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.
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