Amtrak is relaunching its Mardi Gras service, with twice-daily round trips between New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, starting August 18th. The service will include stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Amtrak spokesperson Marc Magliari confirmed the launch date and mentioned that tickets are already available for purchase.
“Amtrak Mardi Gras Service is a natural choice for the name of the new trains that will reflect the region’s distinctive culture,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Travel should be about more than just getting somewhere. Our goal is to have some of that festive Mardi Gras feeling on every trip, sharing the culture of the Gulf Coast region while connecting with the rest of the Amtrak network.”
“This summer, travellers seeking a more comfortable, scenic and productive choice than driving will have their first opportunity to ride Amtrak trains in almost 20 years,” Harris added.
In addition to travel between New Orleans and Mobile, the cities of Bay Saint Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi and Pascagoula will also have same-day connections in both directions daily to the famed Amtrak City of New Orleans trains between New Orleans and Chicago via Memphis. Amtrak Mardi Gras Service guests can also make next-day connections in New Orleans to Amtrak Crescent trains to and from New York via Atlanta, and Amtrak Sunset Limited trains to and from Los Angeles via Tucson, San Antonio and Houston.
“With the launch of the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service, we are not just restoring a transportation link; we are celebrating the vibrant culture and community spirit of the Gulf Coast,” said Joe Donahue, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. “This service will enhance connectivity, boost local economies and create memorable experiences for travellers who wish to explore the beautiful landscapes and rich heritage of our region.”
Guests will enjoy direct access to exciting cities and towns on trains with wide reclining seats, ample legroom, no middle seats and generous carry-on baggage allowances. With space reserved in advance, golf bags will be accepted and pets will be welcomed within appropriate weights with carriers.
Timetable: The Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will offer morning and evening departures from both New Orleans and Mobile.
Stops: The train will stop at Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Ticket Information: Adult coach fares start at $15 each way, with lower prices for shorter distances and discounts for children, students, seniors, and other groups.
For full details and bookings visit – www.amtrak.com
