Exploring Private Car Rentals on Amtrak: Cost, Process, and Benefits

Amtrak, the national passenger railroad, offers an exclusive service known as private car rentals. These rentals provide travelers with a luxurious and personalized experience, ranging from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per trip. Whether traveling as a group, chartering a train, or opting for a private car with amenities like sleeping accommodations and living room furniture, Amtrak's private car rental service can be a rewarding investment for dedicated travelers.

Understanding the Cost of Private Car Rentals

Typically, renting a private car on Amtrak can range significantly, from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per trip. This cost usually encompasses the entire car, making it more economical if you are traveling with a group. Prior to making a decision, it is crucial to understand that the price varies based on the configuration, including single or double-decker cars, and can range from 3 to 7 dollars per mile.

Traveling as a Group

If you and your travel companions form a group, you might be able to secure a group fare which can be more economical. Depending on the capacity of the car, the group might have other passengers. An Amtrak coach can accommodate anywhere between 60 to 72 people, while a double-decker car can seat more comfortably. If your group consists of fewer people than the car capacity, you may still have the option to travel privately.

Charting a Car or Train from Amtrak

Directly chartering a car or train from Amtrak is not a routine option as Amtrak typically does not have cars lying idle for potential use. However, influential connections can facilitate these arrangements, as demonstrated by former US President Joe Biden who chartered a train for his campaign. To ensure availability and secularity, it is always better to verify plans in advance with Amtrak's management.

Chartering a Genuine Private Car

A genuine private car attached to the back of an Amtrak train between major points is an option that is more feasible and offers a personalized experience. These private cars are often equipped with amenities like sleeper compartments and lounge spaces, designed to mimic a luxury living room. The cost of renting such a car can range from around 3 dollars a mile, subject to switching fees of about 500 dollars at each end, plus a charter fee which can range from multiples of thousands of dollars per day. Some private car owners include meals cooked on board, making this option particularly attractive for larger groups.

Example of a Private Car Rental with Amtrak

A notable example is the Amtrak/private car experience shared by the New York Wikipedia club during their trip from New York Penn Station to Montreal. Unlike typical Amtrak trips, where fares are fixed, our club president collected the normal fare (which we have since forgotten) from the members interested in the trip and purchased the necessary tickets, either 30 or 40 in number, meeting the minimum purchase requirement. The car was exclusively reserved for the members of the New York Wikipedians club, along with additional travelers from DC, Chicago, England, and Italy. While the initial cost might seem substantial, the group was able to share the expenses, making the trip a cost-effective and unforgettable experience. Additionally, the members were able to engage in discussions about Wikipolitics, deepening their professional and personal relationships.

Conclusion

While Amtrak private car rentals may seem like a luxury reserved for the elite, they offer a unique and personalized travel experience that can be highly beneficial for dedicated travelers. By understanding the pricing structure, exploring different travel options, and forming travel groups, the cost of these exclusive services can be made more manageable. Amtrak’s willingness to work with private car owners and the availability of amenities like sleeping accommodations and on-board meals make private car rentals a worthwhile and enchanting journey.