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Oct 20, 2009:
Looking for a new way to enjoy some old-school charm?
Then get ready for a trip down the memory tracks of the Garden Route as the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is set to resume operation from 19 October 2009, ahead of the summer season.
Preserving a tourism icon.
Uncertainty arose about the operation of SA's iconic steam train after the service was suspended for necessary maintenance.
But Mossel Bay Tourism is happy to announce that trips will again be running along the George-Mossel Bay line, which has been in existence since 1907. The Choo Tjoe traditionally used to run along the George-Knysna line a few years ago but the re-route was put in place after this line was badly damaged by floods.
Garden Route splendour
Passengers can expect a unique yet scenic 52-kilometre journey with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean as well as rivers such as the Gwaiing, Malgate and Great Brak.
The Outenique Choo Tjoe departs from George at 10am, arriving in Mossel Bay at 12pm. It then departs from Mossel Bay at 2.15pm and arrives back in George at 4.10pm. Pit stop visits should include the Diaz Museum Complex as well as the Post Office tree, Aquarium, Granary, Maritime, Cultural and Shell Museums. (See Chris Roper's review of Protea Hotel Mossel Bay here)
Sensitive to preserving the environment
According to Onlinesources.co.za, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe may be forced to operate with diesel locomotives from time to time as the line runs through an ecologically sensitive area in which there is a considerable risk of veld fires. Transnet Heritage Preservation has since entered into an agreement with tourism authorities for steam traction to be replaced with vintage diesel locomotives on days when the Fire Danger Index exceeds 52.
Book your seat now
The train will run Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays out of season, and daily (except Sundays and Christmas Day) between 14 December and 9 January.
Tickets can be purchased from Mossel Bay Tourism (044 691 2202), at the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George (044 801 8289) or on the Choo Tjoe itself. The fare is R140 one way, or R180 return. Source: News24.com - www.news24.com
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