FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Don't let motor coach travel be intimidating. Find answers to the most common questions below. If you don't find what you're looking for, reach out to us. We're here to help you.
Planning
Q: What makes you different from the competition?
A: We understand you have options so we hope that by visiting our site, contacting us and getting to know us, you may decide that we're the right fit for you and your group. We are not a budget or discount carrier as our equipment is modern and has many luxurious upgrades and features not found anywhere else. With that being said, we offer very competitive pricing for all our services, including charters and tours. We are hands on operators and it isn't uncommon for our owners to be responsible for your trip. Our entire staff is dedicated to providing excellent service and we feel that your group will notice the difference when you travel with us.
Q: Where are you based and what's your service area?
A: We are a Manitoba based company with locations in Brandon & Winnipeg. We are proud to serve all of Manitoba and can arrange pick ups throughout the province.
Q: Where can we go using Compass Coach Lines?
A: Our motor coaches can travel throughout Canada and the continental U.S. You never know where you may see us. We are fully insured well above industry standards as we carry the highest level of liability insurance available.
Q: What does "chartering" mean?
A: When you charter a motor coach (bus), you have the entire vehicle to yourself. Your group will be the only passengers on board and you can create your travel plans to fit your schedule and needs.
Q: How many people can travel on the bus?
A: Each of our motor coaches has 56 seats. We can remove seats upon request for added leg room and comfort. If you have a large group, you can charter multiple motor coaches.
Q: How much storage space is there for luggage?
A: We can easily accommodate a standard 50lb suitcase for every person on board. We also offer enclosed overhead storage on board. Our motor coaches accommodate hockey teams and their equipment with ease.
Q: How much does it cost to charter a bus?
A: Prices vary based on the amount of time you require the motor coach, the distance travelled and time of year. Contact us to discuss pricing and get a free quote.
Q: Are there rules for how long a driver can be behind the wheel?
A: For your safety, Compass Coach Lines adheres to all federal and provincial regulations regarding hours of operation. In Canada, driver's may drive up to 13 hours in a 24 hour day. In the USA, driver's may drive up to 10 hours in a 24 hour day. Once those limits are reached, drivers are required to be off duty for 8 consecutive hours. There are other restrictions that Compass Coach Lines follows in order to ensure your safety which we can discuss prior to booking with us.
Q: Can we have food or drinks on the bus?
A: Yes you can. We want you to be comfortable throughout your time on our motor coaches. We ask that passengers be respectful of the clean environment we provide. We are proud of our recycling program and ask our passengers to recycle whatever possible.
Q: Can I smoke on the bus?
A: Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in order ensure everyone's comfort. Failure to comply will result in cancellation without refund.
Q: When do I need to pay for the charter?
A: We ask that groups pay prior to their travel date. We will explain deposit timelines and payment timelines when you request a quote.
Q: What's your cancellation policy?
A: We will provide you with all the details regarding refunds and cancellations when we provide you with a quote. We will continue to offer all of our customers a 100% refund should your trip be cancelled due to COVID-19 provincial health restrictions.
Safety
Q: What do you do to ensure the buses are safe?
A: We pride ourselves in ensuring that our motor coaches are safe and sanitary. We do regular preventative maintenance along with driver pre and post trip inspections. Our buses do not leave our facilities unless they are in safe working condition. We adhere to all government legislation and put your safety first.
Q: What happens if our bus breaks down?
A: Unfortunately break downs do occur. In the event of a breakdown, we will do everything we can to keep the customer inconvenience to a minimum. Our staff will quickly assess the issue and communicate the action plan with you. We have a network of certified repair facilities and tire shops that we trust and are available 24 hours a day. If the bus can't be repaired, we will provide your group with another bus as quickly as possible.
Q: What is your drug and alcohol policy?
A: All our drivers must participate in our drug and alcohol program. This program ensures your safety and it also ensures that we are compliant with US DOT regulations. We have a strict zero tolerance policy and drivers are strictly prohibited from operating any of our vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Amenities & Equipment
Q: What's the difference between a bus and a motor coach?
A: Motor coach and bus can often both be used when describing a large highway bus. Our equipment is modern and upgraded and not standard or basic, therefore we describe our vehicles as motor coaches. We're proud of our luxurious motor coaches and think that you'll enjoy all the extras we offer.
Q: Will the bus look like the ones on the website?
A: Absolutely! We only use accurate photos of our equipment because we're proud of what we have to offer. We don't need to post photos or information that doesn't represent exactly who and what we are. What you see is what you'll get, and we're sure you'll enjoy.
Q: What are some of the bus's amenities?
A: Compass Coach Lines buses are upgraded and sophisticated. They feature all the equipment you would find on a standard bus but have countless additional amenities. These include comfortable reclining leather seats; hardwood floors; USB ports; flatscreen tvs; DVD player; AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereos; climate control; reading lights; enclosed overhead storage; a clean and modern lavatory and much, much more.
Q: Does the bus have a washroom?
A: Our motor coaches all feature lavatories that are clean and comfortable. They also have full flushing capabilities, which isn't the case on all buses. This ensures that there aren't any washroom odors. The facilities are emptied and cleaned using fresh water and environmentally friendly cleaning products prior to every trip.
Policies
Q: What happens if there's bad weather or road closures?
A: Our drivers and staff do as much planning as possible to foresee issues relating to weather however it is out of our control. We will always put our customers safety first and make all decisions with that in mind. We always communicate with our office staff and customer to ensure the right decision is made. We will not travel on any roadway that is closed.
Q: Do you charge cleaning fees?
A: We reserve the right to ask for a cleaning deposit of $250.00 if we feel one is needed based on the group and type of trip the bus is making. Customers are asked to respect the motor coach and follow all expectations regarding our smoking and vaping policies.
Q: Do you charge for damage to the bus caused by the renting group?
A: The group will be held responsible for any damages incurred during their charter including spills, burns, rips or tears or damage to monitors, curtain or shades, stereo or other equipment. The group agrees to pay for any damages, cleaning or replacement of parts + 25% when damage was caused by the group. The cost of the repair will be fully absorbed by the group for any acts of its members. In such a case, costs would be assessed and due to Compass Coach Lines immediately.
Q: Who pays for a hotel room for the driver?
A: To help with ease while planning, the renting group is required to book a hotel room for the driver. This will help ensure the driver is staying at the same property as the group. The cost of the room is not included in the charter quote as the group is required to make the arrangements and payment with the hotel.
Q: Do I pay for tolls, parking and other fees incurred during travel?
A: Yes, the group is required to pay for any fees incurred during their charter. These include, but aren't limited to, highway tolls, ferry costs, park passes, parking, etc. By providing us with your itinerary, we can help anticipate additional costs and provide help finding efficiencies.