J 611 posted:Robert K posted:611 excursions sucked because NS didn’t allow open windows or vestibules.
Unfortunately expensive insurance policies and over litigious Americans didn’t allow for open windows or vestibules on the 21st century iteration of Norfolk Southerns steam program. I dontated to FireUp611 and I am happy to see the locomotive run again and had several opportunities to see her do so. The ONLY reason I did not ride any of the excursions was the no open window policy. I don’t see the point to shell out big money to sit in a steel tube where I can’t even hear or see the locomotive. Unfortunately that’s just the way it had to be.
While I would agree about the coaches in general, I was 2 coaches back from the engine on a Manassas-Front Royal trip and got to see and hear plenty on that line's curves and grades, even through the window. I would also say that riding in the dome car Stampede Pass up Christiansburg Grade in the rain was pretty thrilling, in fact I would gladly do that again.
At the same time, I do get the appeal of open windows/vestibules, I rode the vestibule of Stampede Pass up the east slope of the Poconos in Sept.2015 when #765 visited Steamtown.
