VIA Rail's Ocean

Come along for a journey through Eastern Canada's incredible scenery while riding aboard VIA Rail's Ocean. This train offers an unforgettable overnight travel experience, complete with onboard nuances that recall memories of yesteryear and fantastic views of the Maritime region.

The Ocean departs from Montreal three times a week, year-round, in pursuit of the East Coast. Urban scenes vanish into the backdrop as the train proceeds through the communities that line the St. Lawrence River and past Monteregian Hills, unique land formations found in the St. Lawrence River Valley. The train continues through the Matapédia Valley and past the Matapédia River before the Chaleur Bay comes into view. With the gorgeous bay's passing comes a change in direction; the route begins its southerly descent through New Brunswick before entering Nova Scotia. Splendid scenes of coastal lighthouses and fishing communities surround the tracks. After approximately 21 hours of travel, the trip concludes as the Ocean pulls into the station in Halifax. Guests who select this journey are treated to views of 28 diverse towns and cities as the route proceeds from Canada's interior to the coastline. For convenience, travelers can also select to begin their journey in Halifax and follow the course to Montreal.

Though not operated by the same line for the entirety of its career, the Ocean is one of the longest-running, continually operational passenger trains in North America. The line began in 1904 when it was operated by the Intercolonial Railway of Canada and called the Ocean Limited. Many rail lines hosted this Montreal-Halifax line from its opening until 1978, when VIA Rail Canada absorbed it. Today, the Ocean continues to change and evolve to meet long-distance travelers' needs and exemplify the excellence for which VIA Rail is known.