Is Amtrak's Business Class Worth the Extra $80? A Breakdown of the Ethan Allen Express Experience

Here's the deal: Amtrak's business class on the Ethan Allen Express promises an elevated experience for an extra $80. But is it worth it?

The Train Journey

Traveling from New York to Vermont on the Ethan Allen Express, many would assume that a business class upgrade enhances comfort significantly. On the surface, it might look enticing. Business class offers a separate car with larger seats, a free non-alcoholic drink, and access to single 'throne' seats, provided you board early enough to snag one. But that's where the most notable advantages end.

What about the seating arrangement? Business class boasts a 2x1 layout compared to the 2x2 in coach. Still, this hardly justifies the additional cost, especially when the comfort level difference is negligible. Traveling in the middle of the car, I quickly realized the upgrade felt more like a leap in theoretical benefits than practical ones.

So, what about dining? The café car, shared by all passengers, offers standard fare. A free soda or coffee hardly compensates for the $80 price hike. The mac and cheese, purchased during the return coach journey, proved to be a surprising highlight.

Analyzing the True Value

Are the minor conveniences of business class worth an extra $80? Not really. The substantial overlap between coach and business comfort and service means many might feel shortchanged. While business travelers might appreciate the solo seating for privacy, coach class already meets most needs, offering a comfortable ride with working amenities.

Who wins here? Ironically, it's Amtrak. Charging a premium for what amounts to a slight seating rearrangement is a savvy revenue strategy. But frequent travelers might start opting for coach, questioning the need for unnecessary expenditure.

Here's the thing: Amtrak's modernization efforts promise better trainsets in the future, but until then, the distinctions between classes remain slim. The real upgrade will come when new technologies and designs are introduced, making the journey itself a step above current offerings.

The Takeaway

If comfort and value are your priorities, stick to coach. It offers the same reliability and relative tranquility without the hefty price tag. With Amtrak planning network enhancements, it would be wiser to save that extra $80 for when those improvements materialize.

The chart is the chart, and right now, business class doesn't present a compelling case for most travelers. In the grand scheme, it's clear: for the typical Amtrak journey, coach class remains the more sensible choice.