Dovecote
OBS Chief
My wife and I recently completed an Acela first class trip from NYP to WAS with continuing service to HFY on the Capitol Limited. This was our first experience with first class service on an Acela train. The primary reason for taking first class was to receive 750 rail points and reach AGR select status for 2010.
Prior to the start of our travel we took advantage of the first class perks by staying in the NYP Club Acela lounge. This was a good alternative to staying in the lobby with the masses waiting to board New Jersey Transit and other Amtrak trains. The lounge had complimentary fresh coffee and beverages for the guests. An announcement was made when the train arrived in the station informing us to proceed to the appropriate gate for boarding.
At track level we were directed to the first class car and proceeded to our seats. We selected two seats toward the front of the car near the food/beverage galley. Leather seating with a middle armrest was a nice touch to the spacious seats. One of our two car attendants welcomed us on the train after departing NYP and offered us a complimentary beverage. The beverage list consisted of spirits, cordials, beer, wine, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sodas, and bottled water. We ordered a mixed drink and were quickly served. Accompanying our drinks was a snack mix primarily containing mixed nuts.
About a half-hour into the trip we placed our lunch order. The menu choice consisted of either a fish, meat, or vegetarian selection. There was also a “small plate” selection for those preferring a lighter meal. Our meal was served around forty-five minutes into the trip and was well enjoyed. After the meal we ordered an after dinner cordial and proceeded have another one later.
Our car attendants were very attentive during the majority of the trip. However after leaving Wilmington the service was non-existent. They became focused on discussing Amtrak matters with the conductor at the expense of serving the passengers. This was somewhat of a letdown but our experience was positive none the less. We would certainly use this service again.
We arrived in WAS on time and proceeded directly to the Club Acela lounge to wait for our connecting train to HFY. The train was very close to passenger capacity at the start of the trip. The car attendant later informed me that the train was sold out going into Pittsburgh.
Until next trip,
Dovecote
Prior to the start of our travel we took advantage of the first class perks by staying in the NYP Club Acela lounge. This was a good alternative to staying in the lobby with the masses waiting to board New Jersey Transit and other Amtrak trains. The lounge had complimentary fresh coffee and beverages for the guests. An announcement was made when the train arrived in the station informing us to proceed to the appropriate gate for boarding.
At track level we were directed to the first class car and proceeded to our seats. We selected two seats toward the front of the car near the food/beverage galley. Leather seating with a middle armrest was a nice touch to the spacious seats. One of our two car attendants welcomed us on the train after departing NYP and offered us a complimentary beverage. The beverage list consisted of spirits, cordials, beer, wine, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sodas, and bottled water. We ordered a mixed drink and were quickly served. Accompanying our drinks was a snack mix primarily containing mixed nuts.
About a half-hour into the trip we placed our lunch order. The menu choice consisted of either a fish, meat, or vegetarian selection. There was also a “small plate” selection for those preferring a lighter meal. Our meal was served around forty-five minutes into the trip and was well enjoyed. After the meal we ordered an after dinner cordial and proceeded have another one later.
Our car attendants were very attentive during the majority of the trip. However after leaving Wilmington the service was non-existent. They became focused on discussing Amtrak matters with the conductor at the expense of serving the passengers. This was somewhat of a letdown but our experience was positive none the less. We would certainly use this service again.
We arrived in WAS on time and proceeded directly to the Club Acela lounge to wait for our connecting train to HFY. The train was very close to passenger capacity at the start of the trip. The car attendant later informed me that the train was sold out going into Pittsburgh.
Until next trip,
Dovecote
