LORTON, Va. — It’s no bullet train — the 861-mile trip takes more than 16 hours — but the Amtrak Auto Train offers a break for travelers weary of driving up and down I-95 between Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Fla., the Associated Press reported.
The auto train provides daily nonstop service between Lorton, Va., just south of Washington, and Sanford, Fla., just north of Orlando. Trains depart both locations at 4 p.m. and are scheduled to arrive at the other end of the line at 8:30 the following morning.
It’s the only train in the United States that allows passengers to take along their vehicles – automobiles, vans and motorcycles.
But no pets.
The auto train is the longest passenger train in the world. It stretches from one-half to two-thirds of a mile long with 50 cars, including two locomotives, crew car, diner and lounge cars, coach and sleeper cars, and vehicle carriers. It can haul 270 vehicles in 32 cars and 600 passengers in 18 cars.
Passengers are served dinner and breakfast and treated to a movie. Each seat in the coach reclines with a foot rest and offers plenty of leg room. Pillows and blankets are provided. Sleeper cars are available for an additional cost.
Safety concerns have increased since an auto train derailed in northern Florida on April 18. Four passengers were killed and 150 were injured. Nonetheless, several passengers on a recent trip commented that they encountered fewer hassles than they would flying these days and they would take the auto train again.
Ray Abbott of Virginia, an Amtrak attendant for 12 years, has a tip for auto train riders. “Passengers usually carry too much luggage on board,” he says. “Leave the baggage in your vehicle and relax and enjoy the ride.”
Planning a trip:
The round-trip coach fares for adults ranges from $167-$267, half-price for children 2-15. The round-trip standard sleeper room fares for two guests range from $119-$264. Round trip prices for vehicles range from $140-$281 for cars, $228-$455 for vans and SUVs, and $109-$218 for motorcycles. AAA members receive an additional 10 percent off vehicle prices. Automobiles may be no taller than 65 inches. Vans and SUVs may be no taller that 85 inches.
Contact Amtrak at 1-877-754-7495 or visit the Web site, www.amtrak.com.