The Premium Class Coach on the SGR – Let’s Talk about it!

Do we need another SGR post on this blog? Yes! Yes, we do! Because this one is about the SGR premium class coach that Kenya Railways Corporation recently introduced. I got to experience it firsthand during my “Safari and the Beach” trip, and I’m excited to share all the details with you!

My recent railway journey took me across Kenya’s beautiful landscapes, from the bustling capital of Nairobi to the coastal city of Mombasa. I then travelled from Mombasa to Voi, the gateway town to Tsavo National Park, before completing the circuit back to Nairobi.

I travelled in the premium class coach for both the Nairobi to Mombasa and Voi to Nairobi segments of my journey, and here are the ways it differs from first and economy class.

So, what’s different about the SGR Premium Class?

I have written about the SGR Intercounty and Express trains, and most of the details in these posts apply to passengers taking the new premium class coach. The most immediate difference begins with booking.

Booking a Seat on the SGR Premium Class

Unlike first and economy class, where seat assignment is random, premium class passengers enjoy the privilege of selecting their preferred seats. Additionally, premium class offers the convenience of booking round-trip journeys in a single transaction.

And speaking of seat selection, if you’re wondering which seats are best on this train, check out my first post in this series where I share more details about the best seats to choose if you want great, unobstructed views of Tsavo National Park as the train passes through.

Checking in as an SGR Premium Class Passenger

As for the check-in process, at the time of this writing, premium class passengers go through the same security lines as other classes upon entering the Terminus complex. These set of passengers do not need a printed ticket and can proceed straight to the waiting area via a separate gate.

Inside the building, premium class passengers get access to an exclusive lounge featuring more comfortable seating than what’s available in the first and economy class waiting areas. As an added benefit, premium class travellers are invited to board the train a few minutes before other passengers.

The SGR Premium Class Experience

The new coach class provides more spacious seating and enhanced services, including an excellent meal service that I particularly enjoyed. Since I travelled on both morning and afternoon trains, I had the opportunity to try both breakfast and lunch served onboard. I’m not sure if vegetarian menu options are available on these trains, but it would be worth inquiring about them when you book your ticket.

Overall, I found the entire journey quite enjoyable. After experiencing all the classes, I can confidently say that first and premium class coaches offer the best comfort, while economy class is good for travellers on a budget or those travelling shorter distances.

It is worth noting that these premium sections aren’t always peaceful. During my return trip from Voi to Nairobi, I shared the coach with a family whose young children were quite energetic and vocal. Fortunately, I had my noise-cancelling headphones, so they didn’t bother me.

An attendant kindly offered to relocate me, but I declined since I was comfortable. Just something to consider if you’re paying extra for premium class – the higher price doesn’t guarantee a quiet journey.

After the Ride…

Upon arrival in Mombasa, premium class passengers were directed towards a different exit that was less congested than other sections. However, in Nairobi, this was not the case, as there were no dedicated lanes for premium class passengers.

And now, to the question of the hour – is the SGR premium class worth the hefty price tag?

The SGR Premium Class – Is It Worth It?

On this particular trip, I rode in both the first class and premium-class coaches. Honestly, I felt very comfortable in the first-class coach. I did enjoy my ride in premium class – I liked the feeling of luxury and the several little perks that came with this upgrade. The seats were comfortable and spacious, and the meals and service were great. I don’t enjoy flying, so I don’t mind the longer time spent on board, even when a flight costs only slightly more and saves time.

My verdict is this: if you’re a mid-budget traveller going the whole way from Nairobi to Mombasa and back, the first class train is suitable. If you would like to treat yourself and your family (perhaps you have older family members who need a little more comfort), or you’re just craving a “business class on land” experience, then you can opt for the premium class seat.

Personally, I have tasted this luxury, and there is no going back for me! Lol. I think I will always stick to this class of travel when I journey down to the coast 🙂

The SGR Premium Class Coach FAQ

I’ll wrap this post up with a quick FAQ, but do leave any other questions you have in the comment section, and I’ll be happy to answer them!

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Have you travelled on the Kenya SGR Premium Class from Nairobi to Mombasa? I’d love to hear about your experience. Please share them in the comment section below!