Discussions regarding the Night Train Foundation proposal have resumed, and the overnight train connecting Boston and Montreal, Quebec, Canada has renewed interest.
François Rebello of Montreal spearheaded the idea back in 2013, but the bold proposal was overlooked due to its lofty funding requirements projected to be upwards of $100 million. Now, funding is more accessible, and the Québécois want to get the wheels turning on the project.
While the discussion of the project is only now being renewed, much of the transit would be on existing tracks, so projections to launch in 2025 aren’t unreasonable.
Route between Montreal and Boston
The proposed 17-stop route would travel from Boston through parts of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Once across the border, there would be 7 Canadian stops on the route, with a final destination of Montreal:
- Boston
- Durham, NH
- Gorham, NH
- Berlin, NH
- Old Orchard Beach, ME
- Portland, ME
- Bethel, ME
- Auburn, ME
- Island Pond, Vermont
- Candiac, CAN
- Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, CAN
- Farnham, CAN
- Bromont, CAN
- Magog, CAN
- Sherbrooke, CAN
- Coaticook, CAN
- Montreal, CAN
How long is the trip?
The trip is expected to take a total of 14 hours to travel from Boston to Montreal.
When will the route become available?
While the idea broached in 2013, it remained idle until September 2022, when about 60 Québécois officials reconvened to start planning. At this rate, we can expect a launch in 2025 or 2026.
The proposed route would need cooperation and approval from 4 different railroad companies that own the different tracks needed to connect the cities. Repairs would be necessary, especially in Canada where train speed is restricted to 25 miles per hour.
How much will tickets cost?
One-way tickets are slated to start from $160.
How many seats will be on the train?
As an overnight train there will be 120 sleeper options in addition to 70 regular coach seats. The overnight train would depart around 6 PM and arrive around 9 AM. The scenic route would also include a special dining car for guests to enjoy the ride!