VIA Rail Ocean Train: Montreal-Halifax Guide
THE OCEAN TRAIN BASICS:
• Route: Montreal - Halifax (1,346 km)
• Journey Time: 22 hours
• Frequency: 3 times per week each direction
• Train Numbers: #14 eastbound, #15 westbound
• Service Level: Long-distance overnight service
• Operating Since: 1904 (120+ years)
Schedule and Frequency
2024 OPERATING SCHEDULE:
• Montreal to Halifax: Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
• Halifax to Montreal: Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
• Departure Time Montreal: 7:00 PM
• Arrival Time Halifax: 5:30 PM next day
• Departure Time Halifax: 12:30 PM
• Arrival Time Montreal: 9:30 AM next day
Route and Major Stops
KEY STATIONS EASTBOUND:
• Montreal Central (QC): 7:00 PM departure
• Quebec City (QC): 11:15 PM
• Rivière-du-Loup (QC): 1:40 AM
• Campbellton (NB): 5:45 AM
• Miramichi (NB): 7:50 AM
• Moncton (NB): 10:30 AM
• Amherst (NS): 12:15 PM
• Truro (NS): 2:15 PM
• Halifax (NS): 5:30 PM arrival
Accommodation Classes
ECONOMY CLASS:
• Seating: Reclining seats with leg rests
• Price Range: $150-250 CAD
• Amenities: Reading lights, fold-down tables
• Meals: Purchase from café car
• Baggage: 2 carry-on, 2 checked bags included
SLEEPER PLUS CLASS:
• Accommodation: Private cabin with bed
• Price Range: $400-600 CAD
• Cabin Types: Upper/lower berth, bedroom
• Meals: All meals included in dining car
• Amenities: Private washroom, shower access
PRESTIGE CLASS (Premium):
• Accommodation: Spacious cabin with double bed
• Price Range: $1,200-1,800 CAD
• Features: En-suite bathroom with shower
• Service: Concierge service, premium meals
• Exclusive: Access to business lounge
Onboard Services
DINING OPTIONS:
• Dining Car: Full-service restaurant with Atlantic cuisine
• Café Car: Light meals, snacks, beverages
• Menu: Features Maritime specialties and Canadian dishes
• Hours: Dining car open for breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Reservations: Recommended for dining car
Scenic Highlights
NOTABLE SCENIC SECTIONS:
• St. Lawrence River: Montreal to Quebec City
• Matapédia Valley: Remote wilderness landscapes
• Miramichi River: New Brunswick forests
• Tantramar Marshes: Unique wetland ecosystem
• Cobequid Bay: Approaching Nova Scotia
• Best Views: Right side eastbound, left side westbound
Booking and Pricing
FARE STRUCTURE:
• Peak Season: June-September, holidays
• Off-Peak: October-May (excluding holidays)
• Advance Purchase: 3-7 days for best prices
• Senior Discount: 10% off for 60+ years
• Student Discount: Available with valid ID
• Group Rates: 10+ passengers
What to Pack
PACKING RECOMMENDATIONS:
• Comfortable Clothing: Layers for temperature changes
• Personal Items: Toiletries, medications
• Entertainment: Books, tablets, music
• Snacks: Personal favorites (dining available)
• Documents: Photo ID, tickets, reservations
• Cash/Cards: For purchases onboard
Station Information
MONTREAL CENTRAL STATION:
• Address: 895 Rue de la Gauchetière Ouest
• Metro Access: Bonaventure station
• Amenities: Restaurants, shops, parking
• Check-in: 30 minutes before departure
HALIFAX STATION:
• Address: 1161 Hollis Street
• Downtown Location: Walking distance to attractions
• Taxi/Transit: Readily available
• Parking: Limited street parking nearby
Travel Tips
INSIDER TIPS:
• Book Early: Sleeper accommodations sell out quickly
• Right Side: Better views eastbound Montreal-Halifax
• Dining Reservations: Make them early in journey
• Power Outlets: Limited, bring portable charger
• WiFi: Not available on The Ocean
• Cell Service: Sporadic in remote areas
Connecting Services
CONNECTIONS IN HALIFAX:
• Maritime Bus: Cape Breton, Yarmouth connections
• Halifax Transit: City bus system
• Car Rentals: Multiple agencies downtown
• Ferry Services: Dartmouth, Digby connections
CONNECTIONS IN MONTREAL:
• VIA Rail: Toronto, Ottawa connections
• Montreal Metro: Comprehensive subway system
• Bus Terminal: Adjacent to Central Station
• Pierre Trudeau Airport: 45-minute train ride
Accessibility Services
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES:
• Wheelchair Access: Designated spaces in economy
• Accessible Washrooms: Available on train
• Assistance: Staff help with boarding/baggage
• Service Animals: Welcome onboard
• Advance Notice: 48 hours recommended
• Station Access: Both terminals wheelchair accessible
Seasonal Considerations
BEST TRAVEL SEASONS:
• Fall (September-October): Stunning foliage views
• Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, peak season
• Winter (December-February): Snow-covered landscapes
• Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds
Alternative Transportation
COMPARISON WITH OTHER OPTIONS:
• Flying: 1.5 hours, $200-500, no scenery
• Driving: 14 hours, gas + accommodation costs
• Bus: 18-20 hours, $100-200, less comfortable
• Train: 22 hours, $150-1800, most scenic
• The Ocean: Unique overnight experience
Booking Information
HOW TO BOOK:
• VIA Rail Website: viarail.ca
• Phone: 1-888-842-7245
• Mobile App: VIA Rail Canada app
• Travel Agents: Full-service booking
• Station Counters: Limited locations
Cancellation and Changes
BOOKING FLEXIBILITY:
• Cancellation: Fees vary by fare type
• Changes: Possible with fare difference
• Refunds: Processing time 7-10 business days
• Travel Insurance: Recommended for trip protection
• Weather Delays: VIA Rail not liable for missed connections
• No-Show: Full forfeit of ticket value