daylight, making the most of the scenery. At night, guests check into a hotel along the route—so your comfort throughout the journey is assured.

Train de Charlevoix, Quebec

Inaugurated in 1889, when it connected Quebec City to remote Charlevoix, this train line cruises along a glorious section of St. Lawrence coastline. Much of the scenery en route seems unchanged a century and a half later, with the mighty river on one side and lush landscapes on the other. Stops include enchanting coastal villages like Baie-St-Paul; consider splitting the journey over two days to explore. The route runs June through October.

Where to stay: Before you climb onboard the train in Quebec City, prep for your journey in old Basse-Ville (meaning “lower city”) at the boutique hotel Monsieur Jean , which offers bright and breezy digs melded with friendly Quebecois hospitality.

Via Rail, Jasper, Alberta to Prince Rupert, BC

The windows-only Dome Car on this nature-filled route offers 360-degree views of the regal Canadian Rockies. During the seven-hour train ride, you’ll also get an ocean’s worth of lakes, including beautiful Yellowhead, Lucerne, and Moose. Have more time? The train heads to coastal Prince Rupert the next morning, where whale-watching and grizzly-bear-viewing are highlights. Bonus: At the Alberta-British Columbia border, the train crosses the Continental Divide.

Where to stay: Once you're on Kaien Island and the train pulls into the port city of Prince Rupert, head for the Crest Hotel , where you can wake up to beautiful waterfront views of—what else?—Prince Rupert Harbour.

Rocky Mountaineer's Journey Through the Clouds, British Columbia and Alberta

The Canadian Rockies’ tallest peak, majestic Mount Robson, is the star of this ten-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary. But it’s hard to pick a highlight when your trip spans sights like British Columbia’s astonishing Hell’s Gate—twice the width of Niagara Falls—and Moose Lake, home to plenty of its namesake. You’ll also get a glimpse of the gargantuan Albreda Glacier, a landscape dating back eons.

Where to stay: When in Canada, you can't go wrong with a Fairmont, and the Fairmont Palliser in Calgary is a true beaut. Plus, it's sandwiched between the city's downtown and the Calgary Design District, so you'll have plenty of sightseeing options when you get off the train.

Via Rail’s The Ocean, Montreal to Halifax

Climbing north into remotest Quebec and east into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, this aptly-named, 836-mile trip lets the wide-open spaces and clear-blue waters unfold like aqua-tinted postcards. Bonus: The Ocean is the oldest continuously running named passenger train in North America, rolling along since 1904.

Where to stay: In Montreal you've got the pick of the litter, but the stately yet modern Hotel Birks Montreal and the classically luxurious Four Seasons Montreal take the cake. Meanwhile, in Halifax, you've got the super sleek Muir, Autograph Collection in the downtown waterfront area, and the richly cozy The Pebble Bed & Breakfast in the South End for an inn-in-the-city experience.

Recommended

Dunes on the Waterfront

North America Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• United States
• New Zealand

Canada Train Trips

Canada Train Trips are truly an iconic experience, tour through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful eastern and Atlantic provinces.

Combining two incredible trains – the renowned rocky mountaineer in the west and via rail, which services routes across the country – our canada train vacations can cater to a variety of budget and interests., so whether you imagine yourself rolling around lakes, curving along the ocean’s edge or riding through the snow-capped peaks of the rocky mountains, our canada train tours can get you there..

Showing results for Canada Train Trips

Canada Train Trips REVIEWS

"Thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance."

Nick Florida, United States

"From day one we felt comfortable that everything was going to be special."

Mark Australia

"Thanks Canada by Design for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package."

Lutfu Istanbul

"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

"We just came back from our winter adventure 5 days/4 nights in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. We had such a nice time and everything was great."

Ina Dominican Republic

"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

Rita Illinois, United States

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

Mark Sydney, Australia

"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

Pam Illinois, United States

"Thanks again, we would certainly recommend you to our friends in Florida!"

Thomas Florida, United States

"It was like a Christmas tree fairyland. It was snowing pretty good. So coming from Texas in the summer it was really special, almost magical. "

Anita Texas, United States

"We had a wonderful trip and everything was arranged very well!"

Jacqueline Netherlands

"They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. "

Annette California, United States

"The way we were able to customize our trip drive/train and explore on our own was awesome! "

Melinda Nevada, United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

Cherie Arizona, United States

"I would definitely recommend this to anyone - but especially to young parents with families. "

Annabelle Delaware, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated. "

Paul Williams Canada

"One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch. "

Joel Yellin Rochester , United States

"We could not have been more pleased with the trip that was planned by Canada by Design."

Carol Cevolani Petaluma, United States

"We found our experience with Canada by Design to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip."

Marjorie Stock California, United States

"We would recommend trips organized by Canada by Design to anyone who is interested in actively exploring parts of the country."

Astrid Ottawa, Canada

"It was a dream come true, I am so happy! "

Joanne Massachusetts, United States

"We had the most fabulous trip to our Winter Wonderland in the Canadian Rockies."

Mary California, United States

"I don't know how I will ever thank you all at Canada by Design for making our trip of a lifetime!"

Ann Australia

"From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. "

Manuel United States

"This was an A++ experience! I'll definitely use Canada by Design for our next trip to Canada."

Kathleen Texas, United States

"We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place."

Anne New Jersey, United States

"Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. I'd happily use Canada by Design again."

Christopher Zurich, Switzerland

"The staff at Canada by Design could not have been more helpful and friendly."

Clive New South Wales, Australia

"There isn't anyone I would rather use for travel to Canada."

Emily Tennessee, United States

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"I would highly recommend Canada by Design and would certainly use them again when going to another area they service."

Joyce New Jersey, United States

"Every part of our trip was well thought out and there were no hitches."

Di New Zealand

"From start to finish Jennifer was very polite and easy-going as well as professional. She offered suggestions when needed and and was on top of all itinerary adjustments and refunds. "

Kim Pennsylvania, United States

"Thanks again for a well planned and hassle free vacation. We will look forward to future vacations with Discover Holidays. "

Ross Ontario, Canada

"Paulina organized an awesome trip for us which included Vancouver Island and the Rockies."

Peter Australia

"Overall it was a great way to see the country for the most part. "

Lorraine Squamish, Canada

"We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country."

Johanna Oswald Little Rock, AR, United States

"My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design! "

Amanda Central Travel

" We would highly recommend Jennifer and Canada by Design for all of your travel needs. We count ourselves very lucky that we found this 5-star team of travel experts!"

Julie Cass Brisbane, Australia

"It was such a relief to know that we could trust Canada by Design before and during our trip."

Vered Mei-Tal Lutherville, United States

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger Petersburg, Virginia, United States

"Our trip through western Canada planned by Canada by Design was fabulous."

Jeffrey California, United States

"We will be recommending you to others and will use you again when we return for more adventure."

Kay New Zealand

"We loved our holiday in Canada"

Louise W California

"Could not have asked for a better…"

Lakshmi Texas

"Vacation Perfection"

Evelyn D Miami, FL

"We booked a trip in Eastern Canada - It was wonderful"

Los Angeles, CA

"Canada - Endless beauty from a train window."

Jane Touzeau Elwood, VIC, Australia

Speak to a Travel Designer

Call +1 604 639 9868 World or Email us

Emergency Banner Component

The Best of Western Canada & Rocky Mountaineer

Select Year

• 2024 Classic
• 2025 Classic

Accommodations

• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

A two-day rail journey aboard Rocky Mountaineer astounds with dramatic contrasts in scenery as you travel from the glacial and alpine landscapes of Lake Louise to the coastal mountains and shores of Vancouver, stopping en route in Kamloops for an overnight stay

A float trip along the Bow River Valley in Banff National Park, followed by Afternoon Tea at Canada's "Castle in the Rockies"

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Travel along the Icefields Parkway, rated as one of the top drives in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, amidst ancient glaciers, stunning turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, woodland trails, and wildlife 

An expertly guided tour of the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center in Whistler to learn about the First Nations people and their traditions

A private whale watching cruise out in the Salish Sea with marine biologists who share insights on the various whale species you may encounter

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

The World Next Door

All aboard! And you're off on a wilderness adventure that's steeped in scenic beauty accessible only by train, boat, float plane and Ice Explorer; rewarding with stays in luxury Fairmont hotels; and enriched by guided exploration with expert guides who introduce you to the gems of Western Canada. It all starts along the stunning shores of Lake Louise, where a three-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise indulges with the natural treasures of Banff National Park. 

The tauck difference in the national parks, into the rockies by rail aboard rocky mountaineer, travel the icefields parkway, one of the top drives in the world.

Experience a drive like no other as you travel along the Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefields. A destination within itself, the parkway is rated as one of the top drives in the world by <em>Condé Nast Traveler</em>; it winds along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks and is dotted with more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock spires, emerald lakes and plenty of wildlife.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Your home for nights 1 – 3.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is one of the world's most-often photographed hotels and is one of Canada's most renowned resorts. Built in 1890, this elegant hotel is set in the midst of extraordinary Banff National Park. Exuding Old World charm, this fine hotel is known to many as "the diamond in the wilderness."

Private whale-watching cruise off Victoria, British Columbia

A whale of a cruise off vancouver island.

A whale-watcher's paradise, the waters off Victoria at the tip of Vancouver Island are home to a wealth of marine life. Along with seals, porpoises, sea lions and countless seabirds, there's a population of resident killer whales (orcas); humpbacks, the region's largest whale, singing loudly to announce their oversized presence; minke, the smallest of the locals here, also quite vocal; and migrating gray whales, often surfacing close enough for a friendly hello during your private whale-watching cruise by Eagle Wing Tours. Climb aboard their cozy, semi-covered catamaran 4 Ever Wild – offering multiple outdoor and inside viewing options, onboard restrooms, comfortable leather seating and more – for an enriching, inspiring and unforgettable nature-viewing experience.

Flightseeing over Vancouver & the Gulf Islands

A bird's-eye view of vancouver and the gulf islands by floatplane.

As far as geographical names go, British Columbia's scenic Gulf Islands can be a bit daunting. First of all, the more than 200 Gulf Islands are actually located not in a "gulf" but in the Strait of Georgia (which has nothing to do with the US state or the former Soviet republic), set between large Vancouver Island to the west, and the British Columbia mainland (where the city of Vancouver is situated) to the east. And to make things even more interesting, the islands include towns with names like Vesuvius and Ganges. But seeing these beautiful, pristine islands – home to many parks and protected areas – from the air is indeed a highlight of your flightseeing trip by floatplane from Vancouver's Coal Harbour that takes you aloft for a bird's-eye view of the city and environs.

Download, Print Or Share

Take The Details With You

Download day-by-day details.

All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

Request A Tour Planner

Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Object reference not set to an instance of an object.

Rocky Mountaineer Assigned Hotel

Kamloops Region

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia

The Fairmont Empress

Victoria, British Columbia

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Whistler, British Columbia

Find your tour

Pricing & Availability

Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Please check back soon.

No departures found.

Try using less filters or select a different year.

Want More Detailed Information?

Request a Tour Planner

Call 800-788-7885

About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Canada. Click here for more information on the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Patrol website.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not require a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. If you are a frequent traveler to Canada from the U.S., you may benefit from the NEXUS program which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet site by clicking here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Canada to determine what travel documentation is required.

Anyone with a criminal record (including some misdemeanors such as Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges) may be excluded or removed from Canada, and should contact a Canadian embassy or consulate well in advance of any planned travel to ensure proper travel documentation.

We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. In addition, we recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $525 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1. 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $525 per person

89-8 days before departure = $925 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico. 

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm). Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey.

Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences. Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc. For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or onboard Rocky Mountaineer or in any of the hotels.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. 

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Canada. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The CDC operates a 24-hour travelers' information number at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Canada to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

Several modes of transportation are used on this tour – motor coach, ferry, float plane and train. In general, this itinerary is recommended for those who have little if any difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or balancing onboard a moving train. Walking is also affected by weather conditions which do vary greatly and can involve snow, ice, and mud.

Regarding Wheelchairs - If you require a wheelchair while traveling, you must meet the specifications of each of the tour's suppliers including the motor coach, ferry, float plane and train. You may bring a collapsible, lightweight wheelchair on tour that weighs less than 100 lbs (45.4 kg), but you must be able to maneuver on and off the coach with limited assistance. We strongly recommend that if you require a wheelchair for travel or have moderate to severe difficulty walking that you bring a companion to assist you. Before you book this tour, you will need to provide us with the exact specifications of the wheelchair, including: size, model, and all components that accompany it to determine its motor coach storage capabilities.

Rocky Mountaineer has a lift to move between the upper level, where the dome car is located and the lower level, where the dining room is located.

  Regarding Oxygen - If you require portable oxygen while traveling, you will be responsible for any maintenance and operation that the tank requires while on tour, and for locating health facilities on the tour route that can perform tank maintenance. If you choose to bring a tank on tour, you will need to provide us the exact specifications of the tank, including size, model, and all components that accompany it prior to booking the tour to determine motor coach storage capabilities. You may inquire about having them filled at a hospital in Vancouver, Banff or Jasper (there is no hospital in Lake Louise), but tank maintenance facilities are limited in the Canadian Rockies.

Vancouver General Hospital : 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C, Canada V5Z 1M9. Phone: (604) 875-4111

Seaton General Hospital : Box 310, 518 Robson Street, Jasper, Alberta T0E 1E0.

Phone: (780) 852-3344. Fax: (780) 852-3413

Banff Mineral Springs Hospital : 305 Lynx Street, Banff, Alberta, Canada TIL1H7.

Phone: (403) 760-7214

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The summer weather in the Canadian Rockies can change instantly and is often unpredictable as in any mountainous region. From June through early September, normal temperatures range from 50 to 80˚F (10 to 27˚C). However, the Canadian Rockies could experience some unusually warm weather (80 to 90˚F) (26 to 32˚C) during the summer months. Therefore, we suggest including some light warm weather clothing in your travel wardrobe. Conditions are often very local and can change radically from one valley to the next, or change during the course of the day. Due to its geographic location, Western Canada generally has long hours of daylight and in mid-summer the sun will rise as early as 5:00 a.m. and set as late as 10:00 p.m. In the early spring and fall, daylight hours average about 14 hours, from 6:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Rainfall is greatest by the ocean in Vancouver and lighter in the interior portions of the Canadian Rockies.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

When joining a Tauck journey, every guest is responsible for their own health and, in turn, the protection of their fellow travelers, the Tauck staff, our suppliers and the places we visit. As such, you are expected to follow local and supplier guidelines regarding face coverings, as explained by your Tauck Director. Our partners may have a limited supply of face coverings, gloves, and hand sanitizer, so please bring such personal items for your own comfort.

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. During the evenings some dining rooms require smart casual attire for dinner (no jeans) and some fine dining rooms recommend jackets for the gentlemen, but they are not required.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee at all the Fairmont Hotels on this itinerary.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• A reusable water bottle
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Hiking boots if you would like to hike on some of the more extensive trails
• Travel alarm clock/ cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

The Tauck Experience

Leave Your Worries At Home

One upfront price – no hidden costs, tauck directors – simply the best, never settle for ordinary.

• {{ forumDate }} {{ forumTopic }} ({{ totalForumComments }})

From the Forum

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

Related Journeys

Other Journeys You May Enjoy

Canadian rockies & glacier national park.

From $7,990

Land Journey

Vancouver & the Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer

From $10,690

Grand Canadian Rockies

From $8,390

• Destinations
• Antarctica & the Arctic
• Australia & New Zealand
• Israel & Jordan
• Latin America
• United States
• Tours & Cruises
• Exclusive Partnership
• Family Journeys
• Guest Favorites
• River Cruises
• Small Groups
• Small Ship Cruises
• Awards and Accolades
• Our History
• Tauck Impact
• The Tauck Difference
• The Taucker Blog
• About Tauck
• Media Center
• Tutorial Video
• Agent Connect
• Register Your Agency
• General Information
• Group Bookings
• Newsletter Sign Up
• Order an eGift Card
• Request a Brochure
• Tauck Forums
• Travel and Health
• Travel Protection
• Travel Updates

Sign Up to Subscribe to Our Emails

• United States
• New Zealand

Rail Trips Across Canada

One of the greatest adventures you can take is one of our iconic rail trips across Canada departing from Vancouver to Toronto and Montreal to Halifax.

We’ve tried, tested and perfected these journeys to include some of the most stunning scenery in the country, from the mountains and ocean of western canada through to the prairies and eclectic towns of the east., complete with customized aspects to suit your own unique style, sit back in a glass-domed viewing car by day and sink into sleep in your cozy quarters by night – more gourmet meals and picturesque views will be waiting again tomorrow..

Showing results for Rail Trips Across Canada

Canada Rail Vacations REVIEWS

"Thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance."

Nick Florida, United States

"From day one we felt comfortable that everything was going to be special."

Mark Australia

"Thanks Canada Rail Vacations for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package."

Lutfu Istanbul

"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

Rita Illinois, United States

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

Mark Sydney, Australia

"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

Pam Illinois, United States

"Thanks again, we would certainly recommend you to our friends in Florida!"

Thomas Florida, United States

"It was like a Christmas tree fairyland. It was snowing pretty good. So coming from Texas in the summer it was really special, almost magical. "

Anita Texas, United States

"We had a wonderful trip and everything was arranged very well!"

Jacqueline Netherlands

"They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. "

Annette California, United States

"The way we were able to customize our trip drive/train and explore on our own was awesome! "

Melinda Nevada, United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

Cherie Arizona, United States

"I would definitely recommend this to anyone - but especially to young parents with families. "

Annabelle Delaware, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated. "

Paul Williams Canada

"One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch. "

Joel Yellin Rochester , United States

"We could not have been more pleased with the trip that was planned by Canada by Design."

Carol Cevolani Petaluma, United States

"We found our experience with Canada by Design to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip."

Marjorie Stock California, United States

"We would recommend trips organized by Canada Rail Vacationsto anyone who is interested in actively exploring parts of the country."

Astrid Ottawa, Canada

"We had the most fabulous trip to our Winter Wonderland in the Canadian Rockies."

Mary California, United States

"I don't know how I will ever thank you all at Canada by Design for making our trip of a lifetime!"

Ann Australia

"From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. "

Manuel United States

"This was an A++ experience! I'll definitely use Canada Rail Vacations for our next trip to Canada."

Kathleen Texas, United States

"We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place."

Anne New Jersey, United States

"Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. I'd happily use Canada by Design again."

Christopher Zurich, Switzerland

"There isn't anyone I would rather use for travel to Canada."

Emily Tennessee, United States

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"I would highly recommend Canada by Design and would certainly use them again when going to another area they service."

Joyce New Jersey, United States

"Every part of our trip was well thought out and there were no hitches."

Di New Zealand

"From start to finish Jennifer was very polite and easy-going as well as professional. She offered suggestions when needed and and was on top of all itinerary adjustments and refunds. "

Kim Pennsylvania, United States

"Thanks again for a well planned and hassle free vacation. We will look forward to future vacations with Discover Holidays. "

Ross Ontario, Canada

"Paulina organized an awesome trip for us which included Vancouver Island and the Rockies."

Peter Australia

"Overall it was a great way to see the country for the most part. "

Lorraine Squamish, Canada

"We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country."

Johanna Oswald Little Rock, AR, United States

"My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design! "

Amanda Central Travel

" We would highly recommend Jennifer and Canada by Design for all of your travel needs. We count ourselves very lucky that we found this 5-star team of travel experts!"

Julie Cass Brisbane, Australia

"It was such a relief to know that we could trust Canada by Design before and during our trip."

Vered Mei-Tal Lutherville, United States

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger Petersburg, Virginia, United States

"Our trip through western Canada planned by Canada by Design was fabulous."

Jeffrey California, United States

"We will be recommending you to others and will use you again when we return for more adventure."

Kay New Zealand

Speak to a Travel Designer

Call +1 604 639 9868 World or Email us

Canadian Trip Ideas

Find your perfect canadian train vacation.

Our Canadian Insiders are experts at crafting personalized trips for travelers looking to discover the best of Canada. Pick from our trips below and we’ll help you create an unforgettable experience.

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

Or call us toll free

The 8 Coolest Train Trips You Can Take

All aboard!

With air travel continuing to be more and more unstable, many are reverting to the old ways of transportation for their next getaway— road trips , cruises, and, yes, train travel . Both in the United States and worldwide, there are many scenic routes that are worth the lengthier journey. Imagine hopping on and off a train between vineyards in Napa, ascending more than 10,000 feet for a stellar view of one of the world’s most famous mountains, or enjoying a murder mystery-themed train that doesn't skimp on either luxury or entertainment.

Whatever your preferred journey may be, these eight train trips are definitely bucket list-worthy.

Gornergrat-Bahn

Switzerland is synonymous with train travel, thanks in part to the impeccably clean coaches, reliably accurate timetables, and striking landscapes found in every region. Visit Zermatt, a car-free village at the base of the Matterhorn. While the city itself offers an impressive view of the mountain, a ride aboard the Gornergrat-Bahn climbs more than 10,000 feet into the Alps for an even better view. From here, you can view glaciers, ski runs, and the amazing Alps as far as the eye can see, plus enjoy immersive experiences, an onsite restaurant, and more.

British Pullman

Belmond trains are in a class of luxury all their own, and while any route is sure to memorable, this England-based journey transports passengers back to the 1950s. While sipping champagne and enjoying a five-course meal, things begin to seem amiss as costumed actors wander the cars adding to the mystery. Spend your time both enjoying the Kent countryside and helping solve a murder in this clever immersive experience.

The Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West

The Rocky Mountaineer operates luxury train routes throughout the Rocky Mountains in both the United States and Canada. You can’t go wrong with any journey, but the “ First Passage to the West ” is extra special. Beginning in Vancouver, passengers can see snow-capped mountains and glistening waters before routing through the lakes in Kamloops. Ultimately, passengers arrive in Banff National Park and the beautiful Lake Louise.

GoldenPass Express

Switzerland has no shortage of stunning routes, but the brand new GoldenPass Express journey shouldn’t be missed. Connecting the Interlaken region (which is largely German) to Montreux (which is more French), the train introduces innovation in both technology and design, as well as a new passenger class. The Prestige Class includes seats that heat, recline, and even swivel so passengers can change their view. The route is included with the popular Swiss Travel Pass.

Napa Valley Wine Train

You’ll need to leave the keys behind during a visit to Napa Valley’s historic vineyards, so the Wine Train has your transportation covered. Board a 100 year old train car for a six-hour journey through the valley, stopping at a handful of prominent vineyards for tastings along the way. While on board, enjoy a welcome glass of bubbles, a four-course meal, and plush interiors while cruising through stunning landscapes.

Eurostar from London to Paris

The innovation of this trip alone earns it a spot on the list. While the interiors may be comparable to a commuter airplane, the high-speed journey connects two bustling cities in a trip that takes just over two hours. The journey is possible thanks to the Channel Tunnel, which opened in 1994 and burrows 75 meters underneath the English Channel. At 31.5 miles long, it’s the world’s longest undersea tunnel.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita

A tale as old as time, the Orient Express began operation in 1883, charming travelers with its unparalleled decor and quality dining options. While a replicated experience won’t be available until 2025, climb aboard the La Dolce Vita journey through Italy operated by the same company. Destination options include stops in Venice, Rome, Siena, Portofino, Montalcino, and more.

Hiram Bingham

The Hiram Bingham train from Belmond is an ultra-lux way to travel to the Lost City of the Incas. Beginning in Cusco, Peru, traveling through the Sacred Valley, this roundtrip adventure ultimately arrives at the entrance of Machu Picchu. You'll also enjoy a cocktail, brunch and gourmet Peruvian lunch, as well as stunning views both in the early morning and evening.

Kellie Walton is a freelance writer based in Nashville, Tennessee. When she’s not eating and adventuring her way around the world, she’s busy telling stories related to all things travel – including city guides, hotel and restaurant recommendations, travel hacks and tales of her own adventures (and misadventures).

Get Away to Atlanta's Bellyard

Stay in a Rice Krispies Themed Re-Treat Suite

The 18 Best New Orleans Hotels

26 of the Best Things to Do in Fort Worth, Texas

What to Do During the State Fair of Texas

Pawhuska, OK: The Pioneer Woman Weekend Getaway

What to Do at the Airport to Pass the TIme

This Walmart Bell Tent is the Budget Buy of Summer

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

Vintage Beach Photos Show Summer Fun Is Timeless

10 Beautiful North Carolina Resorts in the Country

A Summer Weekend in Ontario's Prince Edward County

• Tour Operators
• Destinations
• Hotels & Resorts
• Agent Feedback
• Deals & Incentives
• On Location
• Industry Experts
• Sphere – HomeBased
• Digital Editions
• Subscribe today!

• Hotels and Resorts
• Types of Travel
• Subscribe Now

Canada’s transport minister to meet with Via Rail after passengers stranded 10 hours

Post date: Sep 3 2024

Date: Sep 3 2024

By: The Canadian Press

MONTREAL — Canada’s transport minister said he is determined to get to the bottom of a recent train delay that left VIA Rail passengers stranded for about 10 hours in Quebec over the long weekend.

Pablo Rodriguez said he is meeting with VIA Rail leadership this week.

“Passengers deserve better,” Rodriguez said Sunday on X.

VIA Rail confirmed that passengers were stuck for 10 hours on Saturday when a train broke down between Montreal and Quebec City after experiencing two consecutive mechanical issues.

The company said no buses were available in the region to offer alternative transportation.

Electricity, air conditioning and washrooms were shut down at times to allow for repairs and coupling with another train, the company said.

But it insisted that passengers were offered beverages and snacks throughout the day, and that a meal was delivered on board with additional water in the evening.

The fire department was eventually called to help transfer passengers from one train to another, with passengers reaching their destination 10 hours late.

VIA Rail said it is also investigating after an employee took away a passenger’s phone during this time, and appropriate measures will be taken following a review.

“We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that all passengers are treated with respect and dignity,” the company said in a statement Sunday.

It says it offers its deepest apologies for the inconvenience caused to passengers and will provide a full refund to anyone affected.

“WE NO LONGER FELT SAFE ON THE TRAIN”

Chip Malt was in Quebec over the long weekend to celebrate his father’s 70th birthday in the province’s capital, and said he boarded a VIA Rail train from Montreal to Quebec City on Saturday.

But the expected three-hour ride ended up being a nearly 14-hour journey after passengers were stranded for 10 hours in the “middle of nowhere” following two train breakdowns, said Malt.

He said people were trying to find train exits and were calling Ubers, taxis and car services to get them out but they were so secluded they “were without options.”

“It’s my first experience on VIA Rail, and will probably be my last experience on VIA Rail,” he said Monday in an interview from his home in Austin, Texas. “It was like being in prison.”

Malt said snacks were delivered one hour and three hours into the train delay, but they eventually ran out of food and water. “They came around with a jug of water and they’re like ‘Is anyone dehydrated? This is the last of our water.’”

At that point the washroom also broke, he said.

Around the eight-hour mark people were standing to stretch their legs, including Malt, who said he was giving his wife space because she was forced to do a scheduled job interview on the train.

Malt said that’s when an employee “barged in” and “pushed a woman into the wall” as he went by demanding people to take their seats.

“He started screaming at this lady and that’s when people started to film, including myself, and I was standing right next to him,” he said. “As soon as he saw that I was filming he leaned over and snatched my phone.”

VIA Rail said it is investigating the exchange, and appropriate measures will be taken following a review.

With water gone, Malt said staff gave people beer and vodka. He said staff also tried to get passengers to participate in yoga breaths to get them to relax, which ended up frustrating the passengers.

At one point some of the passengers, including Malt, considered breaking windows to escape. But he said they were surrounded by a construction zone so even if they did get off the train they would have had to scale fences and cross concrete and tar just to get to a side of a highway, he said.

Malt said staff provided no information about why the train broke down or who was coming to help, and he said they kept repeating the same statement that they had “no further information at this time.”

In a statement Monday, VIA Rail vehemently denied giving people alcohol. It also insisted it provided updates every 30 minutes to passengers “even if the update was only to let people know there was no change to the situation or that the repairs continued.”

“This is unfortunately often perceived as ‘no updates,’” the company said Monday.

VIA Rail eventually positioned another passenger train next to theirs on a parallel track. The fire department was called in to help passengers leap from one train to the other, Malt said, and pizza was brought in.

But because the second train had passengers on it, many people had to stand as the train finally reached Quebec City.

Malt said his American family eventually got to celebrate his dad’s 70th birthday, and that Quebec City lives up to the hype.

But he noted many of the passengers on the train pointed out it was brand new, and he questions their safety based on his experience.

He also said the company is supposed to be trained to deal with delays, but it was the staff who was “aggressive and causing problems.”

“We no longer felt safe on the train anymore,” he said.

Tags: Lead Story, VIA Rail

Over 200 Via Rail passengers stranded for 10 hours due to mechanical issues

Two consecutive mechanical issues were the cause of a delay from Montreal to Quebec City on Saturday, according to Via Rail. Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press

Carmel Tanaka’s trip from Montreal to Quebec City was supposed to take around 3½ hours but it was 14 hours before she finally arrived at the station.

Ms. Tanaka was one of 214 passengers stranded for 10 hours on a Via Rail journey on Saturday, and for some of the time she and her fellow passengers did not have access to working washrooms or water.

“It was pretty bonkers,” said Ms. Tanaka, who was travelling to meet a long-lost cousin.

Two consecutive mechanical issues were the cause of the delay, according to Via Rail, which added that no other options for moving passengers existed. Shuttle buses, for example, were unavailable in the region and exiting a train – away from a station – is dangerous and a last resort, it said.

The company said passengers were offered beverages and snacks throughout the day, and that a meal was delivered toward the end of the trip. But there was a 90-minute period when the engine was shut off because of repair attempts. During this time, there was no running water, no air conditioning and the toilets did not flush.

As the delay went on, the irritation built, said Ms. Tanaka, adding that it hit a boiling point when an employee snatched a phone from a passenger.

Eventually another train did arrive, at which point the fire department was called to help with the transfer.

Ms. Tanaka said the situation was not “life or death” but that it was “extremely frustrating” to be trapped in the carriage, sitting for hours unable to stretch her legs or go outside.

She said she was also upset because she was only going to be in Quebec City for two days. “I missed a whole day to spend with my cousin.”

On Sunday, federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez said he will meet with Via Rail leadership to learn about how the delay happened.

“This is unacceptable and we will get to the bottom of this,” Mr. Rodriguez said on X. “I’m meeting with VIA’s leadership this week. Passengers deserve better.”

Via Rail has offered full refunds and a 100-per-cent travel credit to passengers aboard train 622.

“VIA Rail understands this unfortunate situation impacted the travel plan of its passengers and offers its deepest apologies for the inconvenience caused,” the company said in a statement to The Globe and Mail.

The event was extremely challenging but to be expected, said Jonathan English, a fellow at Marron Institute of Urban Management at New York University. Mr. English lives in Toronto.

Only 59 per cent of Via’s trains were on time in 2023, according to reporting from The Globe. Mr. English said this is partly because much of Via Rail’s infrastructure is dated and prone to mechanical failure. For example, a few of the trains on the Montreal to Quebec route are 50 to 70 years old, he said.

Minimizing delays will require updating the fleet, said Mr. English, and fortunately this work is under way. In 2022, Via Rail started to deploy a new fleet of trains for the corridor between Quebec City and Windsor.

However, while this should cut down on delays caused by mechanical issues, other delays on Canada’s passenger rail lines will continue, said Barry Prentice, a transportation professor at the University of Manitoba.

This is largely because, unlike passenger rail service in most European countries, Via Rail does not own the rail tracks. Most of the rail line used is owned by Canadian National Railway Co. This means that passenger rail is constantly stuck behind heavier and slower freight trains.

While the delay on Saturday was not related to shared tracks, Via Rail still needs passenger-specific rail lines, alongside an updated train fleet, said Prof. Prentice.

“If you want to spend the money, you could have a beautiful train system,” he said. “But you can’t just adapt the old train sets and use freight rail lines and expect the same kind of reliability.”

In 2022, the federal government formed VIA HFR Inc., which has the mandate to develop and implement high-frequency passenger rail service in the 1,000-kilometre corridor that connects Toronto and Quebec City.

Ottawa has yet to approve funding for the plan.

With reports from The Canadian Press

Report an editorial error

Report a technical issue

Editorial code of conduct

Follow related authors and topics

• Kate Helmore
• Canadian National Railway (CN)
• Public Administration and Government
• Quebec City
• Transportation Industry

Authors and topics you follow will be added to your personal news feed in Following .

Interact with The Globe

• Join Our Newsletter
• Post a Listing
• Your Listings
• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications
• Travel News

Transport minister asks for report, reforms after Via Rail passengers stranded

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

OTTAWA — A tourist visiting Canada is questioning the safety of Via Rail after he says his phone was snatched from him by an employee when he was documenting a train delay that left passengers stranded as they ran out of food, water and working toilets.

Canada's transport minister has now asked Via Rail to provide an independent report, improve training and review procedures following the train delay over the weekend.

Chip Malt was in Quebec over the long weekend to celebrate his father's 70th birthday in the province's capital, and said he boarded a Via Rail train from Montreal to Quebec City on Saturday.

But the expected three-hour ride ended up being a nearly 14-hour journey after passengers were stranded for 10 hours in the "middle of nowhere" following two train breakdowns, said Malt.

He said people were trying to find train exits and were calling Ubers, taxis and car services to get them out but they were so secluded they "were without options."

"It's my first experience on Via Rail, and will probably be my last experience on Via Rail," he said Monday in an interview from his home in Austin, Texas.

"It was like being in prison."

Canada's Transport Minister spoke with Via Rail executives on Tuesday "to tell them the way passengers were treated on Saturday was unacceptable," said Laurent de Casanove, spokesperson to the minister.

"To make sure this doesn’t happen again, VIA Rail has been asked to provide an independent report on what happened, improve training for their employees, and review their breakdown procedures," he said.

That includes keeping passengers "better informed" and making sure they have access to basic services and other options to reach their destination quickly if there’s a long delay.

"Canadians deserve to have reliable passenger rail that meets their needs," Rodriguez's office said.

On Sunday Via Rail issued a statement apologizing for the "inconvenience" to passengers. It confirmed they were stuck for 10 hours on Saturday when a train broke down between Montreal and Quebec City after experiencing two consecutive mechanical issues.

The company said no buses were available in the region to offer alternative transportation. Electricity, air conditioning and washrooms were shut down at times to allow for repairs and coupling with another train, the company said.

"We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that all passengers are treated with respect and dignity," the company said.

Malt said snacks were delivered one hour and three hours into the train delay, but they eventually ran out of food and water.

"They came around with a jug of water and they're like 'Is anyone dehydrated? This is the last of our water.'"

At that point the washroom also broke, he said.

Around the eight-hour mark people were standing to stretch their legs, including Malt, who said he was giving his wife space because she was forced to do a scheduled job interview on the train.

Malt said that's when an employee "barged in" and "pushed a woman into the wall" as he went by demanding people to take their seats.

"He started screaming at this lady and that's when people started to film, including myself, and I was standing right next to him," he said. "As soon as he saw that I was filming he leaned over and snatched my phone."

Via Rail said it is investigating the exchange, and appropriate measures will be taken following a review.

With water gone, Malt said staff gave people beer and vodka. He said staff also tried to get passengers to participate in yoga breaths to get them to relax, which ended up frustrating the passengers.

At one point some of the passengers, including Malt, considered breaking windows to escape. But he said they were surrounded by a construction zone so even if they did get off the train they would have had to scale fences and cross concrete and tar just to get to a side of a highway, he said.

Malt said staff provided no information about why the train broke down or who was coming to help, and he said they kept repeating the same statement that they had "no further information at this time."

In a statement Monday, Via Rail vehemently denied giving people alcohol. It also insisted it provided updates every 30 minutes to passengers "even if the update was only to let people know there was no change to the situation or that the repairs continued."

"This is unfortunately often perceived as 'no updates,'" the company said Monday.

Via Rail eventually positioned another passenger train next to theirs on a parallel track. The fire department was called in to help passengers leap from one train to the other, Malt said, and pizza was brought in.

But because the second train had passengers on it, many people had to stand as the train finally reached Quebec City.

Malt said his American family eventually got to celebrate his dad's 70th birthday, and that Quebec City lives up to the hype.

But he noted many of the passengers on the train pointed out it was brand new, and he questions their safety based on his experience.

He also said the company is supposed to be trained to deal with delays, but it was the staff who was "aggressive and causing problems."

"We no longer felt safe on the train anymore," he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 3, 2024.

Mickey Djuric, The Canadian Press

Minister of Transport Pablo Rodriguez speaks to the media at the federal Liberal cabinet retreat in Halifax on Monday, August 26, 2024. Canada's transport minister has asked Via Rail to provide an independent report regarding a train delay over the weekend that left passengers stranded for 10 hours. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Kelly Clark

• See a typo/mistake?
• Have a story/tip?

This has been shared 0 times

More travel news.