Most Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to some of the more common questions we receive. If you do not find the answer you are looking for below, please feel free to contact us directly.
Rocky Mountaineer
General Information
- What is the best time to travel through the Canadian Rockies?
- How far do I travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
- Does the Rocky Mountaineer have sleeper cars?
- How can I get updated information on your tours?
- What are the advantages to travelling these routes by rail?
- What speed does the train travel?
- Is smoking permitted on the train and in the hotel rooms?
- Are souvenirs available for purchase?
- How long has Rocky Mountaineer Vacations been in business?
- Is Rocky Mountaineer Vacations more than a train?
- Why does the Rocky Mountaineer only operate between April and October?
- What is the “Ice Explorer” described in the tour itineraries?
- What is the Victoria Clipper?
- What is the GST?
- What is Fuel Surcharge?
Before you Travel
- What will the weather be like and what should I pack?
- Can I add an Alaskan Cruise to my rail vacation?
- Are you able to handle special group requests?
- Can children travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
- Do your facilities accommodate people with special needs and/or disabilities?
- Can I arrange for a car rental or hotel in Vancouver or Calgary?
- What currency should I carry when travelling in Canada and on the train?
- What meals do I receive on a meal plan?
- Am I able to bring my pet along?
- Should I plan connecting transportation on the day of the Rocky Mountaineer’s arrival?
- New Passport Requirements
Onboard Experience
- What wildlife will I see?
- Are we able to move within the Rocky Mountaineer?
- Are both the RedLeaf and GoldLeaf coaches accessible by wheelchair?
- Can I use my laptop computer and cell phone on the train?
- Can you address my dietary concerns onboard the train?
- Are gratuities included?
General Information
1. What is the best time to travel through the Canadian Rockies?
Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, every season offers unique advantages. For instance, June is 'Springtime in the Rockies' with snow on the mountaintops and flowers beginning to bloom. April, May and October offer tremendous savings.
2. How far do we travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
About 450 kilometres (280 miles) each day—all in daylight. Look forward to spending two full relaxing days onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
3. Does the Rocky Mountaineer have sleeper cars?
No. Our daylight rail tours through the Canadian Rockies are scheduled to show you all of the spectacular scenery. After a day onboard the train, you overnight in either Kamloops or Quesnel, British Columbia.
4. How can I get updated information on your tours?
Your travel professional is a great source and, of course, we ensure that our web site has the latest information and it is a great trip planning resource for you.
5. What are the advantages to travelling these routes by rail?
There are many unique features to rail travel. You will enjoy an extremely comfortable seat with ample legroom and have the freedom to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air while in the vestibules. Combined with attentive service and outstanding commentary, this type of leisurely paced travel will ensure that you know you are on vacation. One of the greatest advantages, however, is the ability to travel through areas simply not accessible by foot, car or motorcoach. The routes we travel on are described as engineering marvels and as we follow rushing rivers, pass beside towering waterfalls and ride through spectacular river canyons, you will understand why. To truly appreciate the nature and scenery in this part of the world, the Rocky Mountaineer offers the very best vantage point.
6. What speed does the train travel?
The advantage of our train is that we are able to slow down at the most scenic areas to offer you the best viewing and camera opportunities. We call it Kodak® speed! While there are areas the train reaches up to 90kph (60mph), our average speed is approximately 50 kph (30mph).
7. Is smoking permitted on the train and in the hotel rooms?
To ensure the preservation of the fragile environment of the areas in which we travel and for the comfort of all guests and employees, there is no smoking onboard Rocky Mountaineer. This includes the vestibules between the coaches and restroom facilities. The hotels do have limited smoking rooms available so please make sure you indicate your preference to the reservations or travel agent when you book your tour.
8. Are souvenirs available for purchase?
A full range of souvenirs are available for purchase onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Your Onboard Attendant will provide you with our souvenir catalogue during the first day on the train. Many items may be viewed in the souvenir cabinets throughout the train. For your convenience, you may also download our Souvenirs catalogue here. Any specific enquiries may be directed to souvenirs@rockymountaineer.com.
9. How long has Rocky Mountaineer Vacations been in business?
2008 represents our nineteenth year of operation and we will be welcoming our one-millionth guest onboard in the spring. Many of our guests have bought a vacation package from us that incorporates the very best of what Canada has to offer. Our motorcoach tours in the Canadian Rockies are offered in state of the art equipment to ensure your comfort and safety.
10. Is Rocky Mountaineer Vacations more than the Rocky Mountaineer train?
Indeed! The two-day all daylight Rocky Mountaineer train trip is a part of what we offer. We are also a vacation provider offering sightseeing, attractions, hotels, rental cars, meal plans, non rail vacations - even your airline ticket can be handled by our friendly reservations agents. We offer one stop shopping for you or your travel agent and can assist in every aspect of planning your Canadian travel experience.
11. Why does the Rocky Mountaineer only operate between April and October?
We offer all daylight tours meaning you stay overnight in comfortable accommodation in Kamloops and Quesnel, the halfway points of the rail journeys. Travelling during this time of the year ensures that we take full advantage of the daylight hours and the spectacular scenery during the time of year when the regions show their full colours.
12. What is the “Ice Explorer” described in the tour itineraries?
The Ice Explorer is an ice and snow terrain vehicle specially designed to tour the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield, offering a 5-kilometre (3-mile) round-trip journey including commentary on the formation of glaciers.
13. What is the Victoria Clipper?
The Victoria Clipper is a fast ferry that travels between Victoria, BC and Seattle’s Pier 69 in under three hours.
14. What is the GST?
The Goods and Services Tax is applicable to all purchases made in Canada. Please refer to Terms & Conditions for more details
15. What is Fuel Surcharge?
Rail Fuel Surcharge
Due to oil prices hitting an all-time high, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations has implemented a fuel surcharge on all Rocky Mountaineer and Whistler Mountaineer bookings made on or after May 15, 2008.
The fuel surcharge is $30 per person for 2-day rail travel on the Rocky Mountaineer and $5 per person, per direction on the Whistler Mountaineer. For bookings prior to May 15, 2008 where a full payment or deposit was made, the fuel surcharge will be waived.
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations has worked hard to internally absorb the increase in oil prices over the past number of years. With the price of oil hitting all-time highs worldwide and no forecast of prices declining in the near future, we can no longer continue to absorb the additional cost.
Helicopter Fuel Surcharge
Due to an increase in fuel costs worldwide, packages which include a helicopter flight or whereby a helicopter flight is substituted in lieu of another tour or in addition to, are subject to an additional fuel surcharge of $15.00 per person, for bookings made on or after May 13, 2008.
Holland America Line's Fuel Surcharge
Due to the continued escalation of fuel costs worldwide, a fuel surcharge of $63.00 per person will be applied to all bookings inclusive of a cruise, made on or after 12 June 2008.
Before you Travel
1. What will the weather be like -and what should I pack?
Temperatures vary significantly depending on location, time of day, and season, from a low of 10°C (50° F) to a high of 30° C (90° F). Kamloops and Quesnel, in particular, may be very warm in the summer. Plan to bring a sweater, slacks, and a light topcoat or raincoat, as well as lightweight summer wear. Pack sturdy comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk in the mountains. Flat-soled shoes should be worn on the train. Comfortable, casual attire is welcomed on the Rocky Mountaineer and many of our guests carry their sunglasses with them onboard the train. In spring and fall, include a light coat or warm jacket if you're travelling to high altitudes. For weather updates and future forecasts in the areas we travel, click here.
2. Can I add an Alaskan Cruise to my rail vacation?
Yes. Thousands of our guests take advantage of the rail and cruise seasons which are very similar. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations offers a selection of Rail & Cruise Vacation Packages in partnership with Holland America Cruise Lines. Please visit our Rail and Cruise section for more details.
3. Are you able to handle special group requests?
Absolutely! If you are looking for a customized itinerary for a group of 10 or more, our Custom Group Consultants will provide you with an opportunity to offer your group a unique and memorable experience. In addition, our Spectacular Meetings and Incentives program lets you discover a unique venue for your business or incentive function. For more information, contact us at groups@rockymountaineer.com or click here.
4. Can children travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Yes. However, the Rocky Mountaineer trip is a minimum of two 9-hour days onboard the train, which may be long for some children.
5. Do your facilities accommodate people with special needs and/or disabilities?
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations will make every effort to meet any special needs, including the requirements of our disabled guests. Some of the Rocky Mountaineer coaches are wheelchair accessible. GoldLeaf Dome Coaches have elevators for guests who have problems using the spiral staircase. Please inform us at the time of booking if any assistance is required.
6. Can I arrange for a car rental or hotel in Vancouver or Calgary?
Absolutely! Please contact our reservations agents on the telephone at 1-877-460-3200 in the USA or Canada or you can email us at reservations@rockymountaineer.com and we would be happy to help you arrange for your car rental needs. As well, we can arrange for extra hotel nights in Canada's West and airfare from your hometown - everything you need to make your Rocky Mountaineer vacation the best ever.
7. What currency should I carry when travelling in Canada and on the train?
The currency used in Canada is Canadian dollars. Transactions onboard the train may be paid with travellers checks, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, JCB and Diner's Card. We also accept US currency at close to the current exchange rate, but we recommend that conversion to Canadian dollars take place prior to the train departure.
8. What meals do I receive on a meal plan?
All breakfast and dinners are included on a Rocky Mountaineer Vacations Meal Plan option. Meals at certain hotel restaurants may be subject to additional surcharge.
9. Am I able to bring my pet along?
Please note that all pets or animals (excluding guide dogs) are prohibited from travelling onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
10. Should I plan connecting transportation on the day of the Rocky Mountaineer’s arrival?
Passenger rail travel in Canada is subject to unforeseen delays. While the Rocky Mountaineer is treated as a priority by the railways it uses, occasional delays do occur. For that reason, we ask that you please do NOT arrange connecting transportation on the day of your scheduled arrival in any destination.
11. New Passport Requirements
Please be advised that effective January 23, 2007, all passengers including Canadian and U.S. citizens will be required to present a valid passport when travelling by air between Canada and the United States. We strongly recommend that all guests are in possession of a passport by January 23, 2007. Information regarding the passport requirements for US travellers is available at www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html. Foreign nationals should contact their governments for further details.
Onboard Experience
1. What wildlife will I see?
There are wonderful opportunities for viewing wildlife from the train and during your stay in the Canadian Rockies including bear, elk, deer, moose, bald eagles, osprey, salmon, mountain goats and bighorn sheep. However, “wildlife are wild” and as such, sightings are never guaranteed. If you do come into contact with animals please act responsibly, maintain a safe distance and never feed any wild animals.
2. Are we able to move within the Rocky Mountaineer?
One of the advantages of train travel is the spacious room afforded to all guests. RedLeaf Service guests are able to move through their own coach and enjoy fresh-air vestibules. Access to the two levels onboard the GoldLeaf dome coaches is limited to those guests reserving GoldLeaf Service.
3. Are both the RedLeaf and GoldLeaf coaches accessible by wheelchair?
We do have wheelchair facilities for both services. There are areas where a wheelchair can be secured in place and have very easy access to the wheelchair accessible washrooms. Wheelchair lifters are available at all stations and the GoldLeaf dome coaches are equipped with interior ADA-style elevators. All we ask is that we are informed at the time of booking of the extent of the disability so we can ensure that all plans are in place to ensure the vacation experience is a pleasant one.
4. Can I use my laptop computer and cell phone on the train?
We do not have plugs at the seats for laptop use. Depending on your battery life, we suggest that you charge you computer at night during your hotel stays for use onboard the train. It goes without saying that you will have a better chance of seeing all the scenery without working on your laptop computer. Throughout much of the train route, the train will be out of cell phone range, however, cell phones may be easily used in the major areas that our tours visit.
5. Can you address my dietary concerns onboard the train?
Absolutely. All we ask is that you provide your booking agent or Rocky Mountaineer Vacations with 72 hours notice regarding your specific need. We will do everything possible to make your trip on the train memorable.
6. Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in prices (unless indicated) for Onboard attendants, driver-guides, transfers, hotel porterage or Red Cap porters. You may, however, choose to recognize good service in a tangible manner at your discretion.
Whistler Mountaineer ™
General Information
1. How long is the Whistler Mountaineer train trip?
The Whistler Mountaineer train excursion is approximately three-hours and covers a distance of 120 kilometres (74 miles).
2. How will I get to the rail station?
Motorcoach transfers between your Vancouver or Whistler hotel and the rail stations in North Vancouver and Whistler are included on all Whistler Mountaineer bookings.
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