jp1822 wrote:Should have taken the Skeena's Touring Class when the Panorama car is offered. Night and day experience. Food and beverages provided for this experience, much like Rocky Mountaineer.
The food really wasn't very good when I was on. Much better value merely booking a departure from Jasper or Prince Rupert that doesn't have the Panorama car. When this is the case, you can go to the Park car for free for the dome experience.
Its not that bad of a ride in Economy either.
Prices for the "Touring" service are up quite a bit this year. Jasper-Prince Rupert was $400-$450 or so last year. The VIA site is quoting at closer to $800 this year. Even in Economy, the Jasper tour operators book up lots of the train until Dunster or Robson, but as soon as that station is hit, the (mostly Chinese) tourists empty onto their buses back to Jasper, and Economy runs empty. If you try to buy a 'through' seat in Economy, it can be expensive as the cheap fares are sold out
Also, finding a room in Jasper during the summer can be incredibly expensive (my room was $320/night and must've been a 2 mile walk from the station!). And there's no same-day connection with the Canadian, so you'll have to spend at least one night there.
I know that service quality and such changes over time, but there was nothing like enjoying a shrimp cocktail with a glass of wine while gazing out the panoramic windows as we passed by Yellowhead Lake and watched caribou sporadically show up alongside the opposite side of the train. You get to see this sooo much better in the Panorama car and of course the food is served at your seat by an attendant. VIA needs to market this route better than what it does as it is really a hidden jewel. I had two seats to myself while onboard, and sat about 3/4 of the way back from the front of the car. Ideal spot!
Agree completely that its very much under-appreciated. When I do it again, I will probably book a stopover at Terrace, rent a car, and visit the lava pits at Nis'ga Provincial Park. Maybe a white water rafting trip as well. There's a lot of eco-tourism potential in that area.