Port Alberni Vancouver Island British Columbia - After six years without any steam, the Number 7 steam locomotive Santa Train is hitting the Port Alberni Railway this holiday season and giving families a historic ride, starting 7 Dec 2024.
 
Number 7 stopped running in July 2018 due to boiler issues.
 
"Three boiler tubes ruptured during a run," said Richard Spencer, Manager of the Alberni Pacific Railway and Vice President of the Industrial Heritage Society of Western Vancouver Island.
 
After the breakdown occurred, a group of volunteers, along with the City of Port Alberni got together to fix the boilers (sic), on minimal funding.
 
Spencer estimates repairs amounted to roughly $70,000, with help from Port Alberni, other investors and one anonymous donor contributing $20,000.
 
The Santa Train had its first test run on 28 Nov 2024 and turned heads as chugged through town.
 
"All families love to be riding on a train especially when it's on a stream train and you have that smell and sound. It brings a nostalgic and exciting feel to it," he said.
 
Spencer says he's excited to see more smiling faces come out and enjoy the ride.
 
"I was born and raised riding the train as a passenger so I personally have very fond memories and that's why I'm so excited about this. To take the memories that I had as a kid and give it to all these new generations, to give them some exciting opportunities."
 
The Port Alberni Railway ran a logging train in the early 1900s, followed by freight in the 1950s, and passenger runs in the late 1980s.
 
"We've been operating our [passenger] railroad for 40 years now," said Spencer.
 
Passenger tours ran from town and out to the Mclean mill National Historic Site.
 
It's an experience Spencer hopes will continue for many years to come.
 
What to Expect
 
Starting Saturday, 7 Dec 2024, the Santa Train will take passengers along the shores of Port Alberni for a 35 minute tour.
 
"There are great views along the route. You're half in the forest, half in the city," said Spencer.
 
"It's a family event for Christmas and Santa will be on board the train visiting with children."
 
The Christmas steam locomotive runs four times each day on the following dates, 7, 8, 14 and 15 Dec 2024, and at the following times, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, and 15:00.
 
Liz Brown.