‘Near capacity’ opening weekend for Sea to Sky train
Whistler Mountaineer chugs into town under new name

Under the banner of a new name, the Whistler Mountaineer steamed its way to a near capacity opening weekend as it launched its summer season on May 14.

That “near capacity” weekend could be a sign of good things to come this summer for the re-branded “Rocky Mountaineer Whistler Sea to Sky Climb.”

“The weekend was outstanding,” said Ian Robertson, executive director, corporate communications and public affairs for Rocky Mountaineer Vacations.

“It’s a strong indication that we’re starting to see a rebound in the tourism sector.

“I think we’re hoping for a slight increase over last year and, given that the tourism economy is still recovering, if we could continue to grow our business on this particular route we’d be very satisfied with that.”

Despite last year’s overall dip in the tourism sector that saw the industry decline anywhere from 20 to 40 per cent, the Whistler route stayed strong. Its 2009 numbers were on par with its 2008 numbers, whereas the more renowned Rocky Mountaineer numbers declined in the realm of 20 per cent. The Rocky Mountaineer runs between Vancouver and Alberta.

“I think that was an indication of residents vacationing closer to home,” said Robertson.

At the same time, guests from 59 countries around the world have travelled the Whistler route.

Continue reading: By Alison Taylor, Pique News Magazine

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