The Blue Train is preparing to take to the tracks once more, this time during the COVID-19 epidemic. The service is expected to be available as soon as June 30, 2020.
Linking Africa’s south and north, The Blue Train meanders along the breathtaking mountain ranges and desert areas on the continent, allowing its guests to take in unbelievable scenery in the classic setting of a steam engine locomotive.
The unique service closed its doors in March when South Africa’s lockdown was announced and has been unable to welcome travellers since, but a new date announced for the resumption of services is just the ticket.
‘This is an uncertain time and it requires us all to be cautious as we anticipate a return to economic activity. Resuming operations is dependent on further pronouncements from the government of South Africa, but in the meantime, we will get The Blue Train ready for operation in a COVID-19 era,’said Vincent Monyake, Executive Manager at The Blue Train in a press release.
A number of health and safety protocols will make The Blue Train travel-ready during the COVID-19 epidemic.
“Our service offering is a flagship South African tourism experience and our drive is to ensure that when travel and tourism activities resume, The Blue Train will be ready to afford our guests the perfect experience of South Africa’s finest luxury rail experience,” adds Monyake.
Government directives will be followed aboard the train, with regular symptom checks being conducted as well as the use of personal protective equipment and social distancing.
Those who were meant to travel aboard the locomotive have been given the chance to take advantage of the cancellation policy. Guests originally meant to travel between March and August have a few options. Travellers can transfer their tickets to friends or family who would like to travel between June and August 2020, postpone their tickets to a later date from September to December 2021 or cancel altogether and receive a full refund.
The Blue Train’s Standard Terms and Conditions will apply to cancellations, postponements and transfers after August 2020.
Over the next few weeks The Blue Train will keep patrons informed about the ongoing national response to COVID-19 and their personal measures.
Guests who require more information can contact The Blue Train’s reservation team at the Pretoria office on +27(0)12-334-8459 or the Cape Town office on +27(0)21-449-2672 or on email [email protected]
Picture: Facebook