OVERVIEW

The North Borneo Railway features a British Vulcan steam locomotive. The engine is designed for wood burning, a costly yet more environmental form of steam. Stepping into the engine is an opportunity to jump back into the shoes of a child, bringing back childhood dreams of pulling on the whistle as the massive train rolls through the countryside.

 

The train also features five Japanese-designed carriages that have been meticulously restored and renovated to reflect the era of the steam train. Although the carriages were built in the 1970s, both the exterior and interior provide an environment that is typical of stepping onto a train in the 1900s. The exterior utilizes the traditional deep green and cream of the original North Borneo Railway, with carved brass logos on the sides measuring 3 feet by 2 feet on each carriage. The interior highlights the natural woods of Sabah. Each set seats four passengers, with a table in between to facilitate the dining experience.

 

Each carriage also features a unisex washroom, providing the amenities of a modern bathroom onboard the train. Each carriage accommodates 16 passengers, with a total train capacity of 80 passengers. Windows remain open throughout the journey to enhance the overall heritage experience, and high-powered fans line the ceilings to ensure maximum comfort. A British Pullman carriage is in tow for the entire journey, functioning as a kitchen car as well as a generator. The kitchen has been customized to cater for the unique tiffin-style dining concept.