All Three Classes of The Canadian Explained
Picking a class for one of the great train trips across Canada feels hard until you picture who’s actually riding. So let’s meet three imaginary travellers and see which seat, berth or suite suits each of them.
The budget traveller: Economy Class
If a solo traveller wants the journey without the big bill, Economy Class gives him a reclining seat, with no private cabin. Meals are available to buy on board, so snacks and a water bottle are smart. The Skyline Car, with its glass dome, is open for day journeys, so you still get the view. Rail only fares start at $514 CAD per person.
Four nights in a seat is a lot, though. Economy suits budget conscious travellers and shorter segments, like a hop to Jasper or Winnipeg.
The comfort seekers: Sleeper Plus Class
Most people riding the Canadian train end up in Sleeper Plus, and it’s easy to see why a comfort seeking couple books a private cabin for two. By day it’s a pair of comfy seats. At night it turns into upper and lower berths with linens and bedding. The cabin has its own washroom, and each sleeping car has shared showers.
All three daily meals come with the ticket, served in the dining car with several main courses. Non alcoholic drinks are included, while beer and Canadian wines cost extra. They also board first, have access to the lounge and are given time in the Park Car dome (although that is only in the evenings during the busy summer period).
A berth starts from $1,083 CAD per person, and a cabin for two from about $1,960 CAD each. This class fits couples, friends and anyone wanting full comfort without paying top price.
The anniversary couple: Prestige Class
If a couple want the trip itself to be the treat, Prestige is the top tier, with a cabin about 50 per cent larger than Sleeper Plus. A leather L shaped sofa sits by the window, then becomes a double Murphy bed at night, facing the scenery. A private washroom, flat screen and heated floor await you.
From gourmet dining to beverages, snacks and bar service, everything is included. They are cared for by a dedicated concierge and priority boarding and lounge access is standard. In peak season, the Park Car dome is theirs alone, all day. Prestige starts from $8,250 CAD per person.
Which class suits whom?
Class | Best for | From (CAD, rail only) |
Economy | Budget travellers, shorter segments | $514 |
Sleeper Plus | Couples and anyone wanting full comfort | $1,083 |
Prestige | Milestone trips and a premium experience | $8,250 |
Final thoughts
The answer is not wrong, it is just right. First consider the number of nights you will spend on board, then consider privacy, meals and budget. The scenery is the same outside, and the dome cars are waiting for you, regardless of which class you choose!
