A Calmer Journey to Moncton on The Ocean

By Dar Wournell

Recently, Yvon, my guide dog Demetris, and I took a trip from Halifax to Moncton aboard VIA Rail’s Ocean route--a choice made out of necessity, but one that led to unexpected comfort, dignity, and inclusion.

Why We Chose the Train

Demetris is a 90-pound black Goldador and my fifth guide dog. Since March, he’s developed a sensitivity to loud noises, especially on buses, in cars, or when surrounded by unpredictable sounds. Air brakes, heavy traffic, and the sound of an engine roar became too much for him. We knew the bus was off the table, so we turned to the train, hoping its gentler rhythm and predictable route would offer a quieter, more soothing alternative.

We left Halifax by taxi at 8 a.m., allowing time for bridge traffic. I’d given Demetris his prescribed anxiety medication the night before and again that morning. While he managed the cab ride, his body told a different story as he was uncertain with every movement. Still, I had hope the train would bring him peace.

Support From the Start

The VIA Rail staff in Halifax were exceptional. As a totally blind traveler with mobility challenges, I was met right at the door, assisted with check-in, our gear (including sports equipment), and given a lift by cart to the coach car.

At every step, they offered verbal orientation, explaining:

• The train layout

• Our seat location

• The location of accessible washrooms and emergency exits

• How to find and use seat controls

There are Braille and tactile signs in public areas across VIA Rail’s long-distance trains, and large-print safety cards and menus are available on request. While they’re not handed out automatically, staff will bring them if you ask.

Demetris in Coach Class

We were seated in a four-seat coach area without a center table which was ideal for Demetris to lie down and stretch. But the frequent clack of the inter-carriage doors proved too much for him. He jumped with every slam. We started closing them ourselves and spent time walking the vestibule to help him decompress.

By Truro, only an hour in, his panting intensified. I considered getting off the train entirely. But staff checked on us constantly and reassured us kindly. Their presence reminded me that we weren’t navigating this alone.

Finding Our Seats--Independently

As someone who is blind, I was pleasantly surprised to find Braille seat labels, which meant I didn’t have to rely on counting rows or needing visual assistance. A small but meaningful detail.

Washroom Accessibility

VIA Rail’s newer cars have accessible washrooms with wide, push-button doors, vertical and horizontal grab bars, and Braille-labeled buttons. However, the public washrooms in coach cars are not big enough for a guide dog and handler together. I had to ask Yvon to hold Demetris’s leash while using the facilities.

Guide Dog Relief Area Tips

In Halifax and Moncton, staff are more than willing to assist with relieving your guide dog before and after the trip. If your guide dog needs a break mid-journey, just let the service manager know as there’s a scheduled stop in Moncton with access to green space near the station.

The Return Trip--An Unexpected Gift

After a lovely weekend reconnecting with old friends and making new ones, we boarded the train back to Halifax from Moncton. The moment we stepped on, a staff member greeted Demetris by name which was a small gesture that meant a lot. But shortly after departure, his anxiety returned, worse than before. I was near tears, counting down the minutes until we could just be home again.

Then, something amazing happened.

Yvon spoke to the conductor, and they discovered that the accessible sleeper cabin was unexpectedly available. Without hesitation, they offered it to us at no extra charge. Although we had to walk 13 cars to get to the accessible room, I was overwhelmed to learn that there were five VIA Rail staff that helped us get to the accessible suite safely.

Discovering the Accessible Room

This space was everything we didn’t know we needed:

• A private room with a fold-down lower bunk and an upper bunk

• A fully accessible washroom with Braille-labeled buttons

• A foldable table and space for Demetris to lie comfortably beside me

• Soft lighting, privacy, and a quiet environment away from coach noise

Inside that room, Demetris finally relaxed. He curled into me, sighed deeply, and for the first time that day, we both found calm.

Had we booked this room ahead, the cost would’ve been around $1,000--a price I couldn’t have managed. But because of VIA’s compassion and flexibility, it became part of our story.

Accessibility Features on VIA Rail’s Ocean Route (Halifax-Moncton)

• Braille and large-print menus and safety cards (on request)

• Tactile signage and Braille-labeled controls in coach and sleeper cars

• Accessible sleeper cabins with private washrooms and more space for a guide dog

• Staff orientation and assistance locating seats and navigating the train

• Assistance with relieving your guide dog at stations

After the Trip--Adapting and Overcoming

After returning home, we took the advice of our guide dog school to address Demetris’s noise anxiety. Through patient training and gradual exposure, Demetris is adapting and overcoming much of his fear. He now travels more comfortably again, proving that with the right support, guide dogs, just like their handlers, can adjust and thrive.

Lessons Learned

• Book early—especially if you need an accessible sleeper cabin.

• Ask about relief areas and scheduled stops for guide dogs.

• Be clear about your needs - - staff can adapt, but only if they know what you require.

• Not all accessible washrooms fit a guide dog and handler; plan accordingly.

• Guide dogs deserve quiet, safe spaces too. When given, it can transform the journey.

Final Thoughts

Our trip to Moncton began as a way to protect Demetris from stress. It became a reminder that accessibility isn’t just about meeting standards--it’s about the people who make the journey possible.

From Halifax to Moncton and back, we found compassion on the rails. And thanks to both VIA Rail and the support of our guide dog school, Demetris and I are ready for many more adventures together--calmly and confidently.

ALT IMAGE TEXT FOR IMAGES BELOW:

Four images showing Dar and Demetris in the accessible room. Wide open room with couch and side counter at one end, bathroom at the other end with a curtain separating the two areas. Bright window, grab bars at toilet and sink, emergency call buttons in multiple places.