Well finally got to experience the new stock on a Euston to Inverness trip last week.
Left on time and arrived on time,;maybe 2 mins early.
Booked in a classic solo and points that came to mind were.
. Friendly staff at coach check in, explained about key card and breakfast card. I didn't ask for breakfast or use lounge so can't comment there.
. Opening door , first impression was it was nice and smart but the aisle next to bed seemed narrower.
. Probably need to label the fact that there is a pull out table under sink, which once in place was very useful.
.basin is quite shallow and means can't get much water into it without the risk of it all slopping out when in motion
. Water temp was fine, but pressure not great and not a constant flow but a pulsing stream which is odd, not sure if a design or fault
. Guess the biggest change is the head space when using the top bunk. It's fair to say that it's not great and I've always tried to use the top for a smoother sleep, also no table or shelf for cups etc on top shelf either above the be or at the end of the bed like the previous stock had.
. Lights. Had to you card an paper to block out light that emits from around one of the buttons on both bunks. Once I'd n!kicked those 2, then was good.
. The window seems to have a device to allow it to be used as an emergency exit, but seems you can hear air . I blocked the thing by putting a pillow behind the tap and seemed to work.
. Mattress seems a bit thin as, almost futon like , as could feel the base (I'm not particularly heavy......or light!)
. As the mattress is quite thin, the sides of the bunk can be felt when moving. (I think this means that the bunk could be stowed)
.
. Sitting on lower bunk was comfortable having a beer and watching tablet.
. Sheets weren't scratchy and pillows/duvet good.
. The temperature control was good and the HVAC was quicker to respond to changes
. I wear ear plugs a lot so didn't hear loads of screeching, only heard door alarms once I think and that's before ear plugs
.I did make sure I tried to get as close to middle of coach, but from what I see on the berth plans, the best possible will be room 7.
. Guess the major difference which I felt (or didn't) was the 'snatching' that used to happen when the train was pulling away which meant a much smoother ride
. Though I woke up in the night, I managed to sleep through the splitting at Edinburgh which also good.
. Overall I'd certainly say I felt the ride was smoother overall which is a definite positive
The overall space in the cabin 'seems' slightly reduced and I think in twin mode is going to be cosy, I suppose strangers could share but overall I think I'm happier with solo use now.
Would use it again.