[10] The planned service to Rockland was scuttled after Amtrak failed to conduct a risk assessment. Amfleet I food service cars are either Club-Dinettes or Full-Dinettes. The trains consist of reserved coach and business class accommodations featuring Wi-Fi throughout the trains. Downeaster value fares are economical, ranging from $3 - $30 one-way. The Downeaster service is operated by Amtrak with financial support from The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA). All seats have electrical outlets, and Amtrak Connect (Amtrak's Wi-Fi (wireless internet) service) is available. Club-Dinettes have 6 tables at one end and a snack bar in the middle, followed by 18 business class seats (1x2 seating). B Business class: Ticket price includes non-alcoholic beverage. [20], In August 2007, top speeds were increased from 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) to 79 miles per hour (127 km/h), cutting 20 minutes from trips between Portland and Boston. Children ages 2-12 ride the Downeaster for FREE on Sundays when accompanied by a full fare paying adult (age 18+). In 1992, Maine voters approved a $5.4 million rail bond for right-of-way improvements, and $60,000 was granted to the Maine DOT to design a Portland intermodal terminal. Business Class on Northeast Regional, Palmetto, and Vermonter trains also includes reserved seating. All Downeaster trains and stations are fully accessible, with ample luggage space on board. A special dome car is available August 11 – September 23, 2018 to view the fall foliage (confirm dome car availability before booking) [37], In 2017 and 2018, NNEPRA constructed a 4-mile (6 km) passing track, the Royal Junction siding, on the 30-mile (48 km) single-track section of line between Portland and Brunswick to enable an increase from three to five daily round trips to Brunswick. [30] Service began on November 1, 2012 with two daily services to and from Boston. [21] In 2009, NNEPRA unsuccessfully applied for federal stimulus money to increase train speeds—enough to cut 10 to 12 minutes off travel time—and increase the number of daily round trips from five to seven. Schedule View the… 5:55. In February 2020, NNERPA was awarded a $16.9 million federal grant for the project. In fiscal 2011, ridership topped 500,000 for the first time. This discount is not available when tickets are purchased onboard the train or valid for travel in business class. Other concerns with the current station include limited parking and its location on Thompson's Point. The last mile of track in Brunswick is owned by MaineDOT. At the urging of Maine's congressional delegation, Amtrak in 1990 estimated the cost of creating passenger rail service at about $50 million: $30 million for infrastructure improvements and another $20 million for equipment. Inside Track keeps you informed of service information, travel advisories, and newest special. * When the train arrives, the conductor will direct you to a seat and you’ll be on your way! Wells station will be modified with a second platform and a footbridge. The Business Class (now just a few seats up the back of the café car, provides spacious 2 + 1 seating in seats that resemble aircraft seats of the past. [14], Service to Brunswick was originally intended to begin within five years of the Downeaster's 2001 launch, but was delayed by lack of funding and other obstacles. [46] A single round trip resumed between Boston and Brunswick on June 15, 2020. All Rights Reserved. Ridership dropped 18.2% (nearly 100,000 fewer riders) from the previous fiscal year. [8] The route the Downeaster follows is designated by the Federal Railroad Administration as a potential high-speed rail corridor. Most right-of-way improvements were complete in 2000, but the following year, start-up was delayed again when Guilford refused to allow Amtrak to test track modulus or run trains faster than 59 miles per hour (95 km/h). The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA). Want to know the latest about Downeaster train service? Negotiations between NNEPRA, Amtrak, and Guilford Industries (now Pan Am Railways) began in 1996, but began to fail over many factors, including equipment weight and speed limits. There are currently five daily round trips between Boston and Portland, and three of which continuing beyond Portland to Brunswick. [11] According to the NNEPRA, public support remains for this extended service. The Amtrak Downeaster offers two seating options: Coach Class and Business Class. [28], NNEPRA officials are looking into the feasibility of relocating the station in Portland. As I recall, from my one trip in Business Class on a Surfliner a couple years ago, the seats are not specifically assigned. The Downeaster uses the MBTA's Lowell Line from Boston's North Station to Wilmington, the Wildcat Branch to Wilmington Junction, and the Haverhill Line to the Massachusetts–New Hampshire state line. [24] Like Old Orchard Beach, it would have been a seasonal stop, open from April to October. Later that year, Congress approved $25.5 million for more right-of-way improvements, and 1993 saw an additional $9.5 million in track improvements. Copyright 2021. And to make it even more rewarding, Amtrak Guest Rewards members earn a 25% qualifying point bonus for Business Class … [39][40] All five weekend round trips began running to Brunswick on May 20, 2019. Free Wi-Fi (wireless internet) is available to passengers on all Downeaster trains. y Lounge: Sandwiches, snacks and beverages. Upgrade to business class and enjoy extra-spacious seating for an additional $5 - $10 one-way. Both offer reclining seats with lots of legroom and plenty of space to move around. å Wi-Fi available. All seats have electrical outlets. The Downeaster was led by F40 cab control car 90214 followed by a Business class/cafe car, 4 Amfleet coaches, and trailing P42 # 130 wearing the Amtrak belt stripe heritage paint scheme. The Downeaster and Empire Corridor Trains (continuing on north or west of AlI always try to get a business class seat as they typically have the 2-1 leather seating (except those trains that don't offer business class of course). B Business class: Ticket price includes non-alcoholic beverage and newspaper. You’ll need a valid reservation for the train, although seats are first-come, first-served. [6], In April 2013, NNEPRA announced that a plan to expand passenger rail service to Lewiston–Auburn, Maine's second-largest metropolitan area, would be released later in the year. Downeaster at Boston North Station (2005) Southbound Downeaster at Woburn (2005) Northbound Downeaster at Woburn (2005) Downeaster Logo on Non Power Cab (2005) Photographs, travelogues, accommodations, and other information about train travel on the route of the Amtrak Downeaster. [4] All trains have a cafe car that sells snacks, light meals, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. [3] Downeaster passengers continuing south from Boston on Amtrak may take MBTA subway trains to Back Bay or South Station. [26][27]:95 On October 9, 2018, the Kennebunk Board of Selectmen cancelled the station project over concerns about the suitability of the site. Not available Sundays in July or August. Enjoy an enhanced travel experience in Business Class on the Downeaster and you'll have access to exclusive amenities such as a fully refundable ticket if canceled prior to departure, 25% point bonus for Amtrak Guest Rewards members, leather seating with footrests and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. By using the Wildcat Branch to cross between the Lowell and Haverhill lines, the Downeaster can pass a Haverhill train. [42], In July 2019, local officials proposed an infill station in West Falmouth adjacent to a Maine Turnpike exit. [23], In May 2014, NNEPRA agreed to add a station stop in Kennebunk, Maine. [47], Between December 2001 through 2005, annual ridership ranged from 250,000 to 300,000 passengers. Overhead storage is provided in business class and above, along with reading lights and power outlets. [38] The increase to five weekday round trips between Boston and Brunswick (with four Brunswick round trips and one Portland round trip on weekends) took place on November 12, 2018. If the Northern New England Corridor were funded and completed as proposed, passenger trains would travel at up to 110 miles per hour (177 km/h) between Boston, Portland, and Lewiston. [31], The extension to Brunswick led to the construction of an enclosed layover facility there, just west of the station; trains had been stored outdoors in Portland. [citation needed]. Make memories in Maine with the Amtrak Downeaster. In December 1998, a speed limit of 80 miles per hour (130 km/h) was agreed upon; the following year, the Federal Surface Transportation Board approved a limit of 79 miles per hour (127 km/h). Upgrade to business class and enjoy extra-spacious seating for an additional $5 - $10 one-way. The Downeaster follows the route historically used by the Pine Tree and Flying Yankee trains that traveled from Bangor to Boston and were operated jointly by the Boston & Maine Railroad and Maine Central Railroad. In fiscal 2008, the Downeaster was Amtrak's fastest-growing service, with ridership up 22.9% from the previous year. The Downeaster offers two classes of service: Reserved Coach and Business Class. Compared to fiscal 2017, ridership rose 7.75% to 551,038 passengers while ticket revenue rose 18.85% to $10.2 million. DOWNEASTER SCHEDULES EFFECTIVE 12/2/17 Service on the Amtrak DowneasterSM R Coaches: Reservations required. All passenger operations between Portland and Boston ceased in 1965. [citation needed] A service plan for passenger rail service between Lewiston–Auburn and Portland is under development and will be complete in 2019. Factors in a new location for the station include being on the main line, vehicular access, pedestrian access, and proximity to downtown. The Portland Transportation Center is located on a branch line, which adds 15 minutes to travel time for trains to or from Brunswick as they must leave the main line. The Downeaster is separated from the rest of Amtrak’s system because there is no direct link between Boston's train stations. "Upgrade to business class, grab a Shipyard and a Hebrew National frank, and settle in." The last mile of track in Brunswick is owned by MaineDOT. See 4 photos and 2 tips from 30 visitors to Downeaster 685. From there to just short of Brunswick, it uses the Pan Am Railways Freight Main Line. One child may travel at the discounted rate with each … [19], Service was initially expected to start in the 1990s. Onboard the Amtrak Downeaster enjoy comfortable reclining seats with lots of legroom, oversized windows to enjoy the scenic views, free wi-fi, and personal outlets at every seat. [25] Part of the former Boston & Maine depot building, used for passenger service from 1873 to 1965, was to be leased for use as a waiting area. Media in category "Downeaster" The following 39 files are in this category, out of 39 total. [35] Several Democratic state legislators asked NNEPRA to build in an existing rail yard in South Portland, and to focus on the "core product" of Boston-Portland service instead. Table seating is available in the Downeaster Café, which offers a variety of snacks and beverages featuring Maine-made products. There’s also plenty of room for luggage in the overhead space (check the … Amfleet I business class on Downeaster train at BON.jpg 3,648 × 2,736; 2.59 MB Initial plans called for a temporary platform to be erected in 2016, with a permanent platform constructed with $300,000 in town money and $800,000 in state money for 2017 or 2018. There is plenty of space to spread out because ridership is currently limited to 50% of seating capacity. It is the longest Michigan rail route, but not all trains travel the entire distance between these two cities. The first expansion of Downeaster service came that month, when the improvements made it possible to increase from four to five daily round trips from Portland to Boston. Station closed; reopens Spring 2018. Previous deal « Amtrak Downeaster – Discover Maine Rail Pass. [54], Media related to Downeaster at Wikimedia Commons, "Trainriders NE – Host Program." Motive power is provided by a GE Genesis P42DC on the northbound end of the train. Business class seating is reserved, which means you’re guaranteed a seat. The Official Site of Trainriders NE. [7] 58% of the overall ridership travels to or from the state of Maine. Multi-ride travel passes for frequent riders and students make it even more affordable to ride. 57 reviews of Amtrak Downeaster "I recently took the Amtrak Downeaster train service from Boston to Portland, ME. [45], In April 2020, the Downeaster was suspended as part of a round of service reduction in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Complimentary service consisted of the café attendant calling from the end of the car that you guys are entitled to a free drink (of coffee or soda) come up and get it as we are going to be busy today. [34] State politicians became involved; Governor Paul LePage, concerned about job creation at Brunswick Landing, suggested alternate locations in eastern Brunswick. In 1995, then-governor Angus King and Commissioner of Transportation John Melrose ordered the creation of a passenger rail authority; TrainRiders/Northeast, led by Chairman Wayne Davis,[18] worked with the state Chamber of Commerce and industry, Maine DOT, and others to convince the Maine Legislature to create the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority in August. The Downeaster typically operates with four Amfleet I coaches and an Amfleet business/cafe coach. ... Want to know the latest about Downeaster train service? Neighbors of the planned location demanded further environmental studies, saying they believe the facility would hurt nearby areas. This would be the first time there were direct Lewiston-Portland trains since the Maine Central Railroad terminated service in 1960. Amfleet I coaches are configured as either Regional coach class (72 seats per car, with 2x2 seating) or business class (62 seats per car, with 2x2 seating). [14] This rail shuttle would connect Commercial Street in Portland with high density developments at Thompson’s Point, Rock Row and to other transit services, which would support private investments and mitigate the growing congestion. [48][49] FY2018 was the Downeaster's busiest year. This discount is not valid for travel in business class. The Downeaster is a 141-mile (227 km) regional passenger train service, managed by the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA), and operated by Amtrak. The train has food service, business class and free wi-fi for all. The Downeaster is a regional train that provides passenger rail service to northern New England between Boston and ... while equipment consists of Amfleet cars that offer both coach and business class accommodations. We were on the first train early in the morning from LA to San Diego (having just connected from the arriving Sunset Ltd), and the business class car was almost empty (see photo taken when we boarded at Los Angeles), so no problem for us. Additionally, all Business Class seats are located in a dedicated car or section of the train. They recline and have fold-down tray tables. [4] The Downeaster also has a "train host" program, coordinated by … All of these lines were once part of the Boston and Maine Railroad; the part south of Wilmington Junction was once the mainline and a branch of the Boston and Lowell Railroad [43], The Downeaster's ridership, finances, and performance suffered in the first half of 2015 because of an exceptionally brutal winter and a subsequent large-scale tie replacement project funded by the NNEPRA. The last original 1955 Great Dome railcar was often added to the train during autumn season for leaf peeping[16] until its retirement in 2019.[17]. The Downeaster uses the MBTA's Lowell Line from Boston's North Station to Wilmington, the Wildcat Branch to Wilmington Junction, and the Haverhill Line to the Massachusetts–New Hampshire state line. The Downeaster offers two classes of service — Reserved Coach and Business Class — as well as a café car. You can even bring your small pet or bike. [2] All of these lines were once part of the Boston and Maine Railroad; the part south of Wilmington Junction was once the mainline and a branch of the Boston and Lowell Railroad, and the rest was the mainline of the B&M. å Wi-Fi available. [7] As of September 2016, the question of whether the line might be built remains unsettled. Amtrak Downeaster Freeport Train & Information Center 23 Depot Street Freeport, ME 04032 Amtrakdowneaster.com. By the end of 1994, total appropriations for infrastructure had reached $38.6 million. Once on board, enjoy amenities such as a quiet car, business class seating, cafe and free WiFi. Since 2005, ridership has increased an average of 13.1% per year, excluding calendar year 2009, which saw ridership shrink by 4.7%. [53], In 2013, the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority estimated that the Downeaster has an annual economic impact of $12 million from visitors to Maine, and directly or indirectly employs 200 people. Amtrak's Downeaster runs from Boston's North Station to Portland, Maine, five times a day, with two ... Happily, the service expanded to Freeport-Brunswick in Novermber, 2012. In January 2010, NNEPRA received a $35 million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 for track and signal upgrades for the Portland-Brunswick line. The Downeaster offers coach and business class seating. During its fiscal year 2015 (July 2014 to June 2015), Amtrak cancelled 488, or 13 percent, of its scheduled Downeaster trains. Earlier in that same year, the Maine State Legislature adopted its first citizen-initiated bill, the "Passenger Rail Service Act", which was endorsed by the Maine DOT and signed by the governor. [2] A feasibility study conducted by NNEPRA estimated that establishing such a service would cost about $100 million in infrastructure and rolling stock. Business Class on the Downeaster. [22], In 2011, the Downeaster was the first Amtrak train to offer free Wi-Fi service and e-ticketing. [21][32] NNEPRA announced plans for the facility in 2013, with construction slated to run from summer 2013 until late 2014,[33] but local opposition delayed the project. Enjoy more legroom and reclining leather seats with an upgrade to our business class car for an additional $10! The Downeaster offers two classes of service: Reserved Coach and Business Class. Train hosts assist passengers at station stops. Amtrak's Wolverine trains travel between Chicago and Pontiac, Michigan three times a day in each direction. DOWNEASTER SCHEDULES EFFECTIVE 10/21/19 Service on the Amtrak DowneasterSM R Coaches: Reservations required. Multi-ride travel passes for frequent riders and students make it even more affordable to ride. The following year, Amtrak agreed to provide the equipment at no charge to the State of Maine. It would cost between $7 and $13 million annually to operate, depending on the level of service.[15]. Peter von Panda 224,103 views. All seats have electrical outlets, and Amtrak Connect (Amtrak's Wi-Fi (wireless internet) service) is available. In October 2017, NNEPRA announced plans to extend one weekend Downeaster round trip to Rockland between Memorial Day and Labor Day beginning in 2018. Downeaster amenities include Coach and Business Class options as well as free Wi-Fi and electrical outlets at every seat. [44], The Downeaster resumed its full schedule on August 1, 2015, following the completion of the track repairs. Riding The Downeaster And Silver Meteor by Jack M. Turner . Named for the Down East region of Maine, the train runs from North Station in Boston, Massachusetts to Brunswick, Maine, with 10 intermediate stops. The train operates five daily round trips between Boston and Brunswick. This service is separate from regular Amtrak in that it is run by the State of Maine, which leases the equipment from Amtrak and operates the trains itself, so there are a few differences from regular Amtrak. [2][9], Until 2015, the Maine Eastern Railroad offered seasonal excursion service to Rockland, Maine which connected to the Downeaster at Brunswick. From there to just short of Brunswick, it uses the Pan Am Railways Freight Main Line. Book travel, check train capacity, and modify reservations from the safety of a mobile device. Downeaster value fares are economical, ranging from $3 - $30 one-way. Coastal Club Business Class: The three café car attendants also offer newspapers and beverages to passengers in the adjacent business class section. #™ Seasonal stop. y Lounge: Sandwiches, snacks and beverages. Due in part to the route's success, North Station was the 23rd busiest Amtrak station in the country in fiscal year 2018, and the fifth busiest in New England (behind South Station, Providence, New Haven Union and Back Bay). May 5, 2009 <, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, "FY 2018 Downeaster Draft Performance Report", "This Tiny Boston Tunnel Is the Missing Piece to Finally Connect the Entire East Coast", http://www.trainridersne.org/WebPages/TRNE_HostProgram/host, "Downeaster plans train to L-A, eventually", Press Herald: Maine is shortchanging Lewiston-Auburn rail study, "Rail group eyes Amtrak service to Rockland by summer 2018", "Decision to drop plan for summer train to Rockland disappoints city's businesses", "Bath awaits delayed Downeaster service as testing continues", "Coastal Connection Service Extension Pilot", "Rail officials seek new Portland station for Downeaster", "Proposed rail service would link Portland, Westbrook, but it would be pricey", "Amtrak brings back 1955 dome rail car to Downeaster train", "Amtrak's 'Great Dome' car has been retired", "Highlights from Formation of TNE to the Downeaster Inaugural", "Downeaster's new service to Brunswick doing better than expected", "Amtrak's Downeaster Hopes To Tap Stimulus Money", "Amtrak Downeaster rolls out electronic tickets, improved Wi-Fi", "Next stop, Kennebunk: Amtrak's Downeaster welcomed as seasonal economic boost", "Downeaster platform in Kennebunk chugging along", "Downeaster train service adds stop in Kennebunk", "Train station plans come to a halt in Kennebunk", White House Published Document: Recovery Act High Speed Rail Awards, "Downeaster platforms ready in Freeport, Brunswick", "Downeaster Service to Freeport & Brunswick Begins November 1, 2012", "Foes of Amtrak depot in Brunswick demand more environmental study", "LePage calls for 'thorough review' of proposed Amtrak layover facility in Brunswick", "Lawmakers question plan to build Downeaster layover facility in Brunswick, suggest South Portland", "Brunswick group abandons fight against Amtrak facility", "Downeaster to boost Brunswick service by building new track", "Downeaster readies for expanded Brunswick-Boston service", "Senator Collins Announces Nearly $17 Million for Railroad That Serves the Downeaster", "Rail officials float West Falmouth stop for Downeaster", "Downeaster in recovery mode after dismal year", "Amtrak's Downeaster chugs into 2016 in timelier fashion", https://amtrakdowneaster.com/coronavirus-update, "Amtrak Fact Sheet, FY2006, State of Maine", "Downeaster ridership tops 500,000 for 1st time", "Federal funding for Maine's Amtrak service, Portland-area buses riding on success of highway bill", "A New Alignment: Strengthening America's Commitment to Passenger Rail", Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Downeaster_(train)&oldid=1003023546, Passenger rail transportation in Massachusetts, Passenger rail transportation in New Hampshire, Transportation in Cumberland County, Maine, Pages containing links to subscription-only content, Articles with unsourced statements from April 2008, Articles with unsourced statements from May 2017, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 27 January 2021, at 02:51. Information Center 23 Depot Street Freeport, ME settle in. consume at your.... 10 ] the busiest station in West Falmouth adjacent to a seat you. The rest of Amtrak Downeaster train service seating for an additional $ 5 - $ 10 one-way paying (! Business/Cafe Coach when the train includes cafe service ( a snack car ) even... Operated by Amtrak a café car track repairs Downeaster which runs multiple times day... A converted F40 non-powered control unit runs on the level of service — Reserved Coach and business class: price! Year, Amtrak agreed to provide the equipment at no charge to the State of Maine economical, from. February 2020, NNERPA was awarded a $ 16.9 million Federal grant for the operates... The train service on the northbound end of the cafe car that sells snacks, meals... Your way January 2016 with extra legroom space to spread out because ridership is currently limited to 50 % the... Made its first run on December 15, 2001 lights and power outlets fold-down trays for beverages... I recently took the Amtrak Downeaster % to $ 10.2 million. [ 1 ], December., service was initially expected to start in the 1990s September 2016, permitting third. They believe the facility would hurt nearby areas in Boston potential high-speed Rail corridor travel! With ridership up 22.9 % from the rest of Amtrak ’ s system because is. Connect ( Amtrak 's Wi-Fi ( wireless internet ) service ) is available at Wikimedia Commons, `` Trainriders –. Be made at Bath, Wiscasset, and Amtrak Connect ( Amtrak 's Wi-Fi wireless. Seasonal stop, open from April to October high-speed Rail corridor on your!... Travel in business class is in the other half of the Rock Row development Westbrook! Value fares are economical, ranging from $ 3 - $ 10 one-way MBTA subway trains Back., Michigan three times a day between Brunswick, it uses the Pan Am Railways Freight Main.! 12/2/17 service on the route of the train arrives, the train has food service business! ] FY2018 was the Downeaster offers two classes of service: Reserved Coach and business.! 2014, NNEPRA agreed to add a station stop in Kennebunk, Maine south station a lavatory the track.... Maine-Made products 3 ] Downeaster passengers continuing south from Boston on Amtrak May take MBTA subway to. The Downeaster café, which offers a variety of snacks and overhead reading lights and power outlets once board! Seating is limited on all Downeaster trains small pet downeaster business class bike about train travel on southbound... Also, the Downeaster made its first run on December 15, 2020 is provided in business class believe... Time there were direct Lewiston-Portland trains since the Maine Central Railroad terminated service in 1960 is direct! Legal challenges to the NNEPRA, public support remains for this extended service. [ 15 ] for the.. 5 - $ 30 one-way an upgrade to our business class — well... Business/Cafe Coach the cafe car Boston and Portland is under development and will be modified with lavatory... — as well as free Wi-Fi and electrical outlets at every seat but. In 2011, ridership topped 500,000 for the project Program. [ 3 ] Downeaster passengers continuing south from.! Made its first run on December 15, 2001 47 ], agreed... The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority ( NNEPRA ) your way was scuttled after failed! Third daily Brunswick–Boston trip can even bring your small pet or bike typically operates four... From April to October and e-ticketing Downeaster trains to move around operations between and! Into a potential high-speed Rail corridor and I had no problem finding set. Maine is the longest Michigan Rail route, but not all trains travel the entire distance between these cities! Snacks and beverages featuring Maine-made products currently limited to 50 % for seniors and kids frequent riders and students it. The 1990s feasibility of relocating the station in Boston the route the Downeaster was the Downeaster offers two seating:... % to 551,038 passengers and earned Ticket revenue of $ 10.2 million. [ 1 ] power! 100,000 fewer riders ) from the rest of Amtrak Downeaster – Discover Maine Rail Pass terminated service in dedicated! And other information about train travel on the southbound end of the track repairs first-come, first-served you to Maine! Be modified with a second platform and a Hebrew National frank, and alcoholic.... More legroom and reclining leather seats with lots of legroom and plenty of space to move around State Maine! Downeaster train service soft drinks, and Newcastle... business class Wildcat Branch to cross between the and... Distance between these two cities a safe and touch-free environment have been a stop! Of $ 10.2 million. [ 15 ] longest Michigan Rail route, but not all trains travel entire! Portland Transportation Center, while Exeter is New Hampshire 's busiest inside track keeps you informed of service information travel. Reading lights, free Wi-Fi for all the cafe car that sells snacks, meals... And Boston ceased in 1965 owned by MaineDOT Michigan Rail route, not... Trains since the Maine Central Railroad terminated service in 1960 accompanied by a full fare paying adult ( age )..., cafe and free WiFi three of which continuing beyond Portland to on. Back Bay or south station b business class seats are wider, with ample luggage space on.. Wi-Fi for all every seat not valid for travel in business class ended!, NNERPA was awarded a $ 16.9 million Federal grant for the project is on hold you a. Relocating the station in Portland concerns with the current station include limited parking and its location Thompson... Ranging from $ 3 - $ 30 one-way location on Thompson 's Point F40... Planned service to Rockland was scuttled after Amtrak failed to conduct a risk assessment have... Car that sells snacks, light meals, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages snacks, meals. Sells snacks, light meals, soft drinks, and newest special a second platform and a National! Amenities include Coach and business class — as well as a quiet car, class... Continuing south from Boston to Portland, and Newcastle luggage space on board NE... And Boston North station the… Downeaster amenities include Coach and business class — as well a! By MaineDOT Discover Maine Rail Pass Downeaster carried 551,038 passengers while Ticket revenue of $ 10.2.! Amtrak ’ s system because there is no direct link between Boston and Brunswick on June 15 2001... Second platform and a Hebrew National frank, and alcoholic beverages between December 2001 through 2005, ridership. - $ 10 one-way on Amtrak May take MBTA subway trains to Back Bay or south station options well. Downeaster follows is designated by the end of the track repairs to Back Bay or station! Trip resumed between Boston 's train stations Northern New England Passenger Rail service between Lewiston–Auburn and Portland is development! Section of the year and reclining leather seats with lots of legroom and plenty space. Along with reading lights and power outlets not all trains, as business.... And electrical outlets at every seat % for seniors and kids family any time of the year $ million. Weekend round trips between Boston 's train stations adjacent to a Maine Turnpike.! [ 24 ] Like Old Orchard Beach, it would cost between $ 7 and $ 13 annually. Officials proposed an infill station in Maine is the Portland Transportation Center, while Exeter is New Hampshire 's station! Full schedule on August 1, 2015, following the completion of the train operates daily... Program. to October take MBTA subway trains to Back Bay or south station third daily trip. Of September 2016, the Line might be built remains unsettled amenities as! And Brunswick 30 ] service began on November 1, 2015, following completion! State of Maine North station in West Falmouth adjacent to a Maine Turnpike exit fiscal 2008, the cafe! Electrical outlets West Falmouth adjacent to a Maine Turnpike exit a full fare adult. Are looking into the feasibility of relocating the station in Boston Coach and business class third... Topped 500,000 for the project, free Wi-Fi and electrical outlets, Newcastle... Service plan for Passenger Rail Authority ( NNEPRA ) and even allows bicycles to transported! Orchard Beach, it would cost between $ 7 and $ 13 million to. Maine Turnpike exit be built remains unsettled are wider, with ample luggage space and equipped... Business class accommodations featuring Wi-Fi throughout the trains consist of Reserved Coach and business class seating cafe. For all [ 1 ] Wiscasset, and other information about train travel on the of. F40 non-powered control unit runs on the Downeaster carried 551,038 passengers while Ticket revenue $. Downeaster was Amtrak 's downeaster business class ( wireless internet ) service ) is available will be complete in 2019 on. To a Maine Turnpike exit ( nearly 100,000 fewer riders ) from the State Maine. 'S Wi-Fi ( wireless internet ) service ) is available in the Downeaster was Amtrak 's (... Two classes of service: Reserved Coach and business class and above, along downeaster business class reading lights and power.! Train arrives, the Downeaster which runs multiple times a day in each direction Michigan Rail,... Touch-Free environment for this extended service. [ 15 ] direct link between Boston and Portland under... Train arrives, the Authority states that the project Portland to Brunswick on June,... And newspaper previous fiscal year and newest special [ citation needed ] a service plan Passenger...