VIA Rail announced on June 21, 2016, that it is entering a new partnership with Maritime Bus that will allow passengers to book Maritime Bus tickets through VIA Rail. Starting July 14, passengers will be able to see bus options and purchase Maritime Bus tickets through VIA’s website.
This partnership will allow passengers to book connections between VIA and Maritime Bus to access destinations not served by VIA, or to book bus tickets on days and times when VIA’s trains are not running. This would, for example, make it easier for people to plan a trip where one direction is on the train, and the other is on a bus due to the days of operation of the Ocean.
Here is an excerpt from the press release announcing the new agreement:
“Maritime Bus believes transportation companies have a responsibility to connect communities and allow the travelling public access to cost effective sustainable travel options. “Being able to partner with VIA Rail shows how both companies understand the importance of working together”, reflects Mike Cassidy, President of Maritime Bus. “Having two competing transportation services willing to share train and bus infrastructure for the benefit of their passengers shows total commitment to the marketplace. We are proud of this new Intermodal Partnership which has the Maritime Region at heart.”
“Providing a simple and seamless travel experience is what will encourage people to leave their car behind and travel with Maritime Bus and VIA Rail. This agreement is part of our strategy aimed at increasing the mobility of Canadians while reducing their carbon footprint”, said Yves DesjardinsSiciliano, President and CEO of VIA Rail. “By making travel on an integrated network of carriers more convenient and attractive, this initiative will help residents from communities across the Maritimes to travel within the region and beyond by connecting to the Ocean train for a trip to Montréal. It also encourages all Canadians to discover the beauty of the Eastern provinces.”
“Over the past months, VIA Rail has made preparations to receive many passengers onboard the Ocean train during the summer, a peak period for train travel between Montréal and Halifax”, added Susan Williams, General Manager, Eastern Canada, at VIA Rail. “Thanks to the integration of Maritime Bus’ and VIA Rail’s networks, we are glad to offer our passengers the possibility to easily plan a trip to take part in the many attractions Canada’s Maritime Provinces offer. Now exploring the impressive Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, visiting the stunning Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia or going to the beautiful Prince Edward Island will be easier and more convenient for our customers.”
You can read the full press release HERE.
