The three BOB lines run on part of what was the Bayerischen Maximiliansbahn as a combined train-set from München Hauptbahnhof via the southern ring to Holzkirchen. In Holzkirchen the combined train-set separates with one train-set heading off to the east, running through Miesbach and Schliersee to Bayrischzell. The two remaining train-sets continue on to Schaftlach where they separate again, with one train-set going to Lenggries via Bad Tölz, while the last train-set heads off towards the southeast to Tegernsee. The Tegernsee Line makes use of the tracks owned by the Tegernsee-Bahn, a private rail infrastructure provider. The separate train-sets travel from München Hauptbahnhof to Holzkirchen or Schaftlach as a single train. They then split-up and travel on to their individual destinations. On the return trip to Munich the individual units are connected again and run as a single train back to München Hauptbahnhof. Between Holzkirchen and Munich BOB Trains run under the Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund tariff system. The Bayerische Oberland Bahn GmbH is a member of the "Tarifverband der Bundeseigenen und Nichtbundeseigenen Eisenbahnen in Deutschland".
History
BOB was founded on 31 March 1998 and began service the same year. The company was launched to create more competition on the rail systems of southern Bavaria. In the early days of service BOB trains were often plagued by technical problems with the new/untested Integraltrain set. These initial problems have since been resolved and BOB is now considered very reliable. Since the beginning of July 2004 BOB has added three Bombardier Talent Train-sets to cover rush hour service. BOB also operates on some DB electric lines under the Meridianbrand name, using FLIRT3electric multiple units from Stadler Rail.
BOB Lines are serviced at hourly/bi-hourly intervals, and with extra trains during rush hour. However, since December 2004 every other train/direction has had an increased journey time of 12 to 14 minutes. This contradicts the basic idea of a single Integrated Timetable.
Utilization
BOB Trains are not only highly used during weekdays, but also on the weekend by tourist and locals planning excursions to the Bavarian Alps, with walking, bike riding and skiing being favorite activities. Either a Bayern Ticket from Deutsche Bahn or a BOB weekend pass may be purchased for up to five passengers at a significantly discounted fare. Bus connections are available in Lenggries and Tegernsee to Karwendel, Achensee, Rofan and the Ski slopes on Wendelstein,, Brauneck, Spitzing.
