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- We paid $1,586 to book a private room and bring our car on the Amtrak Auto Train. For us, the pros outweighed the cons. (businessinsider.com)
A recent journey on Amtrak’s Auto Train offered a unique travel experience combining convenience and comfort, despite some minor challenges.
The author and a friend traveled from Virginia to Florida aboard the Auto Train, bringing their car along and booking a private bedroom for two at a cost of $1,586 one-way. While the fare may seem steep, it compared favorably against the alternative of flying and renting a car for an extended stay in Florida.
The Auto Train route is unique in Amtrak’s system, running nonstop between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, covering the distance in just over 17 hours. This nonstop service allowed passengers to relax through much of the trip without concern for missing stops.
The private bedroom accommodation, roughly 7 by 7 feet, featured a single chair, a sofa that converted into beds, and a small private bathroom. Passengers were attended to by a personal attendant who assisted with bedding arrangements and provided water. While the bathroom was notably compact and the shower space limited, the convenience of a private space and attendant service enhanced the experience.
Meals were included with the private rooms, and the dining car provided surprisingly enjoyable fare, including options like steak, chicken, salmon, or pasta, complemented by salad, dessert, and complimentary wine. Breakfast offered lighter fare such as quiche and beverages. The atmosphere in the dining car was pleasant and communal, with passengers from diverse backgrounds sharing stories and laughter.
Sleeping on the train presented some difficulties; the beds were cozy but small, and the gentle rocking did not guarantee restful sleep for everyone. Despite this, the author appreciated having a proper bed rather than attempting to rest in a seat.
A significant advantage of the Auto Train is the ability to bring one’s vehicle along, circumventing the need for long drives or rental cars upon arrival. This feature particularly benefits travelers planning longer stays who require their own transportation.
Overall, the trip proved to be a valuable alternative to driving or flying, offering comfort, the convenience of having a car at the destination, and the pleasure of a relaxed overnight journey. The author expressed willingness to travel via the Auto Train again, particularly opting for a private room, while advising shorter trips to carefully evaluate costs.
This travel option continues to appeal to those seeking to combine the benefits of rail travel with the practicality of personal vehicle use.