Bangkok to Hua Hin Train #43

What used to be a 5-hour journey from Bangkok to Hua Hin is now only 3 hours (on selected trains) because of the new dual track, so I thought I'd try it out to see how it goes.
We booked a ticket for the Bangkok-Surat Thani Sprinter Train #43, departing Bangsue Grand Station (Krungthep Apiwat Station) at 07.30 hrs., the scheduled arrival time in Hua Hin is 10.31 hrs. and the fare is Baht 330 per person.
The train was unfortunately delayed by 15 minutes, but I must say that everyone involved tries hard to keep the train on schedule, so praise goes to the SRT (State Railway of Thailand).
Hopefully with newer trains and the full completion of dual track, the journey will be reduced to 2 hours 30 minutes .... at least that's my dream.

[@markobrien6992]

We are doing this in a few months on the same train - but to Chumphon. Appreciate the info

[@PitanuBoonyaratvej]

Great, but I do suggest buying tickets in advance because the train only has 3 bogeys, and most often it gets sold out.

[@Biking360]

I've done this route a few times but always from the station a few hundred metres away. Just to clarify are all trains to Hua Hin and further down south now running from Bang Sue station?

[@PitanuBoonyaratvej]

You can also depart from Thon Buri station 2 times a day with the ordinary train, if you can bear the 4 hour 30 minutes journey.

[@dborg56]

Can you buy tickets for #43 online in advance or only at the station? If only at the station how much earlier do you need to be there?

[@PitanuBoonyaratvej]

You can book online via the SRT website

[@n.s.5456]

Is the train air conditioned ?

[@PitanuBoonyaratvej]

#43 only has air-conditioned cars.