About 4 years ago I wrote that this is the perfect way to visit the Grand Canyon. That same advice mostly holds true today. Great way to relax and enjoy the sights along with a cocktail if you wish on the way to and from the canyon. As on the previous trip we booked first class accommodations. First class is about mid range price wise and gives you comfortable seats, a great view, and a few snacks and non alcoholic beverages on both trips. Out car hostess, Al or Red (she answered to both) was excellent, fun, and informative. She also mixes a mean cocktail if you choose to imbibe. Our trip included a buffet lunch at the Maswik Lodge at the canyon upon arrival. My advice is SKIP THE BUFFET AND EAT ON YOUR OWN! The buffet was very marginal at best. We were somewhat disappointed in our tour bus driver, Oscar.
He didn't seem very enthusiastic and did not provide a lot of historic information on the Grand Canyon. We thought some of the information he provided was inappropriate (such as how much rent he paid to live at that canyon). I could be wrong but I think we visited 3 vistas on the last tour trip we booked but on this trip Oscar only took us to 2 vistas. The return trip to Williams was fun again and included the "surprise" train holdup.