Even before 08.30 enthusiasts seeking that 'final ride' had started arriving at Brighton station although it was not until just after nine did the train start to rapidly fill with a travelling public many of whom were unawares of the train's significance. This was despite Southern's regular announcements both on-train and at stations en-route. Departure from Brighton was slightly late due to slow boarding. Racing through the South Downs the train made the correctly slow approach through platform 3 at Lewes and out beyond the junction with the lines from London to make the shunt move back into Lewes' platform 2 in readiness for the onward run to London. Although the train was respectably loaded the driver might have struggled to pass through the crowded leading two coaches which were described as being absolutely crammed with enthusiasts. As a consequence the reversal at Lewes took slightly longer than timetabled due to the driver having difficulty in walking through that part of the train.

The train departed Lewes 4 minutes late for Haywards Heath (platform 3) where many regular passengers let the adjacent Thameslink train leave in preference for the Vep stock. Perhaps their choice was not misplaced as the 09.19 was given the road at Copyhold Junction thus overtaking the Thameslink train. Gatwick Airport (platform 4) saw a prolonged stop leading to quite heavy loadings in the centre of the train with gangways becoming partially blocked with baggage whilst bemused airport passengers shuffled themselves along the train. This later led to difficulties with the refreshment trolley passing through the train but certainly drinks were available in the centre unit.

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