The first passengers will be welcomed on board the inaugural service of the new Caledonian Sleeper train franchise from Fort William this evening.
The new service now run by Serco will see a range of improvements on board, including a transformed menu showcasing the best of Scotland’s food and drink, comfortable soft furnishings and new Arran Aromatics sleep packs to aid relaxation and a good night’s sleep.
Marking the new franchise, Peter Strachan, Serco’s Managing Director for the Caledonian Sleeper, will unveil the distinctive new livery with its midnight teal base colour and distinctive white stag antler motif.
Guests boarding at Fort William station will be greeted by traditional Highland bagpipe music from Spud the Piper and hosts wearing the striking new uniforms. Further services will depart as scheduled from around the UK following the Fort William departure.
Transport Minister Derek Mackay said, “The new Caledonian Sleeper service promises to be so much more than a commuter rail trip. The exciting plans will see the journey become a tourism draw in itself, and to realise the Scottish Government’s ambition for the service to be emblematic of the best of Scotland.
“It won’t just be passengers who benefit. Small and medium-sized Scottish businesses up and down the country are involved in supplying the new service and staff will have the opportunity to receive qualification-level training.
“From today, passengers can immediately start to enjoy the new catering offering and hospitality-style service, and this kicks off the countdown to the £150million fleet of new Sleeper trains due to arrive in 2018.”
A new booking and reservation system, sleeper.scot allows passengers to plan and book their travel up to 12 months in advance, a first for any UK rail operator.
In 2018 a new fleet will launch, with a range of new features, including ensuite berths, Pod flatbeds and a brasserie-style Club Car. Over £150million is being invested in the new fleet which is part funded by a £60million capital grant from Scottish Ministers and will be built by leading rolling stock manufacturer Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF).