Hi Wade! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us. How does it feel to work on such an iconic train?
We are a Canadian company and are proud to show off the stunning region to guests from all around the world. It is so amazing seeing the happy faces of our guests and such a pleasure making their time on the train a truly memorable experience.
What brought you to the world of Rocky Mountaineer?
While many of my classmates from a travel/tourism course were sending people to explore other parts of the world, I wanted to stay and show visiting people all the great things that Western Canada had to offer. None of the other travel providers offered a train on the Canadian Pacific Railway, the original tracks across Canada.
Do you have a favourite route or destination that you wind through?
For me, it has to be Rainforest to Gold Rush. I grew up in Lac La Hache and as a child, we could hear the train whistle and sometimes be able to watch the trains go by. On the Rainforest to Gold Rush route, the train travels along that same track, so it is really special for me.
What is your favourite time of year to journey through the Canadian Rockies and why?
Spring is a special time - the snow is melting and animals are out from hibernation. It’s a majestic time to see the Rockies.
Can you tell us a bit about the design of Rocky Mountaineer and how this enhances the journey?
Rocky Mountaineer has two levels of service: GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf. In either service level, guests have oversized windows to see the passing scenery and there are on board hosts in each coach to entertain guests with rich, historic storytelling and to point out interesting sites and wildlife along the way. In both services, guests enjoy gourmet cuisine, complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks throughout their journey.
Do you have any personal highlights from your time with Rocky Mountaineer?
I’ll never forget seeing a massive bull moose wading in the water of a passing river. The train slowed down so we could get an even better view and the moose just raised his head and watched us go past.
What can guests look forward to seeing on board?
The stunning scenery never gets old and I spend half a year on the train! The train slows down for the truly scenic moments and when we spot a bear, moose, mountain goat or any other iconic wildlife.
Do you have any top tips for our guests to make the most of their Rocky Mountaineer experience?
My number one tip for passengers is to prepare to unwind and reconnect with loved ones as you embark on a truly memorable trip through the Canadian Rockies. Try to soak it all in; it really is an experience like no other.
If you could describe the Rocky Mountaineer experience in just three words, what would they be?
Breathtaking, relaxing, memorable.
Why do you think our guests should enjoy a Rocky Mountaineer journey as part of their cruise experience?
Rocky Mountaineer runs from April to October, starting and/or finishing in Vancouver, so our season coincides perfectly with cruises to Alaska. It’s a great opportunity to see the wild beauty of the Western Canadian Rockies as well as Alaska and the coastline of the Pacific North West. I can imagine pairing the two would create an epic experience in one of the most rugged and beautiful regions of the world.
A huge thank you to Wade!
