VIA Rail Canada has marked an incredible achievement at its Halifax Station, as The Ocean, Canada’s oldest named passenger train, is celebrating 120 years of operation. As a vital lifeline throughout the Maritimes, The Ocean has been an iconic Canadian travel experience that has brought generations of passengers to Canada’s magnificent scenery and to the stories of their lives.
For more than a century, The Ocean has been more than a train: It has been a tool of connection, chugging families, soldiers, students and countless others across the picturesque Maritimes. The train’s legacy is entangled with the history of Canada, from the mournful farewells of soldiers to the joyous homecomings at the holidays to the optimistic passages of students heading off to new chapters in their lives.
As Canada’s longest-named passenger train, The Ocean has played a key role in changing the way people travel in Canada and has created lasting memories and friendships along the way. Today’s anniversary is a celebration that pays homage to this lasting history, since the tradition continues to weave an important pattern through the tapestry of Canadian travel.
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To mark this momentous occasion VIA Rail, continues its transition to modernize its fleet, made possible in 2024 by the largest ever investment in VIA Rail’s History by the Government of Canada. This renewal program will be the largest in VIA Rail’s history and will see the introduction of new, accessible and environmentally sustainable trains that will provide an improved on-board experience for passengers from coast to coast.
But this fleet replacement is more than just the replacement of old trains. It’s a game changer that will improve customer comfort and convenience. The New Trains will be modern, more fuel-efficient and accessible to all Canadians for a safe, smooth and comfortable ride. The investment will also help to enhance the environmental sustainability of the rail system, supporting Canada’s efforts to address climate change.
The renewal of the fleet will cover all of the key routes, including those serving the remote northern communities where passenger rail is a lifeline. “The Ocean is a key piece in this renewal project; implementation of these improvements will ensure Canadian travelers have access to a reinvigorated, dependable service that reflects the needs and expectations of modern day travelers.
Restoration of the Halifax Railway Station: Preserving the Past and Preparing for the Future
The unveiling of the restored Halifax Station, a project that serves as a perfect example of balancing the preservation of The Ocean’s rich history with the positive way forward, was part of anniversary event festivities. The rehabilitation blends historic architectural components with new contemporary features that drive the transformation of the station as a travel center and also its role as rail system continues to evolve.
It’s a tangible way of keeping heritage in the past and future. While Halifax Station is still a gateway for those travelling east to the Maritimes, it represents a commitment to improving Canada’s passenger rail service and the cultural heritage of its heritage stations.
A Glowing Picture for Passenger Rail in Canada
Canada’s future in passenger rail is also one thing to remember on The Ocean’s 120th anniversary. While VIA Rail is further developing its offer, the company also has the ambition to create a more sustainable and inclusive rail system to connect people and communities from coast to coast. The current phase of fleet replacement and station refurbishment is only a taste of the broader opportunities for the future of rail travel in Canada.
Today, VIA Rail honours more than simply an illustrious legacy of the past but also a bright future of rail travel in this country. By upgrading the its services, the company is guaranteeing that younger generations will still have the same connections and experiences as The Ocean has offered for so many years.
The Symbol of Resilience, Connection and Innovation As a symbol of resilience, connection and innovation, the Ocean celebrates the proud tradition of passenger rail in Canada. Through continued investment in, and modernization of, services, VIA Rail is building the foundation for a more sustainable and accessible future for Canadian passenger rail travel and ensuring routes such as The Ocean, and all other iconic services, continue to connect communities across the country.
