But keep in mind that a private-operator cruise train over BNSF or UP routes will still be subject to the same issues as Amtrak: single-track capacity on one hand, delays due to fires, mudslides, derailments, bridge and tunnel collapses, etc. These, I think, have become statistically problematic. The Alaska cruise trains run in good-weather seasons and on mostly light-traffic routes. And on Fairbanks-Anchorage, the whole hotel and bus experience is under the cruise company's control, unlike Amtrak, where if the train gets into LA or Seattle at 3 AM, the passenger is on his own.

The Napa Valley Wine Train model is on a route under the full control of the operator. I'm not sure if a cruise train private operator would want to try to deal wit the business or operating environment of operating overnight over BNSF or UP.

The whole long-distance Amtrak experience is deteriorating to the point were I think the only serious solution is to eliminate it a la Mexico.