Update !

Well we’re back home after our trip to the U.S..

In the end we went for the First Class service on the Acela & must say that we very impressed ^

Even though it was just a short journey, it was very enjoyable. The service at our seat was very well done indeed & we enjoyed the “Light Bites” & a beer as we speeded our way from PHL to NYP.

Our luggage wasn’t a problem even though the luggage rack was full, as we could store our bags on the floor, in what I would call the conductors station. (A little alcove with a desk & flip down seat)

The train looked quite busy / full as it pulled into PHL, but the First Car only had about a dozen or so people on board, with us & another couple getting on board at PHL.

Whenever we’re travelling between the cities served by the Acela along the NEC again, we will most definitely take the train & not even consider flying.

So thanks once again for all the advice offered in this thread in answer to my questions. All very much appreciated ^ ^