Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer
4.5
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About
Rocky Mountaineer offers four unique rail routes in Western Canada, Canadian Rockies, and the American Southwest. See spectacular views of iconic, untouched landscapes from the comfort of our glass-dome trains while enjoying world-class service from our onboard team. Our destinations include Vancouver, Whistler, Jasper, Banff, and Lake Louise on our Canadian routes and Denver, Moab, and Glenwood Springs on our US route.
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busyqueenbee2018
Lake Worth, FL2 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Family
After of months planning we decided on the Rocky Mountaineer. I booked the trip when they were running a Good Friday special. I took a screen shot of the confirmation. Our down payment was processed. I received a confirmation email from American Express. We were thrilled. This trip had been on our bucket list for a long time. We were going to meet up with friends and in the process of booking our flights. I expected to receive a confirmation email from rockymountaineer. When I didn’t I called. Long story short.. there was a computer glitch and the tickets were not booked. They couldn’t rebook because it was sold out. They could put us in a different level and we would to book our hotels in one location. They acted as if it was no big deal. If the customer service was good they would offered us to go another time and upgrade to compensate for what happened. Instead they offered a $100 credit. The cost of the trip was $22k. If I hadn’t call them we would have booked our flights etc and would thought we were good to go. We never would found out until we have to pay the balance next year. Horrible customer service.
Written December 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
C Alison W
Perth, Australia16 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Fantastic experience. We booked on Goldleaf and had overhead windows to see the sky and mountains as we travelled. We travelled all day for 2 days with breakfast and lunch served on board as well as an interesting commentary. Getting into Kamloops and Banff so late at night meant that there was very little choice of where to have dinner. Kamloops hotel was basic and right on the freeway so we did not have a good sleep.
Written November 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
maple s
1 contribution
Aug. 2023 • Family
My trip got cancelled due to the fire in August 2023 trip by RM.
They notified us 1.5days before the departure.
I understand the situation which is the non-predictable, but state of emergency was issued on the 18th and our departure day was on the 22nd. There was 4 days to go however they made a decision to cancel the trip 1.5days before the departure day.
Calls and emails didn’t reach them while we were in the unsure situations for travel as well.
Then RM emailed us that they dont offer the refund which we paid around $4000. They offered the travel credit for 2024-2025 instead.
Who knows if we can join the tour in the future🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️also some live in overseas I believe.
I feel it is not a fair that they dont refund any money to us as the tour even didnt take a place.
Credits don’t work for some people.
This is the worst disappointed scenario.
Fortunately I bought the expensive insurance 2days for $500 for 2ppl as RM recommended.
(Just in case I bought.)
I skip the insurance policy now here ( please check it by yourself) however it took forever to get money back from the insurance company even if the reason of the cancellation meets their coverage🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
I handed out all right documents, but my claim was still denied once.
People, Dont give up to claim, mine took 3months. I made several times calls, they kept requiring me to send the same documents, make explanations to proof this🤦🏻♀️
I highlighted the relevant part from the policy and send back to them, finally they approved my claim.
I don’t quite know how the trip is good or not as I couldn’t join.However I won’t use RM anymore from my experiences. It is too risky. it’s ended up quite tired and disappointed way.
I strongly recommend to customers to buy the insurance in case you got cancelled your tour and once you paid the trip fee, RM never refund.
Insurance may the only way to get back your lost money from them in the future.
Good luck.
Written November 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephen W
Nottingham, UK259 contributions
Jun. 2023 • Couples
We did the 2 day Vancouver to Banff leg in Gold Leaf.
It is something I have looked forward to ticking off teh bucket list for as long as I can remember.
Every single aspect lived up to my best imagination. Slick service, comfy seats, lovely staff, great views, awesome food.
It is something I have looked forward to ticking off teh bucket list for as long as I can remember.
Every single aspect lived up to my best imagination. Slick service, comfy seats, lovely staff, great views, awesome food.
Written November 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie S
Columbus, OH67 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
We booked the silver plan 2-day ride from Jasper to Vancouver. From the moment we stepped in our car, the staff took care of us and all we had to do was relax, look out the windows at the scenery and wildlife, enjoy beverage and breakfast then morning drink and snack, lunch and beverage then afternoon drink and snack! The speed of the train allows you to easily walk through the cabin, use the restrooms, go to the outside viewing platforms, take photographs, take a nap if you wanted (but you won't - too much to see!!) Spent the night in Kamloops - charter buses took us from the train to the hotel where our luggage was ALREADY in our room. Buses returned the next morning to make the return trip to the train. **You order from the menu for each meal and the chefs prepare your choice on the train. Delicious and fresh!! Beverage selection is very adequate - coffee, tea, sodas, alcoholic.
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jennrussia
Germany27 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Family
Firstly I would like to acknowledge that our service experience was really quite good for the trip - hotel pickup and drop off, train attendants, food on the train - all really lovely. The scenery was also really beautiful and it was nice to be able to just enjoy that with the occasional informative blurb from the train hosts. Drinks, snacks and planned meals were bountiful and of good quality.
But beyond that, a few caveats (and suggestions in case RM leadership ever read these):
In the planning phase we watched some YouTube experiences, and none of them highlighted the negative elements…so don’t be fooled into thinking there aren’t any. Every amazing experience in life also has drawbacks, and this is no different. Just don’t lose sight of that in your planning process.
A) SO many delays on the rails - RM never takes priority over cargo trains and you can find yourself idling on a siding for significant periods of time which impacts what you see in daylight vice darkness as well as how long your full day extends to.
B) the delays for rail priority change your schedule and arrival time at mid-points….and the dinner hour will have come and gone as well as evening snack time and a reasonable bed time for some - and you’ll not be at your hotel yet. There was no reasonable dinner available either night- despite having had lunch at 1300 and not getting to the hotel until nearly 10pm. (A wine “tasting” with two crackers and a smear of cheese spread was offered). Both nights on our trip we rolled into our hotel no more than 10-15 minutes before closing time at hotel restaurants (certainly the most convenient/attainable meal option for seniors who don’t want to walk a few blocks at nearly 10 pm in the dark seeking bar food) and understandably no amount of coaxing will have that facility extend their hours to accommodate.
C) Despite the late arrivals, your morning departure time is VERY early. A 0555 meeting time in the morning is actually earlier than my working day departures from my home to fight the commute….it does not say leisurely to anyone!
D) no matter how you slice it, up to 15 hours in a train seat is going to become uncomfortable. Heated, reclining (somewhat), adjustable….but still a bit thin on actual seat padding. Delays on the rails can turn an expected long day into an endurance test.
Honestly, I would strongly recommend that RM plan to provide an evening meal…even if that were to be pre-made sandwiches in a bag lunch…because it seems that it is extremely likely that delays will make planned arrival significantly later than predicted.
Also- what I learned from this is that I could have seen very similar landscape in a car along Rt 1 which is almost entirely parallel to the tracks for most of the journey…but with more control over timing and the chance to focus on things that are interesting to me. There were some interesting locations that we shot past while the train was moving well but we had no chance to explore. But I’m in my 50s and comfortable with self-organizing travel around the world…so for someone who just wants to show up with no plans or effort, this would be a good option.
But beyond that, a few caveats (and suggestions in case RM leadership ever read these):
In the planning phase we watched some YouTube experiences, and none of them highlighted the negative elements…so don’t be fooled into thinking there aren’t any. Every amazing experience in life also has drawbacks, and this is no different. Just don’t lose sight of that in your planning process.
A) SO many delays on the rails - RM never takes priority over cargo trains and you can find yourself idling on a siding for significant periods of time which impacts what you see in daylight vice darkness as well as how long your full day extends to.
B) the delays for rail priority change your schedule and arrival time at mid-points….and the dinner hour will have come and gone as well as evening snack time and a reasonable bed time for some - and you’ll not be at your hotel yet. There was no reasonable dinner available either night- despite having had lunch at 1300 and not getting to the hotel until nearly 10pm. (A wine “tasting” with two crackers and a smear of cheese spread was offered). Both nights on our trip we rolled into our hotel no more than 10-15 minutes before closing time at hotel restaurants (certainly the most convenient/attainable meal option for seniors who don’t want to walk a few blocks at nearly 10 pm in the dark seeking bar food) and understandably no amount of coaxing will have that facility extend their hours to accommodate.
C) Despite the late arrivals, your morning departure time is VERY early. A 0555 meeting time in the morning is actually earlier than my working day departures from my home to fight the commute….it does not say leisurely to anyone!
D) no matter how you slice it, up to 15 hours in a train seat is going to become uncomfortable. Heated, reclining (somewhat), adjustable….but still a bit thin on actual seat padding. Delays on the rails can turn an expected long day into an endurance test.
Honestly, I would strongly recommend that RM plan to provide an evening meal…even if that were to be pre-made sandwiches in a bag lunch…because it seems that it is extremely likely that delays will make planned arrival significantly later than predicted.
Also- what I learned from this is that I could have seen very similar landscape in a car along Rt 1 which is almost entirely parallel to the tracks for most of the journey…but with more control over timing and the chance to focus on things that are interesting to me. There were some interesting locations that we shot past while the train was moving well but we had no chance to explore. But I’m in my 50s and comfortable with self-organizing travel around the world…so for someone who just wants to show up with no plans or effort, this would be a good option.
Written November 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gerry B
St. Catharines, Canada1,077 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
My sister and I booked the Rocky Mountaineer First Passage to the West Excursion from Calgary to Vancouver at the end of September. This was a trip of a lifetime! The scenery was breath-taking and spectacular! We were fortunate to be able to afford the Gold Leaf Service, and I’m glad we chose this level of service for our 6-day/5-night trip.
We arrived in Calgary a day ahead of our booking, and stayed an extra night at our own expense just in case there might have been any issues with our flight from Toronto. Flight delays and cancellations seem to be happening more frequently lately. The Fairmont Palliser Hotel for our train-package overnight in Calgary was excellent. The next day, a luxury tour bus took all of us passengers from Calgary to Banff. The scenery was stunning. Along the way, we had a boat ride on Lake Minnewanka, a ride on the Banff Gondola, a stop in Banff [lunch at your expense], and numerous scenic overlook stops, which were all part of our package. We arrived in the late afternoon at the Rimrock Resort, which is just outside of Banff, for a two-night stay. This resort provided free Banff ROAM bus passes for Rocky Mountaineer guests, and the busses stops right in front of the resort. Be warned: If you’re not planning to take the public bus into Banff for suppers, be sure to make reservations at the Rimrock Resort well in advance of your arrival. There are often too many people hoping to dine there, and sometimes there aren’t enough tables [or staff] to accommodate people who just show up without reservations and expect to eat.
The next day was a free day in Banff. My sister and I had booked Hop On Banff bus tickets, which was an excellent way to see the highlights in Banff National Park. This adventure went from 7:45 AM until almost 6:00 PM in the evening. A park pass was also included in our train package. Back at the Rimrock in the evening, we enjoyed a drink at the bar, the hot tub, the pool, and the fire pits outside.
The next day, a bus took us to the train station early in the morning, where we boarded the train for our day-long train ride to Kamloops. The opportunity to travel in the glass dome viewing car with Gold Leaf service was wonderful, and we enjoyed having a separate dining car where we could be seated with other people from around the world. Discussions at breakfast and lunch were always interesting. The food was excellent, and there was plenty of it. I definitely took advantage of the outdoor viewing platform at the lower-back of our car, and got some stunning photos. The seats were super-comfortable, leather, with reclining footrests, collapsible side-tables, and a hook for purses or jackets. Drinks and snacks were available all day long. My sister certainly enjoyed the chardonnay, rosé, and sparkling wines. Since I don’t drink alcohol these days, I could order Virgin Mules, and the staff made sure that I had plenty of NA beer for the trip.
Although our accommodation in Kamloops wasn’t as posh as in Calgary and Banff, it certainly was very nice. We arrived in Kamloops quite late on a Sunday, and all of the nearby stores and sites were already closed. So, we enjoyed the hot tub and the pool at the hotel, and we grabbed a bite to eat at the hotel’s restaurant. The next day, our bus left the Kamloops hotel very early to get us to the train station. That day, the scenery from Kamloops to Vancouver was certainly different, but equally amazing. And, the Pan Pacific Hotel for our overnight in Vancouver was extraordinary!
The hostesses who were assigned to our train car were top-notch…friendly, kind, interesting, and fun. The information given throughout the trip was informative and fascinating. There was a bit of frustration for passengers at the end of the train trip when it took “forever” to arrive at the train station in Vancouver. The train engineers don’t have any control over this, though, as freight trains have priority over passenger trains on the rail lines. However, if you’re expecting this possibility, you just make the best of it! To make the best of this situation, our hostesses had us dancing, singing, and playing games.
My sister and I both found that the time just flew by every day. Neither of us was bored at all. Not having Wi-Fi or cell service actually made this trip much more enjoyable!
We also found that having some breakfast bars with us, and drinking the in-room coffee at the hotels when we were in Calgary, Banff, and Kamloops saved us a lot of time and hassle. This was so much more convenient! The busses left very early on those days, and line-ups for breakfast were long, both in the hotels and at nearby coffee shops.
One point to consider: You might think about Trip Cancellation insurance that covers wildfires, depending upon the season. The reason I point this out is because a few weeks before our trip in mid-September, a number of train trips had been cancelled by the company due to wildfires in Western Canada…the fires were so close to the tracks that it was unsafe for travel, and/or the rail lines were temporarily shut down in some sections. The devastation from the wildfires was very obvious as we travelled through certain areas on the rail lines. I had not purchased cancellation insurance that would cover this possibility, and this caused quite a bit a stress during the times when other trips were cancelled. You just never know what Mother Nature might have in store!
I would HIGHLY recommend this trip!
We arrived in Calgary a day ahead of our booking, and stayed an extra night at our own expense just in case there might have been any issues with our flight from Toronto. Flight delays and cancellations seem to be happening more frequently lately. The Fairmont Palliser Hotel for our train-package overnight in Calgary was excellent. The next day, a luxury tour bus took all of us passengers from Calgary to Banff. The scenery was stunning. Along the way, we had a boat ride on Lake Minnewanka, a ride on the Banff Gondola, a stop in Banff [lunch at your expense], and numerous scenic overlook stops, which were all part of our package. We arrived in the late afternoon at the Rimrock Resort, which is just outside of Banff, for a two-night stay. This resort provided free Banff ROAM bus passes for Rocky Mountaineer guests, and the busses stops right in front of the resort. Be warned: If you’re not planning to take the public bus into Banff for suppers, be sure to make reservations at the Rimrock Resort well in advance of your arrival. There are often too many people hoping to dine there, and sometimes there aren’t enough tables [or staff] to accommodate people who just show up without reservations and expect to eat.
The next day was a free day in Banff. My sister and I had booked Hop On Banff bus tickets, which was an excellent way to see the highlights in Banff National Park. This adventure went from 7:45 AM until almost 6:00 PM in the evening. A park pass was also included in our train package. Back at the Rimrock in the evening, we enjoyed a drink at the bar, the hot tub, the pool, and the fire pits outside.
The next day, a bus took us to the train station early in the morning, where we boarded the train for our day-long train ride to Kamloops. The opportunity to travel in the glass dome viewing car with Gold Leaf service was wonderful, and we enjoyed having a separate dining car where we could be seated with other people from around the world. Discussions at breakfast and lunch were always interesting. The food was excellent, and there was plenty of it. I definitely took advantage of the outdoor viewing platform at the lower-back of our car, and got some stunning photos. The seats were super-comfortable, leather, with reclining footrests, collapsible side-tables, and a hook for purses or jackets. Drinks and snacks were available all day long. My sister certainly enjoyed the chardonnay, rosé, and sparkling wines. Since I don’t drink alcohol these days, I could order Virgin Mules, and the staff made sure that I had plenty of NA beer for the trip.
Although our accommodation in Kamloops wasn’t as posh as in Calgary and Banff, it certainly was very nice. We arrived in Kamloops quite late on a Sunday, and all of the nearby stores and sites were already closed. So, we enjoyed the hot tub and the pool at the hotel, and we grabbed a bite to eat at the hotel’s restaurant. The next day, our bus left the Kamloops hotel very early to get us to the train station. That day, the scenery from Kamloops to Vancouver was certainly different, but equally amazing. And, the Pan Pacific Hotel for our overnight in Vancouver was extraordinary!
The hostesses who were assigned to our train car were top-notch…friendly, kind, interesting, and fun. The information given throughout the trip was informative and fascinating. There was a bit of frustration for passengers at the end of the train trip when it took “forever” to arrive at the train station in Vancouver. The train engineers don’t have any control over this, though, as freight trains have priority over passenger trains on the rail lines. However, if you’re expecting this possibility, you just make the best of it! To make the best of this situation, our hostesses had us dancing, singing, and playing games.
My sister and I both found that the time just flew by every day. Neither of us was bored at all. Not having Wi-Fi or cell service actually made this trip much more enjoyable!
We also found that having some breakfast bars with us, and drinking the in-room coffee at the hotels when we were in Calgary, Banff, and Kamloops saved us a lot of time and hassle. This was so much more convenient! The busses left very early on those days, and line-ups for breakfast were long, both in the hotels and at nearby coffee shops.
One point to consider: You might think about Trip Cancellation insurance that covers wildfires, depending upon the season. The reason I point this out is because a few weeks before our trip in mid-September, a number of train trips had been cancelled by the company due to wildfires in Western Canada…the fires were so close to the tracks that it was unsafe for travel, and/or the rail lines were temporarily shut down in some sections. The devastation from the wildfires was very obvious as we travelled through certain areas on the rail lines. I had not purchased cancellation insurance that would cover this possibility, and this caused quite a bit a stress during the times when other trips were cancelled. You just never know what Mother Nature might have in store!
I would HIGHLY recommend this trip!
Written November 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julia O
Edinburgh, UK5 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Couples
Dreadful company.
Our trip was cancelled due to the wild fires. We were put on a coach for a 12 hr trip to Vancouver stopping at petrol stations for toilet breaks. Not once did the Rocky Mountaineer staff properly acknowledge the disappointment of their customers not getting their trip of a ‘lifetime’. My husband and I had travelled from Scotland and saved for years to be able to do this holiday. I felt some recognition of this would have helped.
We were told we would be entitled to $125 per person to cover meals. Well guess what- we still haven’t received it! Three months on and still waiting.
When we chase this up, the company has a standard- thanks for your patience and understanding. Well at this stage we have no patience or understanding. Get it sorted!
No refund or proper compensation. We have been told that we can do the journey again next year but this means an enormous cost for us. Transatlantic flights, hotels etc.
I’d never recommend this company due to their customer service. Zero stars from me.
Our trip was cancelled due to the wild fires. We were put on a coach for a 12 hr trip to Vancouver stopping at petrol stations for toilet breaks. Not once did the Rocky Mountaineer staff properly acknowledge the disappointment of their customers not getting their trip of a ‘lifetime’. My husband and I had travelled from Scotland and saved for years to be able to do this holiday. I felt some recognition of this would have helped.
We were told we would be entitled to $125 per person to cover meals. Well guess what- we still haven’t received it! Three months on and still waiting.
When we chase this up, the company has a standard- thanks for your patience and understanding. Well at this stage we have no patience or understanding. Get it sorted!
No refund or proper compensation. We have been told that we can do the journey again next year but this means an enormous cost for us. Transatlantic flights, hotels etc.
I’d never recommend this company due to their customer service. Zero stars from me.
Written November 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda B
1 contribution
Oct. 2023 • Friends
The train ride was over the top fabulous in every way, shape and form. You got 5 star quality, customer service/attention to detail and the food was phenominal.
And then - the motorcoach transfers (except to our last transfer to Lake Louise and then to Calgary), were utter chaos to put it mildly. That was very, very disappointing given this was a “luxury vacation”. The motorcoach transfers brought this trip down to maybe, maybe, an Apple Vacation and something I would expect from such a level of vacation.
When loading the motorcoaches in Vancouver to board the train initially, there were 750 people. Rocky Mountaineer had 2 ee’s supporting this. Again, there were 750 people. Of the 750, many of them never got their luggage tags the night before so 1 of the 2 Rocky Mountaineer ee’s had to assist these people. Rocky Mtnr (RM) has 25 yrs of experience in the luxury travel industry and is well aware that there will be guests that do not get their luggage tags as required. It was absolute chaos to put it mildly and took us 45 minutes to board the bus before it's departure. We were probably one of the first 100 people. The other 650 people were behind us. I can’t imagine how long it took them to get thru the chaos and disorganization to board a bus.
RM's guest services response when I emailed them - "oh that's because some guests didn't get their luggage tags the night before as per instructions". Again, RM is well aware that unfortunately this is the norm for many of their guests. Further, I reminded them, "you had 2 RM ee's for 750 people and have been doing this for 25 years".....
Then we were to board a bus in Jasper to take us up to Banff. There was -0- Rocky Mountaineer ee's there. Four buses pulled up and the 350+ people that were to board theses buses had to go from bus to bus to ask if they should board this bus or another bus. Bus drivers stood out by the door of their buses screaming names of those that would be on his bus. Utter, utter chaos to put it mildly. This chaos caused the loading and departure of the buses to be delayed by at least 30 minutes. Guest services response "Oh, that's Brewster fault - not ours." My response back "who did we pay our $ to? not to Brewster (RM's choice) but to Rocky Mountaineer direct.
So now we’re on the bus to Banff from Jasper following the chaos of getting on the right bus (nothing was labeled of course) and here you had people on each bus that would stop at various hotels at the end of our day to drop them off. In Lake Louise we sat on the bus for an extra ½ hour. In total those guests that were going to the hotel in Banff (we were included in this group) were on the bus in excess of an extra 2 hours because of the drive to these various hotels drop offs and then sitting and waiting before we got going again. All four buses got to Banff @ 8:30 p.m.
All this is very disappointing at best, given the “luxury trip” tag put upon this vacation. RM's been doing this for over 25 years….. Where is the expertise in putting this together properly? Was the level of this trip an Apple Vacation? It certainly felt like it.
Additionally, I also asked their stance on someone within the group coming down with Covid. Is their a precaution put in place to warn the travelers that a fellow travel within the group has come down with Covid? I'll call her Kathy, was on our trip - we became friends. She came down with Covid while on the trip - the balance of her trip was cancelled and she was sequestered to stay in her room. How do I know this, she texted me this info but none of this precaution was sent to any other travelers within our group - we asked other travelers including friends we were traveling with who never got notified.
The beauty of the Canadian Rocky's is over the top glorious BUT I wouldn't recommend this trip given the price tag on this trip and the chaos of motorcoach transfers, again and again - it's disorganization and chaos is not that of a label of a “luxury vacation”. They still have a lot of growing pains but at the customers expense.
And then - the motorcoach transfers (except to our last transfer to Lake Louise and then to Calgary), were utter chaos to put it mildly. That was very, very disappointing given this was a “luxury vacation”. The motorcoach transfers brought this trip down to maybe, maybe, an Apple Vacation and something I would expect from such a level of vacation.
When loading the motorcoaches in Vancouver to board the train initially, there were 750 people. Rocky Mountaineer had 2 ee’s supporting this. Again, there were 750 people. Of the 750, many of them never got their luggage tags the night before so 1 of the 2 Rocky Mountaineer ee’s had to assist these people. Rocky Mtnr (RM) has 25 yrs of experience in the luxury travel industry and is well aware that there will be guests that do not get their luggage tags as required. It was absolute chaos to put it mildly and took us 45 minutes to board the bus before it's departure. We were probably one of the first 100 people. The other 650 people were behind us. I can’t imagine how long it took them to get thru the chaos and disorganization to board a bus.
RM's guest services response when I emailed them - "oh that's because some guests didn't get their luggage tags the night before as per instructions". Again, RM is well aware that unfortunately this is the norm for many of their guests. Further, I reminded them, "you had 2 RM ee's for 750 people and have been doing this for 25 years".....
Then we were to board a bus in Jasper to take us up to Banff. There was -0- Rocky Mountaineer ee's there. Four buses pulled up and the 350+ people that were to board theses buses had to go from bus to bus to ask if they should board this bus or another bus. Bus drivers stood out by the door of their buses screaming names of those that would be on his bus. Utter, utter chaos to put it mildly. This chaos caused the loading and departure of the buses to be delayed by at least 30 minutes. Guest services response "Oh, that's Brewster fault - not ours." My response back "who did we pay our $ to? not to Brewster (RM's choice) but to Rocky Mountaineer direct.
So now we’re on the bus to Banff from Jasper following the chaos of getting on the right bus (nothing was labeled of course) and here you had people on each bus that would stop at various hotels at the end of our day to drop them off. In Lake Louise we sat on the bus for an extra ½ hour. In total those guests that were going to the hotel in Banff (we were included in this group) were on the bus in excess of an extra 2 hours because of the drive to these various hotels drop offs and then sitting and waiting before we got going again. All four buses got to Banff @ 8:30 p.m.
All this is very disappointing at best, given the “luxury trip” tag put upon this vacation. RM's been doing this for over 25 years….. Where is the expertise in putting this together properly? Was the level of this trip an Apple Vacation? It certainly felt like it.
Additionally, I also asked their stance on someone within the group coming down with Covid. Is their a precaution put in place to warn the travelers that a fellow travel within the group has come down with Covid? I'll call her Kathy, was on our trip - we became friends. She came down with Covid while on the trip - the balance of her trip was cancelled and she was sequestered to stay in her room. How do I know this, she texted me this info but none of this precaution was sent to any other travelers within our group - we asked other travelers including friends we were traveling with who never got notified.
The beauty of the Canadian Rocky's is over the top glorious BUT I wouldn't recommend this trip given the price tag on this trip and the chaos of motorcoach transfers, again and again - it's disorganization and chaos is not that of a label of a “luxury vacation”. They still have a lot of growing pains but at the customers expense.
Written November 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nigel W
London19 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
This was a bucket list trip which exceeded even our very high expectations. The hotels included in the package were excellent (although Kamloops as a stop over destination isn’t much to write home about). The train it self was awesome with huge vistas through the glass canopy, the food served at both Breakfast and lunch were first class as were the drink offerings). The views are breathtaking and to top it all off the hosts and dining staff were exceptional and made everyone feel special, the enthusiasm and love for their job shone through so a big thank you to our team of Harrison, Marina , Abby and Sammy who made our trip so magical.
I would also recommend the trip through cloud’s experience as the views in the Rockies have to be seen to be believed.
I would also recommend the trip through cloud’s experience as the views in the Rockies have to be seen to be believed.
Written November 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alvin B
Reston, VA25 contributions
The late arrival time and hotel check-in times, how difficult was it to find something to eat? Sounds like we should pack a picnic to take with
us on the train ride.
Shawn H
Milford, DE5 contributions
If traveling to Glenwood Springs, from Moab, might not be a bad idea, although many of the restaurants were open late. If traveling from Denver to Glenwood Springs, there is plenty of time to dine in town.
Bob
Chardon, OH1,620 contributions
Hello,
I will be traveling on the Rocky Mountaineer in May...Gold Leaf service. Vancouver to Banff. We are traveling with another couple.
Do the gold leaf seats turn around so a group of 4 can face each other?
What is best seating arrangement for 4 people traveling together?
Thank you
Mike B
2 contributions
Hi Samantha,
Just about all of the seats in each Gold Leaf service car are facing in the same direction. They do turn around but the only seats we saw facing each other were in the very front of our train car so you could probably request those from Rocky Mountaineer ahead of your trip. The only problem may be is that 2 people have to sit backwards from the direction the train is traveling.
After our trip, we would recommend sitting side by side. We carried on conversations with another couple like this and it worked perfectly. You can also request to sit together during breakfast and Lunch. We did this with a new couple we met on our trip.
One thing…RM assigns seats at check-in for your trip. To ensure your choice, you want to request ahead of time that you and your friends sit across from each other or in those seats at the front of the car that face each other.
Hope you enjoy your trip!
jueber99
cheltenham12 contributions
Hi, I am travelling on Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver as part of a month long holiday.
My intention is to pay for 1 piece of extra luggage on Air Canada to allow us to take 3 x checked in luggage plus 2 x carry on's per couple. Will Rocky Mountaineer transport our 3 x cases and 2 x carry on's (per couple) to our hotel?
If not, is there a way to transport an extra piece of luggage from Banff to our Vancouver hotel?
kh048
Sutton, UK5 contributions
Hi, Rocky Mountineer does not specify how many pieces of luggage it will take to your hotel . They are very helpful and will be able to sort it out for you if you email them.
triskele27
Belfast, UK48 contributions
We are travelling from Ireland in September and booked on the Rocky Mountaineer Vancouver-Kamloops-Banff before an Alaska cruise from Nome.
We are concerned about our hand baggage (20 litre backpack camera bags 18x13x12inches) being too large for the space on the train.
The only info we can find on bag size, is in a reply by RM to a previous query on Trip Advisor, and the space given is smaller than our backpacks.
Has anyone had problems taking hand baggage on board RM because of size, refused boarding or asked to put a bag in with checked baggage?
We are both photographers, used to travelling with camera gear in a backpack which meets all aircraft size limits we have encountered and we carry our gear as hand baggage so it does not get lost in transit or damaged by bag-handlers (as has happened with our checked bags).
We can juggle with our stuff in our shared foot-space as long as we are not stopped from boarding or have to argue to keep our camera bags with us. Obviously we do not want to abandon this part of our trip.
575robertu
Albury, Australia83 contributions
From my experience not a problem. You will have it around your feet. If the carriage is not full you can ask if you use the spare seat to store items on.
SCORPIO67
Chesterfield, UK142 contributions
Hi we are doing Journey through the clouds in May 24 which we are really looking forward to, with an overnight stay in Kamloops. Does anyone have any info on what the hotel you stay in is like, time you arrive and what it’s like?
Andy K
Canada58 contributions
Rocky Mountaineer will provide you with all the info you need. Just call or email them ;)
texchef
Vancouver, WA12 contributions
Does anyone have experience using a wheelchair on this trip?
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, Canada1 contribution
Rocky Mountaineer’s trains are accessible for guests that have a wide range of mobility. We do understand that each guest's mobility levels and needs are unique and should be discussed with one of our Vacation Consultants at the time of booking, to ensure a seamless travel experience. You can find details regarding our trains and facilities from the preparing to go section of our website. We are unable to reply with a link here.
You will also find answers to other frequently asked questions like this from the FAQ section of our website.
Rick S
East Amherst, NY823 contributions
Hi Planning a trip on the Mountaineer, how do you decide which route and what time of the year to go.
Barry S
Nottingham, UK94 contributions
Actually our trip on the Rocky Mountaineer was determined by the timing of an Alaska cruise which we combined with a short stay in Vancouver.
Ellen F
Brisbane, Australia104 contributions
I am booked on the Rocky Mountaineer as part of a Trafalgar tour. The last day is from Kamloops to Vancouver on 24 July. The information about the tour says the train gets in between 6.30 & 8.30pm. We are booked on a flight out of Canada later that night and I am now very concerned that we might not make it. Is there anyone who has done this tour who can tell me what time the train got in? Thanks
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, Canada1 contribution
Hello,
Rail travel in North America is occasionally subject to unforeseen delays. While Rocky Mountaineer is treated as a priority on the train tracks it uses, occasional delays do occur. For that reason, if your package does not already include accommodation at the end of your journey please do not arrange connecting transportation, including flights, on this day. Rocky Mountaineer can arrange for additional hotel nights, airport transfers, and tour options at the start or end of your rail journey with advance notice.
Thank you.
I won’t to go by train from Kamloops to Toronto how many days does that take? And how many sleeps in a hotel ?
fussylady001
Arlington, VIrginia222 contributions
The Rocky Mountaineer doesn't go from Kamloops to Toronto. It does go from Kamloops to Vancouver as a continuation from Jasper, as we did. and, you said you didn't want to take the train to Toronto from Kamloops. You'd have to go to Vancouver or Calgary to get to Toronto. Does that answer your question? I'm not sure what you are asking about "sleeps" in a hotel. You want to get off the train each night?
How many staff are on board? How many are operational and how many service staff? Just wondering about passenger to staff ratios or is it how many carriages they have on that affects this?
CKimoff
Toronto, Canada578 contributions
There are 4 customer service agents on each car - they do a great job of covering everyone's needs very well (so a good ratio).