Europe’s railways are undergoing a remarkable renaissance, with travellers increasingly seeking sustainable and scenic alternatives to air travel. In the same spirit, Austria’s state railway, ÖBB, has emerged as a pioneering force in the revival of overnight train services. In a bold move that caters to the changing preferences of modern travellers, ÖBB is poised to introduce a game-changing fleet of night trains. These trains are set to hit the tracks in December 2023. What sets these trains apart is not only their enhanced comfort and service but also their unique solo sleeping pods.
Sleeping Pod Accommodations Aboard European Trains
Thank you @unsereOEBB for the chance to have a closer look at the new generation Nightjet sleeper trains… pic.twitter.com/jlHQFyuMTK
— The Man in Seat 61 (@seatsixtyone) October 3, 2023
In the midst of Europe’s ongoing rail revolution, Austria’s state railway ÖBB, is set to introduce an upgraded 24/7 service. ÖBB is known for spearheading the resurgence of overnight train services in recent years. It has unveiled an impressive new fleet of 33 night trains, slated to make their debut in December 2023.
As per the reports from CNN, each train will comprise seven carriages. These trains can accommodate up to 254 passengers and are divided into two seating cars, three couchettes, and two sleeping cars. A notable departure from the typically Spartan sleeper train experience, ÖBB’s sleeping cars will feature private bathrooms, including showers, in every compartment. Fixed beds will offer increased comfort, and there will be ample space for oversized luggage, sports equipment, strollers, and even bike storage.
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ÖBB’s Game-Changing Night Trains
Was also able to see the PRM 4-berth couchette compartment… pic.twitter.com/tbsZUzyKyE
— The Man in Seat 61 (@seatsixtyone) October 3, 2023
CNN reports say travellers will have various options to choose from, including ensuite cabins for two in the Comfort Plus or Comfort spaces. The four-berth couchettes, while not ensuite, provide a practical solution for families. However, the true innovation lies in the “Mini Cabins”—single berths arranged in pod-like structures within the couchette cars. These cabins are stacked in two layers, akin to a dormitory, allowing passengers to enjoy privacy within their compact space.
Each pod is equipped with a foldaway breakfast table, a reading lamp, storage compartments, and lockers for personal items. Furthermore, ÖBB has ensured accessibility by including a couchette designed to accommodate up to two wheelchair users and two additional passengers, complete with an accessible toilet.
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This fleet had approval for use in Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. These trains are scheduled to commence service on December 10. They will operate on the Vienna-Hamburg and Innsbruck-Hamburg routes. Tickets for this revamped travel experience will be available for travel starting October 11.
As ÖBB celebrates its centenary, it proudly boasts the largest fleet of sleeper trains in Europe.
Cover Image Courtesy: The Man in Seat 61/X
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